L'Autochtone Taverne Americaine: Celebrating Indigenous Culture Through Food

L'Autochtone Taverne Americaine: Celebrating Indigenous Culture Through Food
Apr 06, 2023
by Alex Ivey

(Update: sadly this restaurant is officially closed) Nestled in the small town of Haileybury, Ontario, L'Autochtone Taverne Americaine is a restaurant that is quickly making a name for itself in the Canadian culinary scene. Owned and operated by Gerry Brandon and Nancy Cassidy, this cosy eatery is a reflection of Brandon's life experience and his passion for exploring new flavors and ingredients.

Brandon, who is from Dokis First Nation but grew up with his adopted family in New Liskeard, has had an extensive career working in some of Canada's best restaurants. He returned to northern Ontario shortly before the pandemic to open an urban style bar and grill restaurant quite unlike any other in the region.

The menu at L'Autochtone Taverne Americaine is a fusion of English, French, and Indigenous cuisines, reflecting Brandon's background and his love for exploring new flavors. The restaurant sources many of its ingredients from local farms and suppliers, ensuring that every meal is fresh and unique. The menu changes regularly based on the availability of ingredients, and the chef's creativity, ensuring that guests always have something new to try.

The restaurant's welcoming atmosphere adds to the dining experience. Housed in a historic building that Gerry and Nancy beautifully restored, the restaurant features comfortable seating areas and a small bar where guests can enjoy a drink before or after their meal. The outdoor patio is also a great spot to enjoy the charming scenery of Haileybury.

One of the standout dishes to try at L'Autochtone Taverne Americaine is the roast garlic frybread with black truffle herb butter. Other popular dishes include the local beef burger, served on a brioche bun with a side of haystack fries and lemon pepper mayo, bison poutine, and rotating pastas with local vegetables and braised meat. The bar offers a selection of Ontario craft beers and wines, and creative cocktails.

L'Autochtone Taverne Americaine has become a hub of activity with the locals and is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through the Temiskaming Shores area. With its delicious food, welcoming atmosphere, and celebration of Indigenous culture, it's a unique spot in Northern Ontario's culinary scene. Whether you're in the mood for a classic burger or a creative Indigenous-inspired dish, this restaurant is sure to deliver a memorable dining experience.