Grade: A
Tucked away on the east end of Middle Street inside an old brick building is a tiny restaurant with a unique flair added to their cuisine. Their reasonable prices and warm atmosphere make them a favored lunch spot among Old Port workers. The restaurant is called Duckfat, and the name says it all.
Before crinkling your nose in disgust at the image that the name may call to mind, understand that their name comes from how they cook their Belgian Fries – a slightly fresher and crispier version of French Fries. Duckfat adds their own twist to Belgian Fries by frying them in (you guessed it) duck fat. For those that have high cholesterol levels, this is actually a healthier alternative to normal French Fries, as duck fat is lower in cholesterol than most oils. These dark fries are then served in the traditional white paper cone with an assortment of dipping sauces, from the usual ketchup, to more exotic tastes such as Thai Chili Mayo.
Fans of Canadian cuisine will be thrilled to know that Duckfat serves poutine, a unique spin on everyday French fries. Poutine traditionally consists of French fries, topped with cheese and then covered in gravy. For those who have not tried poutine before, this may sound strange, even gross, but it’s actually delicious and a favorite (albeit unhealthy) meal for many people. Duckfat covers their Belgian fries with Silver Moon Creamery cheese curd and then adds their own homemade duck gravy. Salt lovers, you may want to order a second helping. Duckfat’s spin on poutine is particularly salty. The portions are not huge, but they don’t need to be. Their food so filling that most diners will find themselves getting full after a few fries. Likewise, their paninis will keep you filled well after your school or work day is done.
For breakfast eaters, Duckfat offers toast and jam, but not the same kind you make at home. They grill brioche, a sweet French bread with a flaky texture. For most people, it is more similar to a pastry than the thin slices of Wonderbread most throw into their toasters. This is sprinkled with powdered sugar, and only then is the jam added. Duckfat also serves Coffee by Design brewed in a french press, giving their coffee an extra rich flavor.
Fair warning: this restaurant is the quintessential hole-in-the-wall. They have limited seating, with two outdoor tables, a few indoor tables and a long bar along the far right wall. Those who are seated at the bar will enjoy playing with the magnetic wall that runs above it. This long, black, sheet of metal has magnets with a number of words on them for customers to amuse themselves with as they wait for their food to arrive. The great thing about such a small restaurant is the home-like atmosphere. Duckfat’s comfortable, inviting atmosphere is one of the things that keep their clientele coming back for more.