Canadian Diner Axes 'Poutine' Dish Following Russian Invasion Of Ukraine

In a small, symbolic act of defiance to support Ukraine against the Moscow invasion, a Quebec restaurant has taken their beloved ‘poutine’ dish off the menu to denounce Russian President Vladimir Putin.

As Russian forces intensify their assault in Ukraine, it’s prompted Le Roy Jucep - the diner that is widely considered the birthplace of poutine - to rename the French-Canadian dish in protest of the war.

A Facebook post stated they would be rebranding the dish, changing the name to “la frite fromage sauce”.

The Drummondville eatery confirmed they would axe the name due to it being phonetically similar to the Russian president's name.

“Dear clients and friends, this evening, the Jucep team has chosen to temporarily remove the word ‘p**tine’ from its trademark in order to express, in its own way, its deep dismay at the situation in Ukraine," they said in a statement.

The post also revealed Le Roy Jucep would be changing their logo to the colours of the Ukraine flag under the new slogan, “the inventor of the fry cheese gravy.”

However, the post was taken down as the Quebec restaurant began receiving death threats over the phone shortly after the announcement.

Le Roy Jucep said on social media that didn’t want their acclaimed french-fry dish to be affiliated with the disgraced Russian leader; instead, they wish to bring ‘joy’ to their customers.

“Our dish was born in Quebec in the 1950s. And the stories to tell its origin are numerous. But one thing is certain: poutine was created by passionate cooks who wanted to bring joy and comfort to their customers.

“The House of Poutine has worked since its first day to perpetuate these values and today brings its most sincere support to the Ukrainian people who are courageously fighting for their freedom against the tyrannical Russian regime.”

However, Le Roy Jucep isn’t the only business boycotting associated with Russian products.

Many bars and restaurants are also cutting ties with the Eastern European country showing support for Ukraine. 

A few days ago, Bar group Arc Inspirations, which runs 18 sites across the north of England, revealed that they have dumped Russian vodka from their bar menu in solidarity with Ukraine.

Hundreds of other bars have since followed suit.

McDonald’s, PepsiCo, as well as other fast-food companies are also being urged by political leaders to suspend business with Russia.

It was reported by Reuters that in the letters from New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, he stated: "significant and growing legal, compliance, operational, human rights and personnel, and reputational risks,"

He hopes that big brands discontinuing business with Russia will help further isolate them as they face a crumbling economy.

He added: “It would also play a key role in "condemning Russia's role in fundamentally undermining the international order," he added.”