Discover the culinary wonders of Quebec City with our curated guide to the best restaurants in the region. From chic bistros to hidden gems, explore the vibrant gastronomic scene that sets Quebec City apart.
When it comes to food in Canada, Quebec City stands as the country’s crown jewel.
The capital of Canada’s only francophone province boasts a culinary landscape that perfectly mirrors the culture and beauty of Canada’s second-oldest city. It’s a food culture that seamlessly blends Old World charm with contemporary flair. And it’s all pulled together with a measure of lumberjack heartiness.
Food in Quebec City combines some of Canada’s best fine dining experiences with hearty meals that are perfect for enduring the city’s long, cold winters. And in true Quebecois style, there is an element of celebration to just about every dish.
I’ve had the pleasure of dining in Quebec City countless times throughout my life. Each visit I make to this stunningly beautiful city opens a new opportunity to explore the city’s diverse culinary scene. I’ve dined at the city’s unique fast-food establishments, its incredible microbreweries, and some of its finest upscale dining experiences.
The best restaurants in Quebec City set themselves apart with their unwavering commitment to preserving culinary traditions while embracing innovation and excitement. The result is a diverse and exciting food scene that caters to everything from comfort to elegance.
This guide to the best places to eat in Quebec City starts at the bustling markets overflowing with fresh, locally sourced ingredients to the enchanting bistros and upscale restaurants. Quebec City restaurants invite visitors and locals alike to embark on a culinary journey that reflects the region’s unique history and cultural influences.
La Buche – Hearty Servings Of Quebecois Cuisine
If you have never taken the time to experience proper Quebecois food, La Buche is the perfect place to get your toes wet. La BucheThis restaurant is one of the most popular places to eat in Quebec City, not just for visitors but for locals as well.
At first glance, La Buche comes across as kitschy and maybe even a little bit tacky. But once the food is served, any preconceptions fly right out the window.
Canada is where 90% of the world’s maple syrup comes from. And within Canada, more than 70% of the sweet, sticky syrup comes from Quebec. La Buche offers a dive into the province’s sugar shack tradition, where everything from hearty shepherd’s pie to classic Quebec-style tourtiere comes with a sweet maple side.
If you’ve never had maple taffy before, this is one of the best places in the city to try this delicious treat, where thickened maple syrup is chilled to a sticky masterpiece on a bed of snow. The treat is wrapped onto a popsicle stick and enjoyed to the last drop.
Let me warn you about the portion sizes at La Buche. When I ate here last winter when I was exploring the Quebec City Christmas Markets, I was shocked. If you haven’t spent the day chopping lumber in Quebec’s vast forests, you’ll likely want to share.
Laurie Raphael – Exquisite Fine Dining In Lower Town
Tucked away, just steps from the waterfront in Quebec City’s lower town, sits one of my absolute favorite restaurants in Quebec City.
Laurie Raphael has an unassuming exterior that belies the world-class fine dining crafted by one of the greatest chefs in Quebec. Chef Daniel Vezina and his team welcome each guest with a friendly smile. They can do that because diners enter through the kitchen, a unique and wonderful way to introduce them to a dining experience that is somehow both elegant and welcoming.
The cuisine at Laurie Raphael delightfully plays with Quebecois classics such as Foie Gras and duck, which are masterfully presented in what can only be described as a full-sensory experience. For me, the artistic presentation made the dishes almost too beautiful to eat. But once I slid my fork into the food, the scents and taste took me to another dimension.
Each dish has an optional wine pairing, and the attention to detail of each serving somehow made the food at Laurie Raphael even more outstanding. One of the most unique pairings was a Japanese Sake that was paired with a duck confit. It was a pairing that I’d never considered before, but I’ll also never forget it.
My meal at Laurie Raphael stands as one of the best dining experiences that I’ve had the pleasure of enjoying.
Beyond its delectable dishes, Laurie Raphael maintains a commitment to sustainability. The restaurant actively collaborates with local farmers and producers to bring local ingredients to their fine dining establishment.
Sagamité – Creative Indigenous Cuisine In Wendake
A proud Indigenous heritage flows through the province of Quebec. Ten First Nations and the Inuit Nation are all represented within the province, but one of the most unique communities lies within the borders of Quebec City.
Sagamité has two locations in Quebec City. One is in the city’s old town, not far from the famous Chateau Frontenac. The other lies in the suburb of Wendake, a Wendat community that is the only First Nations community that lies within the borders of a major Canadian City.
The name Sagamité comes from a classic First Nations soup made from beans, hominy, herbs, and vegetables. It’s an important dish whose ingredients vary depending on the region and community that makes it.
Sagamité is owned by Niva and Steeve “Wadohandik” Gros-Louis, two members of the Huron-Wendat Nation. The food at this upscale dining experience melds the flavors of traditional Indigenous cuisine into a dining experience that guests won’t soon forget.
