It is described as a cholesterol highball, a fatty delight and a fast food icon. And at 50, the concoction of french fries topped with gravy and salty cheese curds is gaining newfound respect.

The exact origin of poutine is unclear, but most stories place the date at 1957.

the "lumberjack fat food" remains popular, and being elevated to an haute-cuisine dish while showing up on menus across the U.S.