Looking for the best restaurants in Quebec City, Canada where you can satisfy your hunger and try local foods? I’ve eaten my way through this historic city, trying everything from fancy French cuisine to hearty Quebecois comfort food.
Some of the best dining in Quebec City blew me away, while others left me wanting more. But that’s all part of the experience, right? So, let me share with you the best (and sometimes not-so-best) dining spots Quebec City has to offer!
How are Restaurants in Quebec City?
Quebec City’s food scene is a melting pot of flavors. You’ll find traditional Quebecois dishes, fancy French-inspired cuisine, and modern twists on local ingredients.
This Canadian city has many restaurants, from tiny bistros hidden in old stone buildings to swanky spots with killer views of the St. Lawrence River.
One thing to keep in mind: eating out in Quebec City can be pricey, especially in the touristy areas of Old Quebec. But don’t worry, I’ll give you the scoop on costs so you can plan your food budget.
Take note: In August 2024, 1 Canadian Dollar (CAD) is about 0.72 US Dollars (USD). Now, let’s dig into my top 10 of the best dining in Quebec City where you can dine while in Canada!
1. La Bûche: Best for Old-School Quebec Food
- Address: 49 Rue Saint-Louis, Québec, QC G1R 3Z2
- Phone: (418) 694-7272
- Website: https://restolabuche.com/
- Opening hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM (10:00 PM Thu-Sat)
La Bûche is like stepping into your cool Quebec grandma’s kitchen – if she was also a really awesome chef! This place serves up traditional Quebec dishes with a fun twist. It’s right in the heart of Old Quebec, so it’s super easy to find after a day of exploring.
Cozy Vibes and Cool Decor
When you walk into La Bûche, you’re hit with a wave of kitsch. The walls are covered with old photos, antique snowshoes, and other Quebecois knick-knacks. It’s like a Sugar Shack exploded in here!
The tables are set up family-style, which is great if you’re social, but might be a bit much if you’re looking for a quiet, romantic dinner.
Tasty Dishes and What They Cost
La Bûche’s menu is full of Quebec classics. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Poutine with Braised Beef: This isn’t your average poutine. It’s loaded with chunks of tender beef and smothered in gravy. Price: 18 CAD (13 USD)
- Tourtière: A savory meat pie that’s perfect for cold days. Price: 22 CAD (16 USD)
- Maple-glazed duck: Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and sweet all over. Price: 32 CAD (23 USD)
- Pouding chômeur: A super sweet dessert that translates to “unemployed person’s pudding”. Price: 10 CAD (7 USD)
Most main dishes cost between 20 and 35 CAD (14-25 USD). The portions are big, so you definitely get your money’s worth!
What Folks Say About Eating Here
People generally love La Bûche for its fun atmosphere and hearty food. But it’s not all maple syrup and sunshine. Here’s the good and the bad:
Pros:
- The menu offers a wide variety of authentic Quebec cuisine, allowing diners to try multiple traditional dishes in one meal.
- The lively atmosphere, complete with Quebecois music, creates a fun and energetic dining experience that’s great for groups.
- The staff are friendly and bilingual, making it easy for both English and French-speaking visitors to feel welcome and understand the menu.
Cons:
- The restaurant can get extremely noisy, especially during peak hours, which might make it difficult for those seeking a quieter dining experience.
- Some diners find the decor and overall vibe a bit too kitschy, feeling like it caters more to tourists than locals.
- The menu is heavily meat-focused, leaving vegetarians and vegans with limited options to choose from.
Here’s a quick look at what people think:
| Rating Category | Score (out of 5) | What People Say |
|---|---|---|
| Food | 4.5 | “Tasty, but heavy” |
| Service | 4.6 | “Staff are fun and helpful” |
| Value | 4.3 | “Pricey, but big portions” |
| Atmosphere | 4.7 | “Fun, but can be loud” |
| Cleanliness | 4.5 | “Clean, but tables are close together” |
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2. Le Lapin Sauté: Cute Spot for Rabbit and More in Petit-Champlain
- Address: 52 Rue du Petit Champlain, Québec, QC G1K 4H4
- Phone: (418) 692-5325
- Website: https://www.lapinsaute.com/#/
- Opening hours: Wed-Sun 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Mon-Tue 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Next up on our Quebec City food tour is Le Lapin Sauté, a charming little restaurant in the super cute Petit-Champlain neighborhood.