The food is delightfully presented and includes traditional favorites as well as game meat such as deer, elk, and bison.
Bistro Le Sam – Quality Casual At The Fairmont Chateau Frontenac
Situated in the world’s most photographed hotel, the Fairmont Chateau Frontenac, Le Sam Bistro is one of the most popular restaurants in Quebec City.
Serving up high-quality casual fare in a bistro-style atmosphere, Le Sam highlights local ingredients from nearby regions, including ile d’Orleans and Charlevoix.
Le Sam welcomes guests into an environment that blends modern flair and classic charm. Overlooking Quebec City’s lower town and the shimmering waters of the St. Lawrence River, this Quebec City restaurant offers a dining experience that seamlessly marries breathtaking views with an exquisite menu curated by talented chefs working in an open kitchen.
Le Sam Bistro’s commitment to excellence is evident in its diverse menu, which skillfully weaves together international influences and local flavors to create a culinary masterpiece that reflects the rich tapestry of Quebec’s gastronomic identity.
During my visit, I enjoyed my first stingray steak. It was beautifully presented and backed up by delicious scents and tastes. My one critique is that I’d love to see their beer menu feature some more local Quebec breweries.
Chez Biceps BBQ – High-Quality BBQ Inspired By The American South
One of Quebec City’s culinary hidden gems lies in a former pizzeria on Boul. Henri Bourassa in the l’Auvergne neighborhood.
Chez Biceps redefines the culinary landscape of Quebec City with unpretentious charm and some of the best barbecues north of the 49th parallel. This unassuming eatery has gained a devoted following for its commitment to exceptionally smoked meats.
I love that Chez Biceps doesn’t conform to the cultural norms of Quebecois cuisine. The owners have a deep love for quality BBQ, and chef Vincent Chatigny does it very, very well. The restaurant infuses a down-to-earth atmosphere with the irresistible aromas of low and slow grilling.
From tender briskets to succulent ribs, the menu at this off-the-beaten-path showcases a diverse array of grilled delights with a dedication to high quality and authentic southern style.
The restaurant’s laid-back ambiance and communal seating create a welcoming environment where BBQ lovers can come together in a community-driven environment. The unpretentious charm of Chez Biceps BBQ and its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients make it a standout in Quebec City’s culinary scene.
For those seeking a genuine and unadulterated barbecue experience that captures the essence of slow-cooked perfection, Chez Biceps BBQ proudly stands as one of the best and most beloved restaurants in the city.
Le 101 Restaurant de Quartier – Affordable Fine Dining In Saint Roch
Located in the busy Saint Roch neighborhood, Le 101 Restaurant de Quartier was a highlight of my most recent visit to Quebec City.
Le 101 is situated on Rue St. Joseph, outside of the busy tourist center. The tall ceilings, spacious interior, and accessible open kitchen make Le 101 incredibly approachable. While fine dining in Quebec City can be pricy, Head Chef Charles Gignac somehow serves up unique twists on French classics that are elegantly presented at an affordable price.
The restaurant seamlessly marries gourmet cuisine with reasonable prices, ensuring that patrons can indulge in an elevated culinary journey without breaking the bank. The restaurant’s dedication to offering a menu that caters to various tastes and budgets has earned it a well-deserved reputation as a go-to spot for those seeking the perfect blend of sophistication and affordability in Quebec City’s dynamic food scene.
Le 101 Restaurant de Quartier focuses on utilizing locally sourced, fresh ingredients that support the local community and ensure a quality product for the diner.
I enjoyed a five-course taster with wine pairing, and every serving was a journey that lay just outside of the ordinary while retaining enough familiarity to avoid a shock. They were truly exceptional plates.
Le 101 is one of the top restaurants in Quebec City for both locals and visitors alike, offering a chance to savor the pleasures of fine dining without compromise, proving that culinary excellence doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
Patente et Machin – Personality, Humor, and . . . Lots of Butter
Celebrated for its quirky charm, inventive spirit, and unapologetically unique character, Patente et Manchin is a local favorite among Quebec City restaurants, but it’s largely gone unnoticed by outsiders.
This hidden gem of a restaurant snubs its nose at convention, offering patrons an immersive experience that combines quirky humor with innovative menu choices such as using guinea fowl wings rather than chicken wings. Don’t leave without trying their sweetbreads.
The casual atmosphere invites conversation, and the food and drink choices encourage it. Pull up a seat at the bar, grab a glass of organic wine, and drink in the views of the kitchen, preparing dishes with a measure of chaos, creativity, and finesse.
The restaurant, founded in 2012, has an ever-evolving many where culinary boundaries are constantly pushed. It’s one of three restaurants that Chef Francois Jobin and co-proprietor Benoit Fortin Lyonnais run in Quebec City. Eclectic decor, mismatched furniture, and exciting artwork paint a scene that compliments the creative flair in the kitchen.
