Leopold's Tavern — Review by Randy Santel

The Dishes

The main event is Leopold's Tavern's legendary Canadian Punchbowl Challenge, an 8 lb behemoth of poutine consisting of 5 lb of hand-cut fries, a full liter of gravy, and generous portions of cheese curds. The poutine is layered lasagna-style with alternating layers of potatoes, gravy, and cheese, creating a massive presentation. Randy opted for the traditional variety with brown gravy rather than the specialty flavors like dill pickle or buffalo chicken available that week. He praised the cheese curds as very good quality and loved the cheese pull and gravy combination, noting the poutine stayed hot throughout the challenge. For dessert, he enjoyed the Malcolm cookies deep-fried cheesecake topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, and crushed Oreos with a gooey cheesecake center. He also sampled two beers during the experience: a Kitsilano juicy IPA to honor the neighborhood, and a Bellhop porter from Abandon Rails Brewery to pair with dessert.

The Experience

The challenge took place in a private room at Leopold's Tavern in the Kitsilano area of Vancouver, providing better lighting for filming. The restaurant has around 27 locations across Western Canada and has been running this specific challenge for about 12 years. While the punchbowl is typically ordered by groups with separate serving dishes provided, Randy tackled it individually. The atmosphere was positive and supportive, with the restaurant providing a gift bag and t-shirt in addition to the standard prizes of a pin and spot on the wall of fame.

Value & Pricing

The challenge costs 59 Canadian dollars plus tax, payable whether you win or lose. This is a pay-to-play format where completion earns you a spot on the wall of fame. The price point is reasonable for the massive quantity of food provided and the novelty of attempting a well-known challenge at an established restaurant chain.

Notable Moments

I freaking love poutine. I think this is only like my second actual poutine challenge that I am attempting in all of my years of doing food challenges.

Randy completed the challenge in approximately 15 minutes and 6 seconds, nearly matching the time of his friend Adam Moran from BeardMeatsFood who had attempted a smaller 4 lb version years earlier in Calgary. He was attempting to finish in under 25 minutes to inspire his companion Katina to try the challenge next. The bottom of the bowl remained surprisingly hot throughout, catching Randy off guard partway through the eating process.

The Verdict

Leopold's Tavern offers an impressive poutine challenge that delivers on quality, portion size, and the authentic Canadian experience. While primarily known for this punchbowl challenge and their burgers, the restaurant features a massive menu with various appetizers, drinks, and dessert options. Randy's recommendation is clear: whether attempting the challenge or not, groups can split this massive poutine and enjoy a satisfying meal. The restaurant is best for those seeking an iconic Vancouver food challenge experience or anyone wanting to try high-quality traditional Canadian poutine with excellent hand-cut fries and quality cheese curds.