#ImmigrationMatters in Rouyn-Noranda, Québec – Saving an iconic poutinerie

Rouyn-Noranda, Québec

When a beloved poutinerie faced closure, Carlos Sodji and Sylviane Senou stepped in—saving a slice of culinary heritage. Now, they’re giving back to the community that welcomed them, showing how immigration strengthens local traditions.

Saving an iconic poutinerie

April 25, 2025

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For decades, Chez Morasse had been a staple in Rouyn-Noranda, Québec—a place where locals gathered over steaming plates of golden fries, squeaky cheese curds and rich gravy. But by 2022, the cherished poutinerie was at risk of disappearing forever. The pandemic had taken a toll, and the longtime owner was ready for retirement. The doors were about to close for good.

Then, Sylviane Senou and Carlos Sodji walked in—not as customers, but as its unexpected saviours.

Originally from Benin, the young immigrant couple had made Rouyn-Noranda their home and embraced its culture wholeheartedly. Owning a restaurant had always been a dream, but Chez Morasse was more than a business opportunity—it was a way to keep a piece of Québec’s culinary heritage alive.

“Mr. Sodji and Ms. Senou are courageous, hardworking and open minded. The town loves them for keeping the restaurant close to their hearts.”

Léanne Rouillard, Chez Morasse employee

From Benin to Quebec—and into the heart of a community

Rouyn-Noranda, a town of about 42,000 people located some 600 km northwest of Montréal, became home to Carlos and Sylviane. Over time, they built their lives in Quebec, growing to love its traditions—including its most famous comfort food, poutine

Taking over Chez Morasse was a leap of faith, but their passion for food and community gave them the courage to take the risk.

“As a Quebecer, I find it very courageous,” says Léanne Rouillard, who has worked at the restaurant for over a year. “Not only because of the challenges involved in running a business but, on top of that, saving a restaurant with decades of Québécois tradition behind it.”

That sentiment is shared by many.

“Many people tell us they couldn’t have imagined taking on Chez Morasse themselves,” says Sylviane. “For them, it wasn’t just any restaurant—it was an institution.”

More than just poutine: a commitment to community

Judicaël Osse, a longtime customer, still eats at Chez Morasse every week. Like many town residents, he would have been heartbroken to see it close—not only for the poutine but for what it represents.

“Several restaurants shut down after the pandemic,” he says. “I really appreciate that this one is still here—and that I’ve had the chance to try new foods, too.”

Carlos and Sylviane have kept the poutinerie’s signature dishes but have also added their own twist to the menu, introducing new flavours while honouring the restaurant’s history. However, their impact goes far beyond the kitchen.

“They are very generous and always ready to help,” says Osse.

Whenever there’s extra food at the restaurant, the couple donates it to a local shelter for people experiencing homelessness. And when Rouyn-Noranda welcomed newcomers from Ukraine, Carlos and Sylviane treated them to a free poutine dinner.

“We wanted to help them feel welcome—to introduce them to Quebec culture through something as simple, yet special, as poutine,” says Carlos.

In return, the couple has received overwhelming support from the community.

“The Québécois people here celebrate our success,” says Sylviane.

They recognize that food is more than just sustenance—it’s a shared experience, a point of pride and a symbol of belonging. By preserving a local icon, Carlos and Sylviane have become more than business owners; they’ve become part of the town’s story.

Now, they’re dreaming even bigger.

“We’d love to bring poutine to more places—other provinces, territories, even other countries,” says Carlos.

Their journey is proof that immigration isn’t just about new beginnings; it’s about strengthening and enriching the traditions that make a place feel like home.