As you might guess from the name, they’re all about rabbit here. But don’t worry if that’s not your thing – they’ve got other options too.
Location and How It Feels Inside
Le Lapin Sauté is nestled on Rue du Petit-Champlain, a cobblestone street that looks like it’s straight out of a storybook. The restaurant itself is in an old house that’s been turned into a cozy dining spot.
Inside, it’s all warm wood and soft lighting, with a big fireplace that’s perfect for those chilly Quebec nights. In the summer, they open up a cute little terrace where you can eat outside and watch people stroll by.
Best Things to Eat and Drink
Okay, let’s talk food! Here’s what you’ve gotta try:
- Rabbit Poutine: Yep, they put rabbit on poutine and it’s pretty darn good. Price: 16 CAD (11.50 USD)
- Cassoulet with Duck and Rabbit: A hearty stew that’s perfect for cold days. Price: 32 CAD (23 USD)
- Maple Crème Brûlée: Because you can’t leave Quebec without eating something maple-flavored! Price: 9 CAD (6.50 USD)
They’ve also got a great selection of local beers and Quebec wines. Most main dishes are between 25 and 40 CAD (18-29 USD).
Why People Love This Place (and Why Some Don’t)
Le Lapin Sauté gets a lot of love, but it’s not perfect. Here’s the scoop:
Pros:
- The restaurant offers a unique menu that showcases rabbit in various preparations, giving diners the opportunity to try this less common meat in creative dishes.
- The cozy and romantic atmosphere, especially with the fireplace in winter, creates a charming setting for intimate dinners.
- Its location in the picturesque Petit-Champlain district adds to the overall dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy a meal in one of Quebec City’s most beautiful areas.
Cons:
- During peak tourist season, the restaurant can become extremely crowded and noisy, which may detract from the otherwise intimate atmosphere.
- Some diners find the prices to be on the high side, especially considering the portion sizes, which can be smaller than expected.
- The menu’s focus on rabbit and other meats means that vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions may struggle to find suitable options.
Here’s how it stacks up:
| Rating Category | Score (out of 5) | What People Say |
|---|---|---|
| Food | 4.6 | “Rabbit dishes are a must-try!” |
| Service | 4.5 | “Friendly, but can be slow when busy” |
| Atmosphere | 4.8 | “So cozy and charming” |
| Value | 4.2 | “Tasty, but a bit pricey” |
| Location | 5.0 | “Can’t beat the Petit-Champlain setting” |
3. Buvette Scott: Hidden Food Gem with Great Tunes
- Address: 821 Rue Scott, Quebec City, QC G1R 3C8
- Phone: +1 581-741-4464
- Website: https://www.buvettescott.com/
- Opening hours: Tue-Sat 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Closed Sun-Mon
Buvette Scott is a restaurant in Quebec City and a secret spot that locals love, tucked away in the Saint-Jean Baptiste neighborhood. It’s the kind of place where the food is fancy but the vibe is super chill.
Tiny but Awesome Dining Room
Buvette Scott is small – like, really small. It’s got room for about 20 people, tops. The whole place feels like a friend’s living room if that friend was also an amazing chef.
They’ve got vinyl records playing all the time, which adds to the laid-back feel. The open kitchen means you can watch the chefs work their magic while you sip on a glass of wine.
Yummy Seasonal Food and Drinks
The menu at Buvette Scott changes all the time based on what’s fresh and in season. Here are some dishes that’ll give you an idea of what to expect:
- Beef Tartare: Raw beef might sound weird, but trust me, it’s delicious here. Price: 18 CAD (13 USD) for a small plate
- House-made Spaghetti: Simple but so good, often served with local veggies. Price: 26 CAD (19 USD)
- Scallops: When they’re on the menu, don’t miss ’em! Price: 32 CAD (23 USD)
They’ve also got a really cool wine list with lots of natural and biodynamic wines. Glasses start at about 12 CAD (8.50 USD), with bottles ranging from 50-150 CAD (36-108 USD).
