On This Page You Will Find
- How newcomers saved a cherished Quebec poutinerie
- The journey of Carlos Sodji and Sylviane Senou from Benin to Quebec
- Community support for immigrant entrepreneurs
- How the couple gives back through food and generosity
- The role of immigration in preserving local traditions
Rouyn-Noranda, a northern Quebec town of about 42,000 people, almost lost a cherished part of its culinary identity when Chez Morasse faced closure. The longtime owner, strained by the pandemic, was ready to retire. For locals, it meant more than losing a restaurant – it meant losing an institution.
That was when newcomers Carlos Sodji and Sylviane Senou stepped in. Originally from Benin, the couple saw an opportunity to keep a piece of Quebec’s cultural heritage alive. They purchased the poutinerie in 2022 and set out to preserve its traditions while adding their own creative touch.
From Benin to Quebec – And Into the Heart of a Community
Moving to Rouyn-Noranda was not an obvious choice, but it became home for Carlos and Sylviane. They built a life, embraced Quebec culture and saw poutine not just as food but as a symbol of belonging.
Employees and customers alike praised their courage. “It’s very courageous to save a restaurant with so much tradition behind it,” said employee Léanne Rouillard. Many in the community admitted they could not have imagined taking on the responsibility themselves.
More Than Just Poutine – A Commitment to Community
Carlos and Sylviane did more than rescue a menu of fries, cheese curds and gravy. They introduced new flavours, honoured the restaurant’s history and gave back generously.
They donate leftover food to a local shelter and hosted Ukrainian newcomers for a free poutine dinner to help them feel welcome. For regulars like Judicaël Osse, the poutinerie’s survival means both comfort food and community connection.
“The Québécois people here celebrate our success,” says Sylviane. “It shows how food can bring people together.”
Looking Ahead
Today, Chez Morasse thrives again under the stewardship of its immigrant owners. Their dream is to share poutine beyond Quebec – across Canada and even internationally.
Their story shows how immigration strengthens traditions rather than replacing them. By stepping in at a critical moment, Carlos and Sylviane have become part of Quebec’s story – proof that newcomers enrich communities in countless ways.
FAQ
Why was Chez Morasse at risk of closing?
The restaurant struggled during the pandemic, and the longtime owner was ready to retire. Without new ownership, the poutinerie would likely have shut its doors permanently.
Who are Carlos Sodji and Sylviane Senou?
They are an immigrant couple from Benin who moved to Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec. In 2022, they bought Chez Morasse to preserve an important local food tradition.
How did the community react to the takeover?
Locals welcomed the couple with open arms, praising their courage in saving a restaurant that many considered an institution in Rouyn-Noranda.
What community contributions have they made?
Beyond running the poutinerie, they donate food to shelters and hosted a free dinner for Ukrainian newcomers, introducing them to Quebec culture through poutine.
What are their future plans?
Carlos and Sylviane dream of expanding beyond Rouyn-Noranda by bringing poutine to other parts of Canada and possibly introducing it abroad.
