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Québec City food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Québec City.
What to eat in Québec City
5 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Poutine
A beloved Québécois classic featuring french fries and cheese curds topped with a rich brown gravy. It's a hearty, comforting dish that's a must-try for any visitor.
Tourtière
A traditional meat pie, often made with pork, beef, or game, seasoned with spices like cinnamon and cloves. This savory pie is a staple during holidays but enjoyed year-round.
Cretons
A pork spread seasoned with onions, spices, and sometimes apples or maple syrup. It's typically served as a breakfast item, spread on toast.
Maple Taffy (Tire sur la neige)
Hot maple syrup poured onto snow to create a chewy, toffee-like candy. It's a quintessential taste of Quebec's sugar shacks and a delightful sweet treat.
Smoked Meat Sandwich
Thinly sliced, cured, and smoked beef brisket, typically served on rye bread with mustard. While Montreal is famous for it, Québec City offers excellent versions.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Historic charm and upscale dining
Trendy, bohemian, and vibrant
Picturesque and romantic
Lively and upscale nightlife
Dietary notes
Traditional Québécois cuisine is quite meat-centric, with dishes like tourtière and cretons featuring prominently. However, vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available, especially in Saint-Roch and around the Grand Marché de Québec, with many restaurants offering plant-based alternatives or dedicated vegan menus.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is customary in restaurants and bars; 15-20% is standard for good service.
- •While many places accept cards, carrying some cash can be useful for smaller vendors or markets.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends or during peak tourist season.
- •It's polite to greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff with a 'Bonjour' upon entering and 'Merci, au revoir' upon leaving.
Plan the rest of your Québec City trip
Food guides elsewhere