Maison du Bootlegger – a popular dining experience with a roguish history, in La Malbaie

Maison du Bootlegger

Owners Joey Tardif and Johanne Brassard are also partners in life

No visit to La Malbaie is complete without a lunch or dinner at Bootlegger, a legendary restaurant that operated as a speakeasy during the local clergy-determined prohibition period. Known as the Club des Monts, the house was purchased, dismantled and reassembled by American entrepreneur Norrie Seller, who owned twenty two hunting and fishing lodges in the Charlevoix area. The back story is fascinating, and a guided tour through the house’s secret passageways is a must. From the outside it looked like any other large farm house. Hidden in the attic, local professionals, business people and even the occasional priest enjoyed an evening of fine food, cocktails and wine. You’ll even see a signature by none other than Elvis Presley on one of the hidden passageways. His wife Priscilla Beaulieu had family members living across the river in the Kamouraska area.

Steaks, ribs and chicken are cooked on ‘secret’ grill built into the chimney

Seller operated the club from 1949 to 1979. The club is now owned and operated by Johanne Brassard and rock ‘n’ roller Joey Tardif, whose classic rock trio turns every night into a memorable party. The steaks are grilled on the same charcoal grill built into the chimney of secret upper room that Seller built. In addition to serving delicious meals, you can purchase their special Maison Bootlegger steak spice, BBQ sauce and salad dressing. We did and they’re refreshingly different from the regular nationally advertised brands. We discovered the Maison Bootlegger products are available locally in selected supermarkets. A hearty recommendation for great food, and a party-like atmosphere.  www.maisondubootlegger.com

Guests enter be going down a staircase and then back up to the hidden club

Elvis’ signature in a hidden passageway is protected by a glass frame.