Off the Menu: Cottage Time Public House
Story and photo by Jack Barten
Close your eyes a moment and visualize a scenario: you’re driving back from a pumpkin picking trip, and you decide you absolutely need a breakfast delight. Then you see a true miracle on Highway 61 in the form of Cottage Time Public House, with their all-day breakfast and the subject of this month’s Off the Menu—the breakfast poutine.
Made up of two eggs, hash browns, bacon bits, green onion, diced tomato, shredded cheese, and hollandaise sauce, this poutine has it all. First, the hash browns are well-seasoned flavour bombs that stand out in every bite, with a golden crunch and notes of salt, pepper, and paprika establishing the perfect base for the other components. The bacon bits add a smoky edge and satisfying bite that are always welcome. On a breakfast poutine, the execution of the egg is critical for maximum enjoyment. Here, we have a fried egg cooked to perfection, with a fluffy texture and yolky middle adding a richness you’ll crave. A blend of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese brings the next decadent piece of the puzzle; the sharpness of the cheddar pairs perfectly with the spiced hash browns, while the creamier mozzarella supports the yolky flavour, creating a true Canadian poutine harmony.
But this isn’t just an indulgent breakfast—we also have vegetables to add freshness. The diced tomato offers juiciness to keep things light, while the green onion cuts through with a clean, bright note. Last but certainly not least, hollandaise sauce acts as the poutine’s “gravy.” It’s buttery and rich without being overpowering or heavy, tying all the flavours together for the same comforting effect as everyone’s favourite poutine.
Often when you go down Highway 61, you’re going on an adventure, be it to a hike or a scenic farm visit. But with this breakfast poutine, Cottage Time gives you an even better reason to drive down and enjoy a hearty breakfast.
Cottage Time Public House
1725 Hwy 61, Unit 2
807-577-5806