From Château Frontenac to les-de-la-Madeleine: a chef arrives with his girlfriend, her cat and her trailer for a new adventure

Working for Château Frontenac for six years, the chef decided to step out of his comfort zone and try the Magdalen Islands adventure at Cap-aux-Grindstones’ famous Quai 360 Kitchen.

“I bought a trailer with my girlfriend, took my cat under my arms and went on an adventure,” laughs Samuel Roy, who officially experienced a baptism of fire last Thursday as the restaurant reopened for the pre-season.

Because in order to become a full-time resident of the islands, the 30-year-old had to find a place to stay, which was no small task due to the housing crisis.

“The trailer, we’re very happy about that, it’s still hard to find a spot, and we’ll be staying with friends in the Gros-Cap area,” he says excited about the project.

girlfriend effect

Kamorska’s native admits that his girlfriend had a good influence on his decision. She visited this region last summer and, like many tourists, fell in love with the kindness of the people and the stunning landscape.

“She was a good salesperson. I found a job here in graphic design,” says Samuel, confirming that the couple is now ready for their new life.

For Quai 360 owners, hiring a chef is a first since opening in 2015.

“She’s our baby, we built her from the ground up and started looking for the next generation,” says Nathalie Meeus, who holds with her husband the bastion of the company whose motto is: local produce cooked with love.

Fishing at sea

Samuel Roy is part of the movement of a new generation of chefs that has emerged in recent years in Quebec.

Over the years, he has trained in many good restaurants in the old capital, including Lapin Sauté, Portofino and Atelier. These experiences allowed him to work in the Champlain restaurant at the Fairmont Château Frontenac with Stéphane Modat, from whom he learned and was able to draw inspiration.

Newly adopted Madelinot happily jumps at the idea of ​​cooking fresh produce from the Magdalen Islands.

He gloats, “We actually got an invitation to go sea fishing. It’s really motivating.”

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Quai 360 has been open since April 13 and will continue its activities until December. The restaurant has a seating capacity of 44 for two services in the evening from Monday to Friday. Guests are required to book in advance for the dining experience.