For most, Rouyn-Noranda is ‘that mining town up north’, or ‘that remote Quebec city’. It’s where you pass through for work or glimpse rugged landscapes and even more rugged winters. But these restaurants make a case for a deliberate stop. The likes of local artists, prospectors, and hockey legends have dined here, and now you can add your name to that list.
Restaurant Olive Et Basil
$$ | (819) 797-6655 | WEBSITE
Somewhere between settling into the cozy, romantic atmosphere, receiving the first generous portion of a vegetarian dish, and finishing the last bite of a reasonably priced meal, you’ll realise this is some of the best value dining in Rouyn-Noranda. The attentive, friendly staff knows its crowd (those who welcome satisfying meals without breaking the bank) and duly delivers. Every visit and bite is like being welcomed to a satisfying experience by a team that makes dining enjoyable.
Boston Pizza
$$ | (819) 797-0086 | WEBSITE
Nestled in the heart of the city, this popular spot serves up satisfying comfort food with just the right amount of variety. Think: hearty pizzas, fresh salads, and gluten-free pasta options. The service is attentive, the mood is set to ‘relax’, and the outdoor patio has ample seating (a win). Come for family dinners, casual gatherings, or simply to enjoy the summer breeze away from the downtown bustle.
Horizon Thaï
$$ | (819) 762-4060 | WEBSITE
Horizon Thaï is from the same people as the best spots in town, and just like its popular, praised, and spice-fuelled counterparts, this Thai restaurant is a place to enjoy in. It’s a welcoming take on Southeast Asian dining, with clean tables throughout the room, lively chatter filling the air, and enough vegetarian options to make a plant-based enthusiast smile. The food is the main attraction, and that really matters because you’re here for the flavor.
Patate Pierrot
$ | (819) 762-7105 | WEBSITE
This Quebec-inspired spot is a casual eatery where you’ll find an excellently messy, cheese-curd-filled poutine that’ll leave your fingers greasy and your stomach satisfied. The walls and counters are simply decorated with local memorabilia and vintage photos, and there are small TV screens that switch between hockey highlights and cooking shows.
It’s the type of restaurant that you can head to for a quick in-and-out lunch, or happily spend an entire evening enjoying their generous portions of jollof rice with chicken or griot rice.
Noranda Pizzeria
$$ | (819) 762-1888 | WEBSITE
Tucked away inside a gas station, Noranda Pizzeria offers surprisingly excellent food and lunch specials that are simply satisfying. Its unassuming spot is quick and welcoming all at once, with bright lighting and a straightforward menu featuring pizza, poutine, and homemade soups you’ll want to devour. When we stopped by, the classic pepperoni pizza with a crispy crust and a rich, savory tomato sauce stood out.
Allô mon Coco Rouyn-Noranda
$$ | (819) 764-4419 | WEBSITE
Rouyn-Noranda is to brunch what Sunday morning is to coffee. All locals are going to pass through here at some point, and when you do, head to Allô mon Coco. This favorite spot has an excellent menu of classics like eggs and bacon and deluxe chocolate waffles. But this place really comes into its own when indulging, with generous portions and exquisite eggs, plus a beautiful setting which makes it prime casual weekend material.
Pizzé
$$ | (819) 797-4461 | WEBSITE
Slicing into the tender, charred tentacles of the grilled octopus at Pizzé, a downtown Italian spot, is the most indulgent we’ve ever felt eating seafood. The whole restaurant is like a cozy neighborhood gem come to life. Come for lunch for excellent starters like crispy calamari and fresh Caesar salad with creamy dressing.
In the evenings, tables fill up with glasses of robust red wine and simple but elegant dishes: the delicious tiramisu and pizza topped with savory toppings, best eaten hot and fresh.
La Semence Alimentation Saine
$$ | (819) 762-8918 | WEBSITE
La Semence Alimentation Saine is a cozy health food spot that’s perfect for introducing friends to the joys of wholesome grains, fresh coffee beans, and bulk candies. The storefront area is nice, but the welcoming café section at the back is where the real charm is. La Semence’s a little pricey, but for the quality, and a few steaming cups of coffee and pastries, it’s worth the cost and it’s especially good for a casual catch-up.
Bar O 69
$$ | (819) 762-6929 | WEBSITE
Rouyn-Noranda has some pretty nice dining spots where you don’t have to break the bank for a good meal. Bar O 69 serves up excellent comfort food at a decent price, and it also comes with some genuinely friendly service. Expect your dishes to be served with anything from warm smiles to attentive check-ins to helpful recommendations—things that sound simple, but actually make the whole experience brilliant.
