23-year-old business owner Daniel Destine is happy and grateful to be honoured
Every summer, thousands of Canadians hit the road in search of lakes, campgrounds, cottages - and somewhere along the way, some great fresh-cut fries.
Now, one Oxford County favourite has become the destination itself.
P.B.'s Fries in Ingersoll has been named the number one chip stand in Canada by the authors of "The Chip Stand: 130 of Canada's Iconic Food Landmarks," a guidebook celebrating some of the country's most iconic roadside food stops, as noted by the Canadian Automoblie Association (CAA).
The honour recognizes more than just great fries. The authors highlighted P.B.'s for its fresh-cut fries, poutines made with locally sourced cheese curds, creative menu items - and the remarkable story behind its young owner, Daniel Destine.
As a matter of fact, Destine says he started as a part-time employee:
Now, at just 23 years old, Daniel Destine owns a business that's been serving hungry customers since 1964, and it's an iconic 1972 Airstream Land Yacht that Destine says is a part of the community:
Destine works to honour the stand's long history while adding his own ideas. Along with classic fresh-cut fries, P.B.'s has become known for inventive menu items including its popular Pickle Fries, topped with pickles and finished with pickle vinegar, along with specialty fries featuring jalapeños, garlic aioli and other creative toppings.
The roadside landmark is located just minutes north of Highway 401, making it a regular stop for travelers across southwestern Ontario, while locals continue to make it a community favourite.
Destine points out how, of all things, the pandemic was a catalyst in a resurgence of the roadside food business:
For Bennett and Kimmel, the husband-and-wife team behind the guidebook, P.B.'s combined exceptional food with an unforgettable story—earning the Ingersoll landmark the top spot among chip stands from across Canada.
For Destine, the recognition is not only a personal achievement, but a celebration of a business that's been part of the community for more than six decades:
P.B's Fries continues to be a favourite for its quality, flavour, and generous portions, making it what many people consider a must-visit for anyone in the area.
