© C. Labonté
Photo: Tourisme Outaouais
Gourmet destinations to ring in the spring
Published on April 22, 2026
Oh, how I’ve waited impatiently for this time of year! Haven’t you? Nature’s waking up, ready to seduce you with fresh, inventive cuisine in the heart of the Outaouais. From sunny patios and luxurious restaurants to small coffee breaks and sports outings, each bite brings you into the ever-changing spirit of the season. Good food: there's no better way to cheer up! Here are some ideas to make the most of spring and its gourmet pleasures.
FRESHNESS IS ON THE MENU
Enjoy meals featuring the freshest local products and let yourself be inspired by the balance between gourmet cuisine and nature in full bloom.
Photo: Camille Labonté
Ferme Juniper Farm
This fall, Juniper Farm Café reopens with its “farm-to-table” concept. Order at the outdoor window and enjoy your meal on-site in the picnic area. You’ll enjoy healthy dishes prepared with organic vegetables harvested right on the farm. Try their selection of sandwiches and salads! Gluten-free and vegan options are also available.
Where
375 Chemin Shouldice, La Pêche
When
The café is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the same hours as the farm supply store.
OLIVIA BISTRO-BOUTIQUE
Olivia Bistro-Boutique has six other locations in the Outaouais region. Stop by for a fresh meal or choose from a variety of salads and tacos.
Where
901 Boulevard Saint-Joseph, Gatineau
Halte gourmande - Courge et cie
When you visit Courge et cie, be sure to stop by the Bistro fermier, where dishes are carefully prepared using produce harvested right here on the farm. Discover creative, artisanal cuisine that showcases local ingredients. We have a soft spot for the squash poutine!
Where
59 Chemin Myre, Gatineau
When
The Bistro is open from May 15 to October 31, Friday through Sunday.
Roberto Pizza Romana
Located in the heart of Chelsea, this cozy pizzeria will transport you to Italy in an instant. Made with sourdough dough, aged cheeses, seasonal vegetables, and local ingredients, their focaccias are sure to impress! Finish your meal with a delicious cannoli or homemade tiramisu.
Where
241 Chemin Old Chelsea, Chelsea
Maison Oddo
The perfect spot for an impromptu picnic! This bakery and pastry shop creates high-quality goods using local ingredients. Try their delicious homemade bread, pastries, pizzas, or decadent desserts. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a coffee break, or a special celebration, they’ll satisfy your cravings.
Where
260 Boulevard Saint-Raymond, Gatineau
Naturally Véro
Enjoy a variety of seasonal vegan drinks and dishes, made with fresh ingredients. Perfect for a quick bite or a full meal.
Where
58 Chemin Old Chelsea Chelsea
SUNNY DAYS ON PATIOS
Who says you need to wait for summer to eat outside? With a light coat, you can enjoy the region's most beautiful patios while sipping colourful cocktails and eating delicious dishes as summer approaches. Spring is a sign that warmer weather is on the way and gives a fine taste of the hours of fun to be had chatting with family and friends.
THE ART OF COFFEE BREAKS
Can you already smell the coffee and pastries that herald the start of a beautiful spring day? Take some time for yourself in the little local cafés that’ll welcome you with open arms. Who knows, maybe you’ll make friends with the professionals and learn how to be a real barista yourself!
WHERE SPORTS THRIVE
Spring in sports mode! Restaurants in the Outaouais transform into sanctuaries for great sports action. Big screens will show the most eagerly awaited matches and emotions will run high. Between tasty bites and refreshments, bonds are forged, rivalries awakened and memories made.
VEGAN AND VEGETARIAN OPTIONS
If you only swear by vegetarian and vegan restaurants, you’ll find a fine selection of unique dishes, such as the famous cupcakes with a plant-based “buttercream” frosting at Pastel & Coco or the Buffalo Mac N “Cheese” with homemade vegan cheese and the tofu fried chicken from Astoria. The Moca Loca Café also offers a variety of sandwiches like the vegan chickpea wrap and herbivore panini. Sometimes, you need choices! + Do you have a super sweet tooth? You’ll fall in love with the restaurants offering a brunch menu or even some sweets and pastries made in the region with love. How can you resist? Bon appétit!
Karol-Ann Scott
Outaouais, my little corner of paradise where I grew up and which I have the pleasure of introducing to you. My little pleasures: Local gastronomy, a good glass of wine around a warm fire and little hidden treasures, both cozy and unusual, which allow me to escape. Without forgetting the breathtaking landscapes of the waterways, which add a touch of magic to our beautiful region. Why not enjoy it ? Come take a look!