Chez Gaston – Greasy Spoon Poutine Exactly As It’s Meant To Be
Among all of the famous food in Quebec City, no single dish holds more reverence than the classic poutine. This dish of French fried potatoes topped with a generous portion of cheese curds and piping hot beef gravy has taken the world by storm.
Poutine can be found in many forms now. It’s a dish that has taken on a life of its own with variations nearly as wild as the Canadian Caesar drink or the American Bloody Mary. But if you’ve never tasted poutine before, you have to start with the classic. And there’s no better serving of classic poutine in Quebec City than this hole-in-the-wall in the Saint-Roch neighborhood.
Chez Gaston is a tiny greasy spoon that serves up traditional diner fare. But there’s no dish that they are more famous for than their classic poutine. The restaurant serves up crispy French fries smothered in quality Quebec cheese curds and rich beef gravy.
Pull up a seat at the counter or grab a dish for takeaway, but make sure to take the time to savor that first bite. It’s unforgettable.
Chez Boulay – Nordic Cuisine With A French Twist
Chez Boulay may just be the best table in the heart of the old city. This premier dining establishment has earned an incredible reputation through its commitment to culinary excellence and a dedication to showcasing The Quebec City region’s best flavors.
Led by renowned chefs Jean-Luc Boulay and Arnaud Marchand, Chez Boulay has become one of the most popular fine dining experiences in Quebec City. Crafting Nordic cuisine with a French accent, the restaurant pays homage to the province’s rich food traditions.
The menu is a symphony of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, skillfully combined to create dishes that not only excite the taste buds but also tell a story of the region’s cultural and gastronomic heritage.
The staff are able to explain the significance of the local ingredients as well. I highly recommend the walleye and the scallops with cauliflower. The seal pate and sweet fern profiterole show a commitment to sustainable ingredients from the nearby St. Lawrence River.
Each dish offers a blend of flavors, artfully presented in a warm and welcoming ambiance. Their emphasis on using seasonal, organic produce highlights a commitment to sustainability and a connection to the local community.
With a menu that evolves with the changing seasons, Chez Boulay ensures a dynamic and ever-refreshing culinary experience.
Tanière3 – A Hidden Secret Loved By Locals
I wish that I had the opportunity, time, and money to experience all of the best restaurants in Quebec City. But alas, I’m just one man. Luckily, though, I have some amazing friends, including the wonderful Pamela McNaughtan, the founder of Urban Guide Quebec, who volunteered to share her favorite Quebec City restaurant. Her choice is Tanière3 on Rue Saint-Pierre.
She writes:
There is no sign outside, just a yellow door set into an 18th-century building with a keypad on the left side.
Residing in an arched stone cellar underneath Bistro l’Origyne, Tanière3 serves a 15 to 20-course tasting menu featuring Québec cuisine. Chef François-Emmanuel Nicol is a master of flavor and one of the nicest chefs around.
Guests begin in the Charest Vault for a welcome cocktail and small courses, then move into another space for the dinner courses. For a truly unforgettable dining experience, book the chef’s table. There are high-back white leather chairs, table-side chats with the chef and sommelier, and a peek at the staff in action.
The menu changes, but there is one dish that has been served since day one, Nobel: Raphaëlle potatoes topped with thinly sliced scallops and caviar. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime type of experience and worth every single dollar (you will want to go back).
Hono Izakaya – Exquisite Japanese Sharables
Not every Quebec City restaurant has a French twist. In fact, international cuisine is incredibly popular in the city. And with a menu that reflects meticulous attention to detail, Hono Izakaya is one of the best.
Hono Izakaya offers an immersive experience that goes beyond the traditional Japanese dining experience, creating an ambiance that effortlessly combines modern sophistication with the warmth of Japanese hospitality.
The menu features an array of shareable small plates and sushi creations paired with expertly poured cocktails and artisan sodas that showcase the culinary team’s dedication to authenticity and innovation.
The restaurant not only excels in crafting sushi masterpieces but also curates a menu that extends beyond the expected, offering a diverse selection of hot and cold dishes such as yakitori, Butabara, and Karaage curry that cater to a range of tastes.
The atmosphere inside Hono Izakaya is cozy yet stylish. And you won’t feel rushed to leave. The meals are complemented by an extensive sake and cocktail list, creating an ambiance that invites patrons to linger and savor the artistry of each dish.
Discover The Top Quebec City Restaurants For Yourself
Quebec City is a wonder for lovers of culinary tourism. Every time I visit this beautiful city, I’m introduced to new, exciting, and innovative cuisine crafted by chefs who understand and love the city, its history, and its flavors. These Quebec City restaurants are just a drop in the bucket for foodies in the city, making this one of the best foodie destinations in the world.
If we missed your favorite restaurant, don’t hesitate to drop a comment below, and I’ll be sure to check it out on my next visit to Quebec City.
Disclosure: Some of these restaurants were visited with the support of Destination Quebec Cite. All opinions remain my own.
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