French Restaurants in Québec City
Québec City’s culinary reputation draws deeply from its French heritage. Over the decades, many French chefs have made Québec City their home, bringing their traditions with them and letting them evolve in contact with the local terroir. In a city often described as the most European place in North America, French cuisine continues to flourish. Here’s a selection of restaurants serving classic and contemporary takes on France’s great culinary heritage.
@poletiene
1Le Continental
Come to Le Continental and experience one of the few examples of authentic au guéridon French tableside service in North America. Flames rise, aromas swirl, and classic French dishes take shape before diners in a precise, reassuring choreography. We love the theatricality of the service, the timelessness of the recipes, and the feeling of stepping into another century.
Le Saint-Amour
2Le Saint-Amour
At Le Saint-Amour, French savoir-faire meets Québec’s rich terroir with controlled elegance. Chef Jean-Luc Boulay embraces indulgence, crafting standout dishes with rich sauces and precise cooking techniques. The combination of European rigour and local products offers a refined yet welcoming experience. Must-tries include the fish, meat, and foie gras au torchon, all of which showcase the kitchen’s mastery and are sure to delight any palate.
Chez Boulay - bistro boréal
9Chez Boulay-bistro boréal
French cuisine meets Nordic inspiration at Chez Boulay, where the techniques are precise, the dishes are uncomplicated, and local products take centre stage, especially in the casseroles. We love this restaurant’s contemporary spirit that remains grounded in pleasure and good cheer. It’s a spot that broadens the concept of French cuisine rather than betraying it.
Entrecôte Saint-Jean
10Entrecôte Saint-Jean
L’Entrecôte Saint-Jean takes steak frites very seriously. The signature sauce, French-style matchstick fries, and classic bistro vibe promise an unfussy yet satisfying experience. We come here for the ritual, the consistency, and the unapologetic nod to Parisian tradition. It’s a unifying, laid-back restaurant.
Chez Temporel
17Chez Temporel
Chez Temporel serves classic French fare in a peaceful setting, with large windows opening onto a quiet city street. People come here for the comfort food and rare feeling of calm amidst the urban hustle and bustle. The cozy mood enhances the experience, but it’s the maple syrup tart that sparks conversation with its perfectly balanced, nostalgic flavours.
Groupe Grandio
3Café du Monde
Café du Monde has the spirit of a Parisian brasserie mingled with the maritime character of Québec City. We love the vibrant atmosphere, the well-executed bistro fare, and the spectacular view of the St. Lawrence River that’s only possible in Québec City. At Café du Monde, guests can dine on French classics with unhurried enjoyment in a grand setting that’s both lively and contemplative. Regulars keep coming back for favourites such as the mussels, steak frites, and crème brûlée.
Auberge Saint-Antoine
14Coteau
Located at Auberge Saint-Antoine, Coteau serves French cuisine in an exceptional historic setting. The elegant dishes are rooted in seasonal produce from the restaurant’s own garden and are presented with great attention to detail. Warmth and sophistication blend effortlessly here, creating a natural connection between traditional heritage and modern fine dining.
L'Échaudé
8L’Échaudé
L'Échaudé is one of those institutions that has stood the test of time while staying true to its roots. Its bistro fare is both faithful to tradition and open to reinvention, offering dishes with real depth and consistency. A standout wine list and a setting where regulars and first-timers mingle naturally make this Old Port favourite a sure bet for any occasion.
Bistro Saint-Malo
12Bistro Saint-Malo
French bistro-style fine dining meets Mediterranean flavours at Bistro Saint-Malo. The dishes feature carefully selected local ingredients and generous portions. There’s a clear desire to do things well, simply, and without artifice. This warm and inviting restaurant serves up French tradition infused with creativity and influences from around the world.
Café Krieghoff
11Café Krieghoff
Café Krieghoff is a neighbourhood landmark where French dishes share the menu seamlessly with Québécois and other fare. We love this café’s role as a gathering place, as well as its menu, which spans all hours of the day. It’s an iconic eatery in Montcalm where people come to enjoy a meal and share a moment. The homemade desserts are always a good choice—be sure to save room!
Le Hobbit
16Le Hobbit
Le Hobbit is an intimate restaurant where French cuisine is prepared with finesse. It has a cozy vibe conducive to lingering conversations and a menu full of consistently sophisticated dishes. We love this low-key restaurant for its understated elegance and genuine hospitality.
Le Billig
4Crêperie-bistro Le Billig
Le Billig brings the flavours of Brittany to Faubourg Saint-Jean-Baptiste, with generous crêpes filled with quality ingredients that celebrate traditional craftsmanship. This crêperie-bistro is sure to charm with its down-to-earth character, authentic recipes, and unassuming vibe. It’s a cozy place to experience French tradition through the satisfying simplicity of sweet and savoury crêpes.
Ludovic Gauthier
5Le Clocher Penché Bistrot
Le Clocher Penché reimagines the French bistro with Québécois flair. We come here for the balance of elegance and approachability, supported by an edited menu that lets the ingredients speak for themselves. The vibe is warm, the service is attentive, and each dish is crafted with palpable care. It’s bistro culture at its most spirited and genuine.
Mikael Lebleu - Tastet
6Melba
Melba offers a fresh, modern take on French cuisine, serving a refined menu in a welcoming space. We love this discreet restaurant’s careful approach, where French technique elevates light, meticulously crafted dishes. Melba is renowned for the way it balances flavours and for its attention to detail, from the kitchen to the dining room.
Groupe Restos Plaisirs
7Paris Grill
Paris Grill channels French inspiration through grilled meats, tartares, and well-executed classics. We love the energy, welcoming feel, and efficient neighbourhood bistro vibe here. The dishes are generous, straightforward, and no-frills—the eggs Benedict are a perfect example. It’s an inviting place to enjoy popular, gourmet French cuisine at any time of day.
Bistango
15Bistango
Bistango puts a modern twist on French bistro-style fine dining, serving accessible dishes that marry tradition and creativity, focusing on local ingredients. We love the friendly atmosphere, urban vibe, and authentic bistro spirit. This contemporary restaurant is perfect for business meals and gourmet adventures alike.
Restaurant La Girolle
13Restaurant La Girolle
La Girolle offers classic French cuisine in a friendly, casual setting. Its bring-your-own-wine policy adds to the relaxed ambiance, and its menu offers a selection of well-executed recipes. People come here for the sweetbreads and stay for the neighbourhood restaurant vibe.