ESPRIT DE CANTINE

Every summer, all over Quebec, they’re favourite hangouts for locals and passing tourists. Called cantines or casse-croûtes, these small seasonal businesses are often run by passionate folks who have made it their mission to preserve this distinctive slice of Quebec culture. Nicolas Paquet takes a close look at two of them: Chez Mimi in Saint-Alexandre-de-Kamouraska and Le Connaisseur in Tadoussac. With Micheline and Nathalie’s testimonials set to a soundtrack by Fred Fortin, Esprit de cantine captures the unique atmosphere of these gathering places and wonders what the future holds for them in the face of stiff competition from major fast-food chains.