Quebec City: Old Quebec Food Tasting and Drink Walking Tour

If you’re craving a taste of authentic Quebec City, this food and drink walking tour is an excellent way to combine culinary delights with a sprinkle of local history. We haven’t taken the tour ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it offers a well-rounded experience for food lovers and curious travelers alike.

What stands out first are the diverse tastings—from hearty poutine to delicate Québecois desserts—and the knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s culinary scene and history to life. We also appreciate its value for money, offering a flavorful three hours that don’t just fill your stomach but also deepen your understanding of Quebec’s culture.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, so it’s best suited for those comfortable walking and standing during the stops. Overall, if you enjoy tasting local specialties, learning stories behind the dishes, and exploring Old Quebec’s streets, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Varied Tastings: Multiple stops with unique food and drink options, including traditional Québécois dishes and contemporary twists.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness, humor, and deep knowledge of Quebec City’s history and cuisine.
• Authentic Experiences: Visits include local favorites, a rustic sugar shack, a distillery, and a historic house, providing a genuine taste of Quebec life.
• Value for Money: At $115 per person for three hours, the tour offers a good mix of food, drinks, and cultural insight—many reviews highlight its worth.
• Small Groups: Typically around 8 participants, creating an intimate atmosphere for conversation and personalized attention.
• Flexible Booking: Options to reserve now and pay later, with a full refund available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This three-hour walk through Old Quebec packs in five unique stops, each designed to give you a taste of local life and flavors. You’ll meet your guide right outside La Buchette, ready to lead you through a curated culinary journey.

First stop — a two-course appetizer: Starting with a modern take on Québécois ingredients, you’ll enjoy a dish featuring Lions Mane mushrooms paired with duck breast carpaccio. This sets the tone for the tour—combining local ingredients with contemporary presentation, something many reviewers appreciate as a fresh twist on traditional flavors.

Traditional starters — pea soup and pâté chinois: These staples of Quebec comfort food show off the hearty side of local cuisine. The pea soup is likely rich and warming, perfect for a chilly day, while pâté chinois—layered meat, corn, and mashed potatoes—brings the homely charm of French Canadian cooking.

A visit to a 200-year-old house: Here, you’ll indulge in a bistro-style meal, complete with brisket, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and gravy. This stop promises a cozy, historic atmosphere that many reviewers describe as charming and authentic.

Sweet treats — sucre à la crème and croissants: No tour of Quebec would be complete without dessert. You’ll sample sucre à la crème, a rich, creamy caramel confection, and perhaps try some of the city’s famed croissants, often hailed as among the best in the region.

Poutine and local gin: The tour wraps up with what might be Quebec’s most iconic dish—poutine, topped with cheese curds and gravy, paired with a local Québécois gin. On Sundays and Mondays, instead of poutine, you might enjoy lobster bisque with a glass of white wine (a nice variation), which keeps the experience fresh and interesting.

Drinks and Additional Tastes

The inclusion of a glass of wine and gin adds a relaxing touch to the tour. Several reviews mention the excellent wine selections and the friendliness of the guides in explaining local beverages. For those avoiding alcohol, mocktail options are available, making the experience accessible to non-drinkers or those with dietary restrictions.

The Guides and Atmosphere

Multiple reviews rave about the guides’ knowledge, humor, and friendliness. Guests report being well-informed about Quebec’s history and cuisine, which elevates the tasting experience from merely eating to learning about the city’s culture. Guides like Maude, Vincent, and Pamela are frequently praised for their personable approach, making the experience both fun and educational.

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The Stops and Restaurants

The tour visits food spots that are popular with locals, a big plus for those who want a genuine taste of the city away from tourist traps. Each restaurant or stop is prepared for groups, ensuring a smooth experience. Some reviews mention the restaurants expecting the tour participants, which indicates good planning and reputation.

Group Size and Duration

With groups generally kept small—around eight people—there’s space for conversations, questions, and personalized attention. The 3-hour length is just right for sampling enough without feeling rushed. The tour usually runs in the morning or afternoon, fitting nicely into a day of sightseeing.

Practical Details and Value

Price-wise, $115 per person for food, drinks, and a guided experience is reasonable considering the quality and variety of tastings. Many reviews highlight the good value, especially since the tour combines culinary exploration with cultural stories that enrich your visit.

The cancellation policy is user-friendly, allowing full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Booking flexibility is a plus, especially for travelers with unpredictable schedules.

Note that this tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues, as it involves walking and standing through Old Quebec’s cobblestone streets and historic buildings. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy wandering through charming streets and trying new foods.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for foodies eager to taste Quebec’s specialties and learn about their origins. It’s also great for history buffs who enjoy pairing culinary stories with cultural context. The intimate setting and knowledgeable guides make it ideal for small groups or families traveling together.

If you’re visiting Quebec City and want to get a deeper sense of local life through its flavors, this tour offers a fun, tasty, and informative introduction.

The Sum Up

The Quebec City: Old Quebec Food Tasting and Drink Walking Tour offers a well-balanced peek into the city’s food scene, with enough variety to satisfy both the palate and curiosity. The combination of delicious tastings, friendly guides, and historic ambiance makes it a standout experience for anyone serious about experiencing Quebec beyond its iconic sights.

It’s especially suited for those who love authentic local dishes, are up for walking, and appreciate guided stories that bring the city’s past and present together. Many reviewers highlight the good value, excellent food, and knowledgeable guides as key reasons to set aside this time during your trip.

This tour is a true immersion in Quebec’s culinary culture—delicious, educational, and fun. Perfect for first-time visitors or seasoned travelers looking to add flavor and stories to their Quebec City adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
The tour focuses on traditional Québécois dishes, which often include meat, dairy, and seafood. For specific dietary needs, it’s best to contact the provider directly to see if substitutions are possible.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, the booking is flexible. You can reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours ahead.

How much walking does the tour involve?
The tour involves walking through Old Quebec’s streets, visiting five different stops, and standing during tastings. It’s suitable for those comfortable with light to moderate walking.

What is included in the price?
For $115, you get a guided walk, five food and drink tastings, plus a glass of wine and a glass of gin. A guide will accompany you throughout.

Are alcohols included, and can they be substituted?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a glass of wine and gin; if you prefer, mocktail options are available.

What if I don’t drink alcohol?
Mocktail options can be provided, ensuring everyone enjoys the experience.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most reviews mention travelers of various ages, including families with teens. However, it’s best for those comfortable with walking and small portions of alcohol-free tastings.

Will I get enough food?
Yes. The tour includes multiple courses and diverse tastings, often described as filling and satisfying.

What makes this tour different from just exploring on my own?
The guided aspect provides insights into Quebec City’s history and culture that you might miss alone, plus the curated stops ensure you taste the best local flavors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours before the tour date.

This detailed exploration of the Quebec City food and drink tour highlights why it remains a top choice for travelers wanting an authentic, flavorful, and educational experience in Old Quebec. It offers a perfect blend of culinary discovery and cultural storytelling, making it a memorable part of any trip to this beautiful city.

You can check availability for your dates here: