Ashton opened its first restaurant in Montreal on August 11, 2026, situating the new outlet inside the city’s Complexe Desjardins. The launch marks the chain’s initial entry into the Montreal market after decades of operation elsewhere in Quebec.
The opening was highlighted by comments from Vincent White, Ashton’s marketing director. White outlined how the brand distinguishes itself from other quick‑service establishments, emphasizing unique aspects of its menu and service model. He also addressed the company’s plans for additional locations, indicating that the Montreal opening could be the first step in a broader expansion strategy within the province.
Ashton’s history in Quebec dates back to the 1970s, when the chain introduced poutine to the province’s fast‑food scene. Over the ensuing decades, the brand built a reputation around that signature dish and has now moved to broaden its presence beyond its original markets. The new Complexe Desjardins venue offers the same menu that helped establish Ashton’s early reputation, while also featuring updates designed to appeal to the city’s diverse clientele.
The Complexe Desjardins location is positioned in a high‑traffic shopping and office hub, providing easy access for commuters and shoppers alike. With the launch, Ashton joins a growing list of food providers expanding into Montreal’s competitive dining landscape. White’s remarks suggest that the company will monitor performance at the new site before committing to further openings, though no specific timelines were disclosed.
The opening adds another chapter to Ashton’s evolution from a regional poutine pioneer to a chain seeking a larger footprint across Quebec’s major urban centers.