Why Locals Love It (and What Might Bug You)
Buvette Scott has become a favorite among Quebec City food lovers, but it’s not for everyone. Here’s the lowdown:
Pros:
- The ever-changing menu keeps things interesting and ensures that the dishes are always made with the freshest seasonal ingredients, providing a unique dining experience with each visit.
- The intimate atmosphere and open kitchen create a personal dining experience where guests can interact with the chefs and feel like they’re part of the cooking process.
- The carefully curated selection of natural and biodynamic wines offers wine enthusiasts the chance to try unique and lesser-known varietals that pair well with the food.
Cons:
- The small space means that getting a table can be challenging, often requiring reservations well in advance or long wait times for walk-ins.
- The constantly changing menu, while exciting for some, might disappoint diners who return hoping to have a dish they enjoyed on a previous visit.
- The prices can be high relative to the portion sizes, which some diners find too small, especially for main courses.
Let’s see how it stacks up:
| Rating Category | Rating (out of 5) | What People Say |
|---|---|---|
| Food Quality | 4.8 | “Creative and delicious, but small portions” |
| Wine Selection | 4.9 | “Awesome natural wines, but can be pricey” |
| Atmosphere | 4.7 | “Cozy, but can feel cramped when full” |
| Service | 4.6 | “Friendly, but sometimes slow” |
| Value | 4.2 | “Expensive for the portion sizes” |
| Music | 5.0 | “Love the vinyl – great playlist!” |
4. Bistro St-Malo: French Food in a Cool Old Building
- Address: 75 Saint-Paul Street, Vieux-Port, Quebec City, QC G1K 3V8
- Phone: +1 418-692-2004
- Website: https://www.bistrostmalo.com/
- Opening hours: Tue-Sun 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM, Closed Mon
Let’s hop over to the Old Port area and check out Bistro St-Malo. This place is all about classic French bistro food, served up in a building that’s older than your great-great-grandpa!
Old-Timey Feels and Warm Fireplace
Bistro St-Malo is in a stone building that’s been around since the 1800s. As soon as you step inside, you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. The walls are made of exposed stone, there are wooden beams on the ceiling, and get this – there’s a real wood-burning fireplace!
In the winter, Bistro St-Malo is the coziest among the best restaurants in Quebec City. They’ve even got a little terrace for when the weather’s nice.
Must-Try Eats Here
The food at Bistro St-Malo is like a warm hug for your taste buds. Here’s what you gotta try:
- French Onion Soup: It’s rich, cheesy, and perfect for a cold day. Price: 12 CAD (8.64 USD)
- Duck Confit: Crispy duck leg that’s so tender it falls off the bone. Price: 32 CAD (23 USD)
- Steak Frites: A classic bistro dish – juicy steak with crispy fries. Price: 36 CAD (26 USD)
- Crème Brûlée: The perfect way to end your meal – creamy custard with a crackly sugar top. Price: 10 CAD (7.20 USD)
They’ve also got a great wine list with lots of French wines to choose from. Most main dishes are between 25 and 40 CAD (18-29 USD).
The Good and the Not-So-Good
Pros:
- The historic setting in a centuries-old stone building provides a unique and atmospheric dining experience that transports you to old-world France.
- The menu offers a range of classic French dishes prepared with skill and high-quality ingredients, satisfying those craving authentic French cuisine.
- The cozy fireplace and intimate seating arrangement create a romantic ambiance, perfect for special occasions or a memorable dinner during colder months.
Cons:
- Due to the restaurant’s popularity and limited seating, reservations can be difficult to secure, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends.
- Some diners find the prices to be on the higher end, which might not suit those on a tight budget or looking for a casual, inexpensive meal.
- The traditional French menu, while delicious, may not offer enough variety for those seeking more innovative or diverse culinary options.
