by Quebec City is a paradise for food lovers, blending French-inspired cuisine with the heartiness of Canadian flavors. During my trip, I was swept away by the vibrant culinary scene, from cozy bistros to high-end dining establishments. Let me share with you some of the best restaurants I visited and why each is a must-try on your trip to Quebec City.
1. Le Continental: A Classic French Delight
Location: 26 Rue Saint-Louis, Quebec City, QC G1R 3Y9
How to Get There: Nestled in Old Quebec, it’s a short walk from Château Frontenac. If you’re staying elsewhere, buses and taxis can drop you nearby.
Cuisine: French fine dining
My Experience:
Walking into Le Continental felt like stepping into an era of old-world elegance. The white tablecloths, polished silverware, and attentive staff set the tone for an extraordinary dining experience.
I ordered their famous steak Diane, prepared tableside with a theatrical flair. Watching the chef expertly cook the steak in a flaming sauce of brandy, butter, and cream was a feast for the eyes. The flavors were impeccable—each bite melted in my mouth.
For dessert, I indulged in their signature Crêpes Suzette, another tableside performance that left me thoroughly impressed. The citrusy, caramelized sauce paired perfectly with the delicate crepes.
Price: Expect to spend CAD 50–70 per person. Worth every penny for the experience.
Recommendation Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
2. La Bûche: Rustic Quebecois Charm
Location: 49 Rue Saint-Louis, Quebec City, QC G1R 3Z2
How to Get There: A quick stroll from the city center. Easily accessible by foot or local transit.
Cuisine: Traditional Quebecois
My Experience:
La Bûche felt like walking into a warm cabin in the woods. The decor was quirky yet cozy, with rustic wooden beams and nostalgic Quebec memorabilia hanging on the walls.
The star of my meal was the tourtière, a traditional Quebec meat pie served with a tangy fruit chutney. It was hearty and comforting, the perfect dish for a cold day. I also tried their maple taffy dessert, made fresh at the table by pouring hot maple syrup over crushed ice—a quintessential Quebec experience.
The staff added to the charm, sharing fun anecdotes about the dishes and the region’s culinary traditions.
Price: Mid-range, about CAD 20–30 per meal.
Recommendation Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
3. Bistro Sous le Fort: Cozy and Picturesque
Location: 48 Rue Sous-le-Fort, Quebec City, QC G1K 4G9
How to Get There: Located in Petit Champlain, this bistro is easy to find near the base of the Funicular.
Cuisine: French-Canadian bistro fare
My Experience:
Dining at Bistro Sous le Fort felt like being part of a painting. The small, intimate setting was enhanced by its location on a quaint cobblestone street.
I ordered the duck confit, a dish I’ll never forget. The crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat were perfectly complemented by a bed of creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. I paired this with a glass of local cider, which added a refreshing note to the meal.
The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was perfect for a romantic evening or a solo indulgence like mine.
Price: Around CAD 30–40 per person.
Recommendation Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
4. Chez Muffy: Farm-to-Table Elegance
Location: 10 Rue Saint-Antoine, Quebec City, QC G1K 4C9
How to Get There: Situated in the Auberge Saint-Antoine hotel, a short walk from Old Port.
Cuisine: Farm-to-table, contemporary
My Experience:
Chez Muffy is the epitome of refined rustic. Housed in a historic warehouse, the restaurant’s stone walls and timber beams create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
I started with their signature smoked duck breast salad, featuring greens sourced from local farms. For the main course, I couldn’t resist the braised lamb shank, slow-cooked to perfection and served with a rich red wine jus.
What stood out was their focus on sustainability and local sourcing. Every bite felt fresh, and the flavors were masterfully balanced.
Price: High-end, around CAD 50–75 per person.
Recommendation Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
5. Paillard: A Bakery Lover’s Dream
Location: 1097 Rue Saint-Jean, Quebec City, QC G1R 1S3
How to Get There: Situated on bustling Rue Saint-Jean, it’s easily accessible by bus or on foot.
Cuisine: Bakery and café
My Experience:
Paillard is a must-visit for anyone who loves pastries. The aroma of freshly baked bread hit me as soon as I walked in, and the array of colorful macarons, buttery croissants, and decadent desserts made it hard to choose.
I settled on their almond croissant and a café au lait. The croissant was flaky and rich, with just the right amount of sweetness from the almond filling. I also picked up a baguette sandwich for later, which was just as delicious.
The café was lively, filled with locals and tourists alike, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Price: Budget-friendly, about CAD 5–15 per item.
Recommendation Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
6. Légende: Creative Quebec Cuisine
Location: 255 Rue Saint-Paul, Quebec City, QC G1K 3W5
How to Get There: Located near Old Port, a short walk from most downtown hotels.
Cuisine: Contemporary, Quebec-inspired
My Experience:
Légende takes Quebecois cuisine to a whole new level with its creative, seasonal menu. The restaurant’s minimalist, modern decor lets the food take center stage.
I opted for their tasting menu, which included six courses showcasing the best of Quebec’s local ingredients. Highlights included Arctic char with a foraged herb sauce and venison tartare with pickled vegetables. Each dish was a work of art, both in presentation and flavor.
The staff was knowledgeable, explaining the origin of each ingredient and the inspiration behind the dishes.
Price: High-end, CAD 80–100 per person.
Recommendation Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
7. Café-Boulangerie Paillard: Breakfast Bliss
Location: 1097 Rue Saint-Jean, Quebec City, QC G1R 1S3
How to Get There: Same location as the bakery, right on Rue Saint-Jean.
Cuisine: Café and bakery breakfast items
My Experience:
On my last day in Quebec City, I returned to Paillard for breakfast. Their breakfast quiche was heavenly, with a perfectly flaky crust and creamy filling.
I also grabbed a latte and a chocolate croissant to-go, enjoying them while strolling through Old Quebec. It was the perfect way to start the day.
Price: Budget-friendly, about CAD 10–20 per meal.
Recommendation Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Quebec City’s culinary scene offers something for every taste and budget. Each of these restaurants left me with unforgettable memories and flavors, and I can’t wait to return to explore more.
