
Bucket List: Discover Le PRESBYTÈRE Microbrewery!
A Hidden Treasure in the Heart of Mauricie
While the Mauricie region may not be a bucket list destination or the first place that comes to mind for Quebec cuisine enthusiasts, Microbrasserie Le Presbytère, nestled in the quaint village of Saint-Stanislas-de-Champlain, stands out as a beacon, proudly showcasing the culinary and brewing delights of the area. Housed within the historic walls of the former presbytery, it offers a unique experience, blending refined cuisine with artisanal beers of exquisite intricacies. Here’s why Microbrasserie Le Presbytère simply deserves a spot on your bucket list!
An Authentic Gourmet Getaway
Patrons are in for an authentic gourmet adventure within a vibrant ambiance filled with architectural and historical charm! Chef Isabelle Dupuis invites us to savour rustic yet daring cuisine. The menu, highlighting regional flavours, perfectly harmonizes with the meticulously craft beers brewed on-site by her partner, Francis Boisvert. Refined and diverse cuisine, alongside artisanal brews, is just the beginning at Microbrasserie Le Presbytère. Its cozy boutique unveils a treasure of local delights, while its terrace treats guests to a stunning view of the Batiscan River. Adjacent, Auberge du Presbytère offers charming accommodations. A favourite among foodies, Brewery Route (Route des Brasseurs) enthusiasts, and rustic cuisine aficionados, could this be Quebec’s hidden gem?
An Exceptional Historical Setting
Constructed in 1873, the building that now shelters the microbrewery stands as a poignant testament to earlier times. Its walls exhibit a venerable architectural style of remarkable distinction. Expanded in 1908 to provide quarters for the clergy accompanying the Bishop, the presbytery later served as a residence for nuns until 2006.
An Inspiring Metamorphosis
Isabelle and Francis, pioneers of the first Fourchette Bleue
-certified establishment in the Mauricie region and esteemed champions of locally sourced products, courageously embarked, alongside their family, on an ambitious venture: to metamorphose an ancient presbytery steeped in history into a welcoming and innovative microbrewery. After acquiring it in October 2015, they dedicated a full year to its transformation into an unparalleled dining destination.
As Visual Arts graduates from UQTR, the owners unleashed their creative vision to elevate the materials of this historic building. Mezzanine floors were repurposed into pub wall coverings, while floorboards became shelves, displaying an impressive array of beer bottles. The lounge upstairs, embellished with antique armchairs from the J.-Antonio Thompson Hall in Trois-Rivières, has been transformed into an exhibition space for local artists. Genuine authenticity and creative ingenuity echo throughout…
A Celebration of Local Produces
Isabelle and Francis stress the significance of prioritizing Canadian terroir products, notably by curating wines from local vineyards for their menu. Their gin bar features a diverse array of 100% Quebec gins, offering patrons a distinctive tasting journey.
Renowned for its cuisine, which draws inspiration from both local ingredients and the bounties of the surrounding forests, Le Presbytère’s menu boasts a diverse array of culinary treasures. From seafood delicacies to forest delights like maple syrup and water, sea buckthorn berries, honey, and forest spices, each dish reflects Le Presbytère’s dedication to showcasing Quebec’s terroir. Whether crafted with samphire or wild mushrooms, every offering highlights the essence of the region. As for preferences, the team at 1001 Fondues is unanimous in their praise of the trout tartare, declaring it unparalleled in Mauricie, and possibly beyond!
An Innovative Microbrewery
An active participant in the Aliments du Québec program and the “Je bois local” (I drink local) movement (we highly recommend the “Je bois local” pass), Microbrasserie Le Presbytère opened its doors in 2017. Initially offering a modest selection of four or five beers, it has since expanded to an impressive range of 14 beers brewed on-site. This selection includes special seasonal brews infused with the unique flavours of local ingredients such as cucumber, honey, and rose water. Crafted with meticulous care and artisanal expertise by Francis, these beers are made from 90% Mauricie-grown grains, complemented by a variety of Quebec hops.
And What About Cheese Fondue?
At 1001 Fondues, our appreciation for beer extends far beyond its role alongside cheese fondue. We’ve cultivated a discerning taste for NEIPAs, those intricate and sometimes heavenly brews that embody the brewing tradition of New England. Our latest fixation? None other than Le Presbytère’s “Mountain Bike” beer. As Francis explains, it draws direct inspiration from the renowned “Heady Topper” crafted by the legendary brewery “The Alchemist in Stowe, Vermont. With Francis’s dedication (thanks, Francis!) and a few hours of ultra-creative culinary experimentation, we’ve concocted the perfect terroir fondue, aptly named “Fondue À la NEIPA.”
Recognition and Awards
Over the years, Microbrasserie Le Presbytère has received numerous prestigious awards, including recognition for “highlighting Quebec’s seafood products.” As finalists for the *Aliments du Québec au menu award in 2023, the owners were honoured for their commitment to sourcing locally.
*The Aliments du Québec au menu program recognizes restaurants that promote Quebec products on their menus.
Here’s to an Enchanting Local Tale!
Microbrasserie Le Presbytère unveils a hidden gem in the heart of Mauricie, showcasing the culinary and brewing treasures of the Canadian terroir. It captivates visitors with its ambiance and delightful menu offerings. Its commitment to local products has earned prestigious awards, reaffirming its dedication to Quebec’s culinary excellence. Here’s to an enchanting local tale! Cheers to the entire team at Le Presbytère!