Here’s a quick rundown of what people think:
| Rating Category | Rating (out of 5) | What People Say |
|---|---|---|
| Food | 4.7 | “Best French onion soup in Quebec City!” |
| Atmosphere | 4.8 | “Love the cozy fireplace and old stone walls” |
| Service | 4.6 | “Staff are knowledgeable but can be slow when busy” |
| Value | 4.3 | “Pricey, but the quality justifies it” |
| Wine Selection | 4.7 | “Great French wines, but could use more affordable options” |
| Authenticity | 4.9 | “Feels like dining in a small French village” |
5. Le Saint-Amour: Fancy Restaurant in Old Quebec City
- Address: 48 Rue Sainte-Ursule, Quebec City, QC G1R 4E2
- Phone: +1 418-694-0667
- Website: https://www.saint-amour.com/
- Opening hours: Tue-Sat 5:30 PM – 11:30 PM, Closed Sun-Mon
Le Saint-Amour is the kind of place you go when you want to feel like a movie star for a night. It’s in the heart of Old Quebec and it’s been wowing people with its amazing food for over 40 years.
Le Saint-Amour is the kind of place people go for big celebrations like anniversaries or graduations. It’s also popular with celebrities – Paul McCartney ate here once!
Pretty Rooms and Special Atmosphere
When you walk into Le Saint-Amour, your jaw might just drop. The main dining room has a glass roof and a big tree right in the middle! It feels like you’re eating in a fancy garden.
The walls are covered in art, and everything from the plates to the chairs looks super classy. They’ve even got private dining rooms if you want to feel extra special.
Super Fancy Menu and Lots of Wines
Le Saint-Amour is where you go when you want to treat yourself to some really amazing food. The chef, Jean-Luc Boulay, is kind of a big deal in Quebec. He makes dishes that look so pretty you almost don’t want to eat them – but trust me, you’ll want to eat them! Here are some of the yummy things you might find on the menu:
- Foie Gras: They’re famous for this rich, creamy duck liver dish. Price: 28 CAD (20 USD) for an appetizer portion
- Maple-Glazed Duck Breast: Because you can’t leave Quebec without eating something with maple! Price: 46 CAD (33 USD)
- Lobster and Scallop Risotto: Creamy rice with fresh seafood – yum! Price: 52 CAD (37 USD)
And let me tell you about the wine! Le Saint-Amour has a wine cellar with over 12,000 bottles. That’s not a typo – twelve thousand!
Don’t worry if you’re not a wine expert, though. The sommeliers (that’s a fancy word for wine experts) are super friendly and can help you choose.
The Highs and Lows
Pros:
- The restaurant offers an unparalleled fine dining experience in Quebec City, with meticulously prepared dishes that showcase both traditional French techniques and local Quebec ingredients.
- The wine cellar, boasting over 12,000 bottles, provides an extensive selection that caters to both wine connoisseurs and casual drinkers, with knowledgeable sommeliers to guide your choice.
- The stunning main dining room with its glass roof and central tree creates a unique and memorable atmosphere that elevates the entire dining experience.
Cons:
- The prices at Le Saint-Amour are among the highest in Quebec City, which can make it inaccessible for many diners or difficult to justify for anything other than very special occasions.
- Due to its popularity and reputation, reservations often need to be made well in advance, which can be inconvenient for spontaneous diners or tourists with limited time in the city.
- Some diners find the atmosphere a bit too formal or stuffy, which might not appeal to those seeking a more relaxed or casual fine dining experience.
Here’s what people love about Le Saint-Amour:
| Rating Category | Rating (out of 5) | What People Say |
|---|---|---|
| Food Presentation | 5.0 | “Every plate looks like a work of art” |
| Taste | 4.9 | “Flavors are complex and unforgettable” |
| Wine Selection | 5.0 | “Incredible variety, but can be overwhelming” |
| Service | 4.8 | “Staff are professional, but some find them a bit aloof” |
| Atmosphere | 4.9 | “Gorgeous space, though a bit formal for some” |
| Value for Money | 4.2 | “Expensive, but a once-in-a-lifetime experience” |
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6. Le Pape Georges: Comfy Old Port Hangout with Live Music
- Address: 8 Rue du Cul-de-Sac, Quebec City, QC G1K 8L4
- Phone: +1 418-692-1320
- Website: https://www.quartierpetitchamplain.com/
- Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM, Fri-Sun 11:30 AM – 3:00 AM
Le Pape Georges is a place like your favorite comfy sweater – it just makes you feel good! It’s tucked away in the Old Port area and it’s where locals go when they want good food, good drinks, and good tunes.
