Poutine is such an iconic food here in Toronto that even restaurants that have no business serving it are doing just that. While the recipes might diverge from the classic trinity of fries, curds and gravy, the cross-culturally inflected and innovative takes are undeniably delicious.

Case in point: the Japanese Poutine ($3.95/small, or, $5.95/large) dreamed up by Ramen Raijin on Gerrard St.

The noodle house serves up crisp fried spuds smothered with proper cheese curds, but veers from the traditional when it comes to sauces that are only vaguely reminiscent of gravy. Select between tangy teriyaki mayo or a butter soy sauce thats doused over the cheesy mess then crowned with nori chiffonade and green onions.

It's not your average poutine, but it sure does eat well with chopsticks.

Thanks to IBM for sponsoring this post. IBM Watson's cognitive system helps chefs create new recipes and helps businesses cook up new ideas.

Know of any Toronto restaurants doing interesting takes on poutine? Let us know in the comments.