Voices of Hudson - Kingfisher: A Taste of Heart in Hudson
- Marlene Luce Tremblay
- May 27
- 3 min read
There’s a new spot in town—Le Pub Kingfisher—and it’s quickly becoming much more than just a place to eat. Here, great food and drinks are only the beginning. What truly sets Kingfisher apart is the warm, genuine welcome extended by its owner, Charlie—a man whose passion, not profit, is at the heart of everything he does.
In an age where businesses often prioritize the bottom line, Kingfisher stands as a refreshing exception. Charlie’s deep love for food, people, and community is unmistakable. It fills the room with an uplifting energy that makes you feel right at home—and keeps people coming back.
Since its opening, Kingfisher has already gained a devoted following. Patrons aren’t just drawn by the delicious dishes; they come for the vibe—spirited, authentic, and brimming with heart. Behind the scenes, Charlie’s son Michael leads the kitchen as Executive Chef. His commitment to quality and culinary creativity is evident in every plate served. Michael's partner, Carlie, handles the administration with precision and care, while Darryl, the tech-savvy member of the team, spearheads community outreach and engagement. It’s a true family affair—supported by a team of four passionate partners.
The journey to Kingfisher began years earlier. Charlie, an experienced entrepreneur with a successful background in retail packaging, first dipped into the restaurant world by opening Capiche, a project born from his love for food and wine. Michael, then a student at McGill University, worked part-time at Capiche, and eventually found his calling in the kitchen. Upon graduation, he launched his own restaurant, The Blvd. Then, five years ago, the father-son duo began exploring the idea of investing in a pub in Hudson. That idea blossomed into Kingfisher, a place that now reflects the spirit, heritage, and energy of everyone involved.
''Inspired by the rich tradition of British pubs, we wanted a name that reflected our location, story, and spirit.'' When Charlie discovered that Hudson had adopted the Kingfisher as its official bird in May 2024, he immediately proposed it—and the whole team agreed. The Kingfisher, like us, is resilient, patient yet quick, and full of character. Once nearly extinct, it's now thriving again—just like the historic building that houses our pub. We found that parallel perfect.
Charlie’s story, however, reaches far deeper. In 1970, at the age of 13, he immigrated from Beirut with his family to Châteauguay, Quebec. They were seeking peace and security, only to arrive in the middle of the Quebec October Crisis. Charlie spoke only French at the time, and like many immigrant families, faced the challenges of starting over in an unfamiliar land. Yet from these beginnings emerged a resilient spirit. Charlie eventually carved out a successful path in the corporate world before finding his true fulfillment as an entrepreneur. He became part of the vibrant wave of immigrants who’ve contributed richly to Canada’s cultural and economic landscape.
Le Pub Kingfisher - Bringing People Together
That sense of multiculturalism is at the heart of Kingfisher’s menu. Reflecting the diversity Charlie cherishes in his beloved Montreal, the offerings span Lebanese, Thai, Indian, French, and traditional Irish pub fare. “This is who we are,” Charlie says with conviction—and the menu tells that story with flavor, color, and care.
Kingfisher is more than a restaurant. It’s a living legacy—a testament to family, resilience, and the joy of bringing people together around a table. With its soulful hospitality, cultural richness, and community spirit, Kingfisher has become a vital part of Hudson’s evolving story.
Sunday Afternoon at Le Pub Kingfisher
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