One of the coolest things about Le Pape Georges is that it’s open late. Like, really late. They’re open until 3 AM on weekends, which makes it a great spot for a midnight snack or a late-night hangout.
Snug Inside with Tunes
Le Pape Georges is in an old stone building that’s super cozy inside. There are wooden beams on the ceiling, stone walls, and lots of little nooks where you can sit.
The best part? They have live music almost every night! It’s usually local artists playing jazz or folk music. The vibe is so relaxed – you can chat with friends, tap your foot to the music, and munch on yummy food all at the same time.
Comfort Food and Tasty Drinks
The food at Le Pape Georges is what I like to call “fancy comfort food”. It’s the kind of stuff your mom might make if your mom was also a really good chef. Here are some things you gotta try:
- Cheese Fondue: Melty cheese that you dip bread into – what’s not to love? Price: 22 CAD (15.84 USD)
- Charcuterie Board: A big plate of different meats and cheeses. Price: 26 CAD (18.72 USD)
- Lobster Roll: A buttery roll stuffed with fresh lobster. Price: 24 CAD (17.28 USD)
- Poutine: Because you’re in Quebec, and poutine is always a good idea! Price: 14 CAD (10.08 USD)
They’ve also got a great selection of local beers and cocktails. Most main dishes are between 15 and 25 CAD (10.80-18 USD).
The Ups and Downs
Pros:
- The live music almost every night creates a vibrant and entertaining atmosphere, making it a great spot for those who enjoy combining dining with live entertainment.
- The late hours (open until 3 AM on weekends) make it an excellent option for night owls or those looking for a place to continue their evening after other dining in Quebec City have closed.
- The menu offers a good balance of comfort foods and more sophisticated dishes, catering to a wide range of tastes and appetites.
Cons:
- Due to the live music and lively atmosphere, it can get quite noisy, which might not be ideal for those seeking a quiet conversation or a more intimate dining experience.
- The small space can feel crowded during peak hours, especially on nights with popular music acts, which might make it uncomfortable for some diners.
- While the food is generally good, some dishes can be hit or miss, and the quality might not be as consistent as some of the higher-end restaurants in Quebec City.
Here’s what makes Le Pape Georges special:
| Rating Category | Rating (out of 5) | What People Say |
|---|---|---|
| Live Music | 4.9 | “Great local artists every night” |
| Cozy Atmosphere | 4.8 | “Feels like hanging out in a friend’s place” |
| Late Hours | 5.0 | “Perfect for night owls” |
| Food Quality | 4.3 | “Good comfort food, but can be inconsistent” |
| Drink Selection | 4.7 | “Love the local beers and cocktails” |
| Value for Money | 4.5 | “Reasonable prices for the Old Port area” |
7. Restaurant Tanière³: New-Style Quebec Food in a Secret Spot
- Address: 36 1/2 Rue Saint-Pierre, Quebec City, QC G1K 3Z6
- Phone: +1 418-872-4386
- Website: https://www.taniere3.com/
- Opening hours: Wed-Sun 5:00 PM – 9:15 PM, Closed Mon-Tue
Restaurant Tanière³ is a hidden treasure of Quebec City’s food scene. It’s tucked away in a cellar, and it’s where chefs get super creative with local ingredients.
Eating in a Cool Old Cellar
Tanière³ isn’t easy to find – it’s in the cellars of an old house in the Petit Champlain district. When you go down the stairs, it feels like you’re entering a secret cave.
The walls are all stone, and they’ve kept a lot of the old stuff from when it was a real cellar. It’s dark and cozy, with soft lighting that makes everything feel magical.
Surprise Menu Experience
Here’s the coolest thing about Tanière³ – you never know exactly what you’re going to eat! They do what’s called a “blind tasting menu”. That means the chef decides what to make based on what’s fresh and in season. You just tell them if you have any allergies or things you don’t eat, and they take care of the rest.
