Poutine looks cheap until curds and gravy portions drift.
This guide gives you a Canadian poutine cost calculator that protects margin.
Quick Summary
- Cost poutine by fries + curds + gravy + packaging
- Curds are the biggest cost driver
- Ladle size and fry weight must be fixed
- Loaded toppings need a higher price tier
Base Formula
Poutine cost = Fries + Curds + Gravy + Packaging + Toppings
Food cost % = Poutine cost ÷ Menu priceExample (Canada)
Standard build (1 order):
- Fries (8 oz cooked): $0.55
- Fry oil absorption: $0.10
- Cheese curds (2.5 oz): $1.50
- Gravy (4 oz): $0.48
- Packaging: $0.35
Total cost: $2.98
At a $10 menu price, food cost is 29.8%.
If curds increase by $0.20/oz, the same order jumps to 34%.
Portion Standards That Matter
- Fries: fixed weight per size
- Curds: measured ounces, not handfuls
- Gravy: one ladle size per serving
Pricing Tips
- Base price for classic poutine
- +$2 to +$4 for loaded toppings
- Charge for extra curds and double gravy
Canada Cost Reality Check
Statistics Canada reported that food purchased from restaurants rose 8.5% year-over-year in Dec 2025.
If your menu has not moved in 90 days, your margin is probably shrinking.
Related Guides
- US Loaded Fries Cost Guide
- Canada Delivery App Pricing Guide
- US Restaurant Pricing Audit Checklist
- US Food Cost Calculator
Want This Automated?
KitchenCost tracks portion standards and updates poutine costs when curd or potato prices change.
Start on the KitchenCost landing page.