Habaneros Grill Mexicain
$ | (819) 762-8226 | WEBSITE
If vegetarian options are what you’re after in your Mexican food, Habaneros Grill Mexicain’s menu has got you covered. This reliable spot has what we like to refer to as ‘the sofrito switch’. Flip the sofrito switch and your tofu dish, served with beans and vegetables, will also get a generous topping of fresh guacamole. We very much like it, and it’s a really satisfying and affordable place to know about in Rouyn-Noranda.
Deuxparquatre, Pub Brut
$$ | (819) 797-2119 | WEBSITE
Deuxparquatre, Pub Brut is a raw, unusual pub that makes you feel automatically authentic. It’s a great place to go when you’re hoping to get a fun meal with your beer. Or in Deuxparquatre’s case, your local craft brew or crisp lager. If it’s on the menu, it’s crucial you get the squid at dinnertime. The tender seafood has a perfect balance between the simple, fresh preparation and savory dipping sauce.
Samiyo Rouyn-Noranda
$ | (819) 797-3113 | WEBSITE
Samiyo is a small, vibrant sushi spot tucked away in a shopping center, but you wouldn’t know it. Things here are pretty straightforward. It’s a place where you could grab takeout with your hungry friends or curious kids without fuss. The food is excellent overall: get the sushi, any of the poke bowls, and make sure you try at least one of their bubble teas. The prices are reasonable, with most combos around $15-$20, and the bright, clean interior makes for a cheerful pit stop.
It’s the kind of spot that feels both unassuming and exactly right for a quick, satisfying meal.
Toujours Mikes
$$ | (819) 762-2393 | WEBSITE
Toujours Mikes has solved the classic puzzle of how to be a beloved local spot while still feeling fresh and exciting. The secret? Offer an impressively wide range of menu choices that somehow manages to please everyone, all while maintaining that clean, welcoming atmosphere that makes families and groups feel right at home.
Friendly and attentive, it’s ideal for celebrating those special birthdays, enjoying a casual family meal, or catching up with friends who just want good food and great service.
La Caillette
$ | WEBSITE
La Caillette is the sweet and even more casual cousin to Patate Pierrot. The treats take after its neighbor with plenty of delicious, consistently satisfying ice cream—like creamy vanilla swirls, rich chocolate scoops, fruity sorbets—but the frozen desserts are never overly fancy. And it’s another great spot for anyone looking to dip their toes into dessert dining, but without the high cost or long wait.
Pub Goût Gueule
$$ | (819) 797-6000 | WEBSITE
Pub Goût Gueule is that rarest of casual pubs—one that makes you forget about the ‘pub food’ label entirely. It’s welcoming, vibrant, and hums with a confidence that can only be achieved when you know how to make Burger Nachos this generous and flawless. It’s a meal best enjoyed without hesitation and the menu stays reliably consistent, but know that the large selection of cocktails, burgers, and pizza is all hits, no duds.
There’s a focused menu at lunch, but we prefer the evening visit thanks to our enduring appreciation for beautiful group tables and Pub Goût Gueule’s exceptional, friendly service. It’s one of Rouyn-Noranda’s best restaurants.
Resto La Cuivrée
$ | (819) 762-8111 | WEBSITE
Resto La Cuivrée is a delicious and satisfying take on a local favorite. The dining area is Abitibi’s usual mix of hungry regulars and those just discovering the place, while the overall atmosphere gives off an energy that mixes cozy comfort and straightforward enjoyment. The fast service will very much encourage you to try the 24 Oz Italian Poutine and order the cheeseburger with bacon—don’t resist. Resto La Cuivrée isn’t just tasty, it’s also extremely enjoyable.
Resto/Bar à vin Le Cellier
$$ | (819) 762-2341 | WEBSITE
We like to visit Le Cellier for the kind of dining experience that feels special and well-crafted. It’s pleasant and you can always count on great service, and the food is impressive and cooked to perfection. There are a wide selection of dishes if you’re celebrating, and don’t miss the attentive waitresses, who are friendly and speak multiple languages.
Valentine
$ | (819) 762-2162 | WEBSITE
Valentine is perfect for anyone who’s curious about authentic Quebecois comfort food they’ve heard about, but doesn’t want to commit to a fancy dining experience. Order from the straightforward menu of hearty classics—a satisfying poutine with all the fixings is around $15, and there’s a heartier combo meal with drink for dinner. The traditional Quebecois food is delicious and satisfying.
Think golden fries smothered in rich gravy and squeaky cheese curds, or a perfectly cooked burger with crispy bacon and melted cheddar.
Chez Morasse
$ | (819) 762-6666 | WEBSITE
Just down the street from other family-friendly spots, we prefer this casual poutine joint for a quick lunch or hearty dinner, and you can customize your own loaded poutine creations. Our go-to order is the classic poutine with fresh, crispy fries, perfect cheese curds, and delicious gravy. Add a couple of favorites on the side, like the Angus poutine or the 7e ciel special, and take a seat in the playroom area at the back.