The menu changes all the time, but here are some examples of dishes you might get:
- Smoked eel with apple and fennel
- Venison tartare with wild berries
- Duck breast with maple and root vegetables
- Spruce ice cream (yep, ice cream that tastes like Christmas trees!)
Every dish comes with a little story about where the ingredients come from or how it was made. It’s like a fun food adventure!
Now, I gotta be honest – Tanière³ isn’t cheap. The tasting menu costs around 140 CAD (100.80 USD) per person, and that’s without drinks.
But for a super special occasion, it’s totally worth it. You get about 12 to 15 small dishes, and it’s a meal you’ll remember forever.
The Highs and Lows
Pros:
- The unique “blind tasting menu” concept offers an exciting and unpredictable dining experience, perfect for adventurous eaters who enjoy surprises.
- The intimate cellar setting creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that enhances the overall dining experience and makes for a memorable evening.
- The focus on local, seasonal ingredients showcases the best of Quebec’s culinary offerings and supports local producers.
Cons:
- The high price point (around 140 CAD per person without drinks) makes it inaccessible for many diners and limits it to special occasions for most.
- The lack of menu choice might be frustrating for picky eaters or those with specific preferences, as you’re at the mercy of the chef’s selections.
- Reservations can be extremely difficult to secure, often requiring bookings weeks or even months in advance.
Here’s what diners think about Tanière³:
| Rating Category | Rating (out of 5) | What People Say |
|---|---|---|
| Food Creativity | 5.0 | “Every dish was a surprise and delicious” |
| Atmosphere | 4.9 | “So unique eating in a historic cellar” |
| Service | 4.8 | “Staff explain each dish with passion” |
| Wine Pairings | 4.9 | “Perfect wines to match each course” |
| Overall Experience | 5.0 | “A meal I’ll never forget” |
| Value for Money | 4.5 | “Expensive but worth it for the experience” |
8. Cochon Dingue: Fun Food in a Quirky Place Perfect for Families
- Address: 2450 Boulevard Laurier, Quebec City, QC G1V 2L1
- Phone: +1 418-684-2013
- Website: https://www.cochondingue.com/
- Opening hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (9:30 PM Wed-Sat)
After all that fancy stuff, let’s head somewhere more laid-back and fun. Cochon Dingue is the kind of place that’ll make you smile as soon as you walk in. It’s quirky, it’s colorful, and the food is seriously good.
Cochon Dingue is perfect if you’re traveling with kids. They’ve got a special kids’ menu with fun names for the dishes, and the wacky atmosphere keeps little ones entertained. But grown-ups love it too – it’s the kind of place that brings out the kid in everyone.
Wacky Decor and Good Vibes
Cochon Dingue means “Crazy Pig” in French, and boy, does this place live up to its name! The decor is wild – there are pig decorations everywhere, bright colors on the walls, and fun knick-knacks all over the place.
It feels like you’re eating in a really cool, food-themed funhouse. The atmosphere is always buzzing with happy chatter and laughter.
Yummy Breakfast and All-Day Faves
Cochon Dingue is famous for its breakfast, but they serve yummy food all day long. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Breakfast Poutine: Fries topped with cheese curds, hollandaise sauce, and a poached egg. It’s the best way to start your day! Price: 16 CAD (11.52 USD)
- Pig Mac: Their take on a certain famous burger, but way better. Price: 19 CAD (13.68 USD)
- Sugar Pie: A super sweet Quebec dessert that’ll make your teeth ache (in a good way). Price: 8 CAD (5.76 USD)
- Maple Milkshake: Because you’re in Quebec City, and maple makes everything better. Price: 7 CAD (5.04 USD)
Prices here are pretty reasonable. Most main dishes cost between 15 and 25 CAD (10.80-18 USD). And the portions are big, so you definitely won’t leave hungry!
The Good and the Not-So-Good
Pros:
- The playful, pig-themed decor creates a unique and entertaining atmosphere that’s especially appealing to families with children and those young at heart.
