Guide to the Best Restaurants and Where to Eat Québec City/Ville de Québec
Québec City has no shortage of amazing restaurants. Your only problem will be deciding where to eat! We did a fair share of exploring the delicious dining Québec has to offer. Québec City ranks among the 20 World’s Best Food Cities according to the readers of the Condé Nast Traveler and we really found it to be a foodie’s paradise. At the heart of Québec City is a deep connection to history and tradition yet it is mixed with the modern. And the culinary style here is much the same. You’ll find restaurants that channel traditional (which involves a strong commitment to local and fresh produce) while embracing new technique and innovation. Here is a list of our favorite restaurants in Québec City that range from a Five Star dining experience to cheap eats that will blow your mind. Even though I’m a luxury travel girl, I do make an exception for any good food. You’ll find me wherever the most delicious food is. You’ll find the perfect meal for every craving in Québec City right here in our guide for where to eat.
In the interest of full disclosure, because honesty is the best policy, I was hosted on this trip by Quebec City Tourism so I could share the sites and experiences QC has to offer with my amazing blog followers. I was not paid any additional compensation and all opinions (as always) are my own but lots of free stuff. That said, as an experienced blogger, it still takes alot to impress moi. Just ask my hubby!
Le Saint-Amour
Le Saint-Amour is one of the top fine-dining restaurants in Québec City and is regarded as one of the most romantic restaurants as well. Dishes at Le Saint-Amour are vibrant and creative while still retaining culinary traditions of the area. The indoor garden with its high glass ceiling are absolutely stunning.
Affaire des Ketchups
This is a quirky spot with only 8 tables that I found out about from 3 locals we became friendly with. Book ahead and trust the chefs who have a rotating menu that changes by season (or based on the chef’s whim). The name refers to a French idiom that translates to “everything is cool” (not actual Ketchup) and we happen to agree. Its sister restaurant Patente et Machin is also supposed to be superb as well. Next time we’re in Quebec City, that’s where you’ll find me.
Laurie Raphaël
Laurie Raphaël is one of the most special restaurants not just in Québec City but in the world that I’ve ever been to. Recently reopened after a major makeover, the ambiance is nothing short of exquisite and the tasting menu will truly blow your mind. Dining here at Laurie Raphaël is not just a meal, it’s an experience–a feast for all the senses. I predict it won’t be long until the new Laurie Raphaël becomes an international foodie destination.
Savini Resto-Bar Vinothèque
If you want to glitz and glamour check out Savini-Resto-Bar. It will make you feel like you’re in the heart of Miami, Florida. Savor delicious Italian cuisine in a sophisticated dining establishment that boasts extensive wine offerings. We personally love the covered patio where you can people watch along the Grande Allée.
Bistro Le Sam at the Fairmont
No visit to Québec City is complete without a visit to the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Bistro Le Sam has incredible, casual cuisine and some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River.
Panache at the Auberge Saint-Antoine
Panache is housed in the Auberge Saint-Antoine Hotel in a restored riverside warehouse from the 1800s. Panache serves a menu committed to telling the story of the French-Canadian heritage. Its dishes utilize produce from the restaurant’s own organic garden. The elegant restaurant overlooks the St. Lawrence River (and soon enough there will be a park right outside). The wine list here is impressive so don’t forget to order yourself a bottle of wine.
Bati-Bassak
Make reservations at this local favorite if you want to snag a table and sample delectable Thai and Cambodian dishes. It’s a relaxed environment and a bit off the tourist track and the food can’t be beat–I was quite surprised to find such a great meal. I highly recommend the coconut soup and the curry Pad Thai.
Soup et Cie
This restaurant offers a vast array of oversized soup bowls filled with mouth-watering yet healthy ingredients. Not only is the soup some of the best comfort food you’ll ever have, but the atmosphere and staff are friendly and inviting too. We considered coming back here again at some point during our trip because we loved it so much. The perfect spot after a long day of touring.
Buffet de L’Antiquaire
This diner serves a mean breakfast morning, noon and night. It’s hearty home-style dining in the heart of the antique district. They also serve up some traditional and homemade Canadian dishes like the pea soup and sugar pie.
Nina Pizzeria Napolitaine
This low-town pizza joint serves thin-crust, wood-fired pizza just like they do in Naples! The ingredients are quality and the owners know what they’re doing. Salads, charcuterie and cheese boards are also delicious.
Le Cochon Dingue
This spot is an institution for over 30 years in Québec City. The restaurant is famous for its breakfasts, lobster rolls, ribs and seafood pot pie. Oh and the sugar pie here (and really all the desserts) are worth the splurge.
Crêperie-bistro Le Billig
A neighborhood eatery with no frills serves up perfect crêpes worth writing home about.
Paillard
Québec City’s “french charm” is hard to resist and its bakeries are even more difficult to resist! Paillard is known around town as the best of the best and their chocolate croissant is a can’t miss!
Don’t forget to check out our guide for what to do and see in Québec City.
so much more to paillard than bakery. sandwiches, chocolates, jams and house made ice cream. the prices are fantastic, plenty of cool seating and great coffee. If you are going to review, then review! did you actually set foot in the premises??
your blog sucks man. is it about luxe travel or bla bla bla, me, me, me. procreated yay, wow. so special. blech
- June 15, 2016It’s a personal blog, that’s what I do. If you don’t want a personal story you are more than free to not return and look at larger travel sites. Wish you the best!
- January 3, 2017Hi Travelpanties ,
- November 30, 2018A wonderful informative post you have shared on this page about Saint-Antoine Hotel in a restored riverside warehouse from the 1800s. Panache serves a menu committed to telling the story of the French-Canadian heritage. Its dishes utilize produce from the restaurant’s own organic garden. The elegant restaurant overlooks the St. Lawrence River (and soon enough there will be a park right outside). The wine list here is impressive so don’t forget to order yourself a bottle of wine.
Thanks.