Côté Est

The story

Côté Est in Kamouraska, Saint-Pascal – Bib Gourmand Canadian Cuisine

Côté Est · Cuisiniers de Nature

Since 2012, Côté Est has evolved from a small village café into a vibrant hub for the best of the Bas-Saint-Laurent. Founded by Perle Morency and chef Kim Côté, the restaurant’s purpose remains clear: to showcase the products of the East, celebrating Quebec’s culinary and cultural heritage. This dedication to local, thoughtful cooking recently earned the restaurant a Bib Gourmand from the Michelin Guide, a recognition of good quality, good value cooking that feels right at home here.

The team describes themselves as "Cuisiniers de Nature" – cooks of nature. Chef Kim Côté is the adventurer of the duo, foraging the territory to uncover forgotten traditions and fine local ingredients. A hunter and fisherman since childhood, he can often be found grilling on the terrace or tending the smoker. Perle Morency is the gathering soul, welcoming guests as if into her home and weaving together a family of local producers, a passionate team, and diners around a shared love for the table.

Their sourcing philosophy is clear: "local" means choosing the shortest possible supply chain for each ingredient. Vegetables come from neighbouring Kamouraska farms, seafood from the Gaspé and Îles-de-la-Madeleine, and even caviar from New Brunswick. The kitchen champions seasonal, sustainable ingredients, working with foragers for wild mushrooms and berries, and partnering with producers who respect the land.

The dining experience takes several forms. The Buvette offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with seafood and fish from the St. Lawrence, local meats, market vegetables, natural wines, and good small plates. A seasonal Cantina, open from late June, provides a more casual, festive terrace with an unbeatable view, serving simple dishes like oysters, spaghetti with local seafood, and a decadent mortadella sandwich – no reservation required. A gourmet boutique and caviste allows guests to take a taste of the region home.

For those seeking adventure, Côté Est also organizes culinary experiences like MycoMigrateur, a deep dive into the world of wild mushrooms. Whether at a table in the Buvette or on the Cantina’s libertarian terrace, the spirit is the same: a celebration of the St. Lawrence, its people, and its flavours.