- The menu offers a wide range of comfort foods and Quebec classics at reasonable prices, making it accessible for various budgets.
- The all-day breakfast options provide flexibility for late risers or breakfast food lovers, which is not common in many Quebec City restaurants.
Cons:
- The lively and sometimes noisy atmosphere might not be ideal for those seeking a quiet or romantic dining experience.
- While the food is generally good, some dishes can be overly rich or heavy, which might not appeal to health-conscious diners or those with lighter appetites.
- During peak tourist seasons, the restaurant can get very crowded, leading to long wait times and potentially rushed service.
Here’s what people love about Cochon Dingue:
| Rating Category | Rating (out of 5) | What People Say |
|---|---|---|
| Fun Atmosphere | 5.0 | “Such a happy, quirky place!” |
| Breakfast | 4.8 | “Best breakfast in Quebec City” |
| Family-Friendly | 4.9 | “My kids loved the pig decorations” |
| Portion Sizes | 4.7 | “Huge portions – come hungry!” |
| Value for Money | 4.6 | “Great food for reasonable prices” |
| Staff Friendliness | 4.5 | “Servers are always smiling, but can be rushed during busy times” |
9. Chez Boulay – Bistro Boréal: Modern Northern Eats
- Address: 1110 Rue Saint-Jean, Quebec City, QC G1R 1S4
- Phone: +1 418-380-8166
- Website: https://chezboulay.com/
- Opening hours: Daily 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Now, let’s head to Chez Boulay – Bistro Boréal for something a bit different. This place takes inspiration from the flavors of northern Quebec and turns them into modern, super tasty dishes. It’s like a delicious adventure through Quebec’s forests and fields!
Cool Look and Great Spot
Chez Boulay is right in the heart of Old Quebec, so it’s easy to find after a day of sightseeing. The restaurant looks sleek and modern, with lots of wood and warm colors that make you think of the great outdoors. There’s an open kitchen, so you can watch the chefs work their magic.
Food Inspired by Northern Quebec
The menu at Chez Boulay is really unique. They use ingredients that grow in northern climates, like wild berries, mushrooms, and herbs you might find in the forest. Here are some dishes that’ll make your mouth water:
- Nordic Shrimp Nordique: Fresh shrimp with a creamy sauce flavored with spruce tips. Price: 32 CAD (23.04 USD)
- Bison Tartare: Raw bison meat mixed with berries and pine nuts. Price: 28 CAD (20.16 USD)
- Arctic Char: A delicious fish served with local veggies and wild rice. Price: 36 CAD (25.92 USD)
- Cloudberry Dessert: A sweet treat made with a tart berry that grows in cold climates. Price: 12 CAD (8.64 USD)
Chez Boulay doesn’t just stop at food when it comes to northern flavors. They’ve got some really cool drinks too:
- Cocktails made with local spirits and things like spruce syrup or wild berry liqueurs.
- A great selection of Quebec and Canadian wines.
- Craft beers from local breweries.
The staff here really know their stuff. If you’re not sure what to order, just ask – they’ll help you find the perfect drink to go with your meal.
Prices here are mid-range to high. Most main dishes cost between 30 and 45 CAD (21.60-32.40 USD). But the unique flavors make it worth the splurge!
The Ups and Downs
Pros:
- The innovative use of northern ingredients provides a unique dining experience that truly represents Quebec’s terroir and culinary creativity.
- The open kitchen concept allows diners to watch their meals being prepared, adding an interactive element to the dining experience.
- The knowledgeable staff can provide detailed information about the unfamiliar ingredients and dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Cons:
- The use of unfamiliar ingredients and flavor combinations might be challenging for less adventurous eaters or those with specific dietary preferences.
- The prices are on the higher end, which might not be suitable for budget-conscious travelers or those looking for a casual meal.
- During peak tourist seasons, the restaurant can get very busy, potentially affecting service quality and noise levels.
