Zélé: a warm neighborhood bistro in Sainte-Flore

In the heart of the charming village of Sainte-Flore, in Shawinigan, Zélé is a hidden gem of a bistro where you can indulge in delicious food in a cozy yet lively atmosphere.

Open since 2013, the restaurant was born from the love story between two food enthusiasts — Justin Dunlop Lemieux and his partner Vanessa Julien Picard — who met while studying culinary arts in Québec City. Vanessa fell for the region where Justin grew up, and together they decided to settle there and open a restaurant that reflected who they are.

“At the time, there weren’t many dining options in the area,” Justin recalls. Their idea: to offer modern, simple, and accessible cuisine, inspired by European bistros, with a clear nod to the world of Joe Beef, which greatly influenced them in their early days. For two years, they renovated the space themselves while working other jobs in the village.

Today, Zélé is a place where you eat well, without pretension. The chalkboard menu changes with the seasons and what’s available from local producers, but some dishes have become true favorites: the striploin with Bleu d’Élizabeth, seafood spaghetti, the decadent mushroom and foie gras arancini, and most of all… the black garlic fries, now a house classic.

On the wine side, the vibrant Joëlle Beauchesne — front-of-house manager since day one — curates a dynamic and diverse list in collaboration with several agencies: a joyful mix of local products and thoughtfully chosen imports.

The atmosphere is that of a welcoming neighborhood bistro, where you instantly feel at home. The dining room, lit by candlelight, feels like the cozy interior of an old home. The music — fairly loud, don’t be surprised — is carefully selected by the owners. It’s the perfect spot for a date night, a birthday dinner, or a spontaneous evening out.

“What I’m most proud of is the team. Many have been with us for years, and we’ve managed to create a great quality of life together. We don’t rest on our laurels — we listen, we care, and we want to make people happy,” says Justin.

Zélé is all of that: thoughtful but unfussy cuisine, a genuine atmosphere, warm hospitality, and above all, a sincere desire to do things well. If you’re passing through Shawinigan, it’s a must-visit.

Enjoy the discovery!

Written by Jean-Philippe Tastet


Last update: July 25, 2025

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