Here’s what makes Chez Boulay special:
| Rating Category | Rating (out of 5) | What People Say |
|---|---|---|
| Unique Flavors | 4.9 | “Never tasted anything like it before!” |
| Presentation | 4.8 | “Every dish looks like a work of art” |
| Local Ingredients | 5.0 | “Love that they use so many Quebec products” |
| Wine Selection | 4.7 | “Great wines I’d never heard of before” |
| Service | 4.6 | “Staff really know the menu, but can be slow when busy” |
| Atmosphere | 4.7 | “Modern but still cozy and welcoming” |
Chez Boulay – Bistro Boréal is definitely worth a visit if you’re looking to try something uniquely Quebecois and don’t mind spending a bit more for the experience.
10. L’Affaire Est Ketchup: Homey Gourmet Food in Saint-Roch
- Address: 46 Rue Saint-Joseph Est, Quebec City, QC G1K 3A5
- Phone: +1 418-529-9020
- Website: https://laffaireestketchup.ca/
- Opening hours: Tue-Sat 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM, Closed Sun-Mon
Last but definitely not least the restaurant in Quebec City is L’Affaire Est Ketchup. Don’t let the name fool you – there’s nothing ordinary about this place! It’s a tiny restaurant that serves up some of the most creative and delicious food in the city.
Tiny Place with a Kitchen You Can See
L’Affaire Est Ketchup is super small – it only seats about 20 people! The cool thing is, the kitchen is right there in the dining room. You can watch the chefs cook your meal, which makes it feel really personal and special. The decor is simple and homey, like you’re eating in someone’s house.
Creative Dishes with Local Stuff
The menu here changes all the time based on what fresh ingredients the chefs can get. They write the day’s dishes on a chalkboard, and when something runs out, they erase it. Here are some examples of the yummy things you might find:
- Sweetbreads with mushroom gnocchi: Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it! Price: 28 CAD (20.16 USD)
- Duck magret with plum sauce: Perfectly cooked duck breast with a fruity sauce. Price: 34 CAD (24.48 USD)
- Halibut with fennel and orange: Fresh fish with bright, citrusy flavors. Price: 32 CAD (23.04 USD)
- Chocolate pot de crème: A rich, creamy chocolate dessert that’ll make you swoon. Price: 12 CAD (8.64 USD)
The prices are mid-range to high, with main dishes usually between 25 and 40 CAD (18-28.80 USD). But the quality and creativity of the food make it totally worth it.
The Highs and Lows
Pros:
- The intimate setting and open kitchen create a unique, personal dining experience where you can interact with the chefs and watch your meal being prepared.
- The ever-changing menu ensures that each visit offers a new culinary adventure, showcasing the chef’s creativity and the best seasonal ingredients.
- The restaurant’s location in the trendy Saint-Roch neighborhood provides a glimpse into a less touristy, more local side of Quebec City.
Cons:
- The small size of the restaurant makes it difficult to get a reservation, which can be frustrating for visitors with limited time in the city.
- The constantly changing menu might disappoint diners who return hoping to have a dish they enjoyed on a previous visit.
- The casual, almost bare-bones decor might not meet the expectations of those looking for a more upscale or romantic dining atmosphere.
People who’ve eaten here say it’s one of the best meals they’ve had in Quebec City. Check out these ratings:
| Rating Category | Rating (out of 5) | What People Say |
|---|---|---|
| Food Creativity | 5.0 | “Every dish is a surprise and delicious” |
| Intimate Atmosphere | 4.8 | “Love the cozy, personal feel” |
| Chef Interaction | 5.0 | “So cool to watch the chefs cook” |
| Local Ingredients | 4.9 | “You can taste the freshness in every bite” |
| Value for Money | 4.6 | “Pricey but totally worth it” |
| Reservation Ease | 3.5 | “Great food, but hard to get a table” |
Wrapping Up: Tasting the Best of Quebec City
Phew! We’ve eaten our way through some of the best restaurants in Quebec City, from cozy bistros to fancy gourmet spots.
This city is a food lover’s dream, with amazing flavors from traditional Quebec cuisine, modern twists on local ingredients, and influences from all over the world.
So, when you visit Quebec City, come hungry! Try the local specialties, chat with the friendly staff, and don’t be afraid to try new things. Who knows? You might discover your new favorite food! Bon appétit, or as they say in Quebec, bonne bouffe!
