Tasting Québec: Iconic Foods from Québec City and Montréal

Table of Contents

Introduction

Québecois cuisine offers a delightful blend of French heritage and local ingredients, creating a unique and flavourful culinary tradition. During my recent visit to Québec City and Montréal with my son, we had the pleasure of sampling a wide array of iconic Québecois foods. Our journey through these vibrant cities, known for their rich history and cultural significance, was filled with memorable culinary experiences.

In this post, “Tasting Québec: Iconic Foods from Québec City and Montréal,” we’ll explore the must-try savoury and sweet dishes that define Québecois cuisine. From traditional meat and game dishes to delectable pastries and sweets, Québec’s food scene is a testament to its diverse cultural influences and dedication to culinary excellence.

Location

Québec is the largest province in Canada by area, located in the eastern part of the country. Ontario borders it to the west, Newfoundland and Labrador to the northeast, New Brunswick to the southeast, and the U.S. states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York to the south. To the north, it reaches into the Hudson Strait and Ungava Bay. The province is renowned for its predominantly French-speaking population and rich cultural heritage.

Québec City is the capital of Québec province, situated on the north bank of the Saint Lawrence River. It was founded in 1608 and is one of the oldest European settlements in North America. Québec City is known for its historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site with charming cobblestone streets, fortified city walls, and significant landmarks like the Château Frontenac.

Montréal is the largest city in Québec province, located on the Island of Montréal at the confluence of the Saint Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers. It is named after Mount Royal, the triple-peaked hill in the heart of the city. Montréal is a major cultural and financial hub in Canada, known for its vibrant arts scene and diverse neighbourhoods.

Québec Savoury Dishes: Meat and Game

Photo of the exterior of La Buche restaurant in Quebec City.

Enhanced photo of Deer Tartare and Scallops with Pork Belly.

Venison: Deer Tartare

Deer tartare, or venison tartare, is a unique and sophisticated dish that showcases raw venison’s rich, gamey flavours. It is prepared with finely minced or diced venison and various seasonings, such as capers, onions, and mustard. Sometimes, a raw egg yolk tops the dish or is blended into the meat. The preparation highlights the fresh, tender quality of the meat, providing a delicate yet robust flavour profile that is both savoury and slightly sweet.

During my visit to Québec City with my son, we had an exceptional deer tartare at La Buche, a restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Québécois cuisine. The dish was memorable for its perfect balance of flavours and the high quality of the venison. La Buche is a top recommendation for those looking to experience this gourmet delight. In Montréal, Au Pied de Cochon is also celebrated for its innovative approach to traditional Québécois dishes, including venison tartare.

Tourtière

Tourtière is a quintessential Québécois dish, traditionally served during the Christmas season but enjoyed year-round. This savoury meat pie typically combines ground pork, veal, or beef with spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, all encased in a flaky pastry crust. The filling can also include potatoes and onions, creating a hearty, flavourful, comforting, and satisfying dish.

The origins of tourtière date back to the early French settlers in Québec, thus making it a dish rich in history and cultural significance. It reflects the resourcefulness of early Québécois cooks, who used local ingredients to create a nourishing and festive meal.

For the best tourtière, Aux Anciens Canadiens in Québec City is a renowned spot, offering an authentic taste of this traditional dish. In Montréal, La Binerie Mont-Royal serves a delicious version that stays true to its roots.

Photo of the exterior of the Aux Anciens Canadiens Restaurant in Quebec City.

Digital illustration of tourtiere, using graphic elements, textures, text, and a stock image.

Pâté Chinois (Cottage Pie)

Pâté chinois, also known as Québecois cottage pie, is a beloved comfort food that layers ground beef, creamed corn, and mashed potatoes. The dish is a staple in many Québec households and is known for its simplicity and heartiness. The origin of its name is somewhat of a mystery. Still, some believe the name was influenced by Chinese railroad workers in the 19th century who prepared similar meals using available ingredients.

This dish perfectly represents Québecois comfort food, combining familiar, homey, and universally appealing flavours. The ground beef layer is often seasoned with onions and sometimes bell peppers, providing a savoury base that contrasts beautifully with the sweet creamed corn and creamy mashed potatoes.

For an excellent pâté chinois, head to La Binerie Mont-Royal in Montréal, a charming diner that serves traditional Québécois dishes. In Québec City, Le Buffet de l’Antiquaire offers a cozy atmosphere and a delectable rendition of this comforting classic.

Digital illustration of Pate Chinois, using graphic elements, textures, text, and a stock image.

Québec Savoury Dishes: Seafood

Cuisses de Grenouilles (Frog’s Legs)

Frog’s legs, or cuisses de grenouilles, are a delicacy in Québec cuisine, reflecting the region’s French culinary heritage. They are typically prepared by marinating the legs in garlic, herbs, and lemon juice, then coating them in flour before pan-frying until golden and crispy. The result is tender, flavourful meat with a texture similar to chicken but with a slightly fishy taste.

For a taste of this delicacy, Le Club Chasse et Pêche in Montréal is known for its refined approach to traditional dishes, including frog’s legs. In Québec City, Légende offers a modern twist on classic recipes, making it a great spot to try cuisses de grenouilles.

Digital illustration of Frog Legs, using graphic elements, textures, text, and a stock image.

Digital illustration of Coquille Saint-Jacques, using graphic elements, textures, text, and a stock image.

Scallops and Coquille Saint-Jacques

Scallops, particularly Coquille Saint-Jacques, are a luxurious seafood dish that highlights the delicate sweetness of scallops paired with rich, creamy sauces. The classic Coquille Saint-Jacques preparation involves scallops cooked in a creamy wine sauce, often with mushrooms, topped with breadcrumbs and cheese, and then baked until golden.

During my visit to Québec City, my son and I enjoyed an outstanding dish at La Buche: pan-seared scallops served with maple-glazed pork belly. This combination of tender scallops and the sweet-savoury pork belly was one of the best dishes I’ve encountered in my travels.

Le Continental in Québec City offers an elegant dining experience for more traditional Coquille Saint-Jacques. In Montréal, Le Club Chasse et Pêche also provides an exquisite version of this classic dish.

Guédilles (Lobster Rolls)

Guédilles, or lobster rolls, are popular in Québec, especially in coastal areas. These rolls feature fresh lobster meat mixed with mayonnaise, lemon juice, and sometimes celery, served in a soft, toasted bun. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the sweetness of the lobster to shine.

For a great lobster roll, try Le Chic Shack in Québec City. It is a favourite spot known for its fresh and flavourful guédilles. In Montréal, Lucille’s Oyster Dive offers a delicious version, perfect for seafood lovers.

Escargots (Snails)

Escargots, or snails, are another French-inspired delicacy found in Québec. They are typically prepared by cooking the snails in a rich garlic and herb butter, then serving them in their shells or in small dishes. The result is a savoury, melt-in-your-mouth experience that highlights the earthy flavours of the snails.

To try escargots, visit Au Pied de Cochon in Montréal, which is renowned for its inventive take on traditional dishes. In Québec City, Le Continental offers a classic preparation of escargots in garlic butter, providing an authentic taste of this gourmet treat.

These seafood dishes showcase the diverse and rich culinary traditions of Québec, making them must-tries for any food enthusiast visiting the region.

Québec Savoury Dishes: Soups

French Onion Soup (Soupe à l’Oignon)

French Onion Soup is a quintessential Québecois dish with roots in classic French cuisine. It is characterized by its rich, deep flavours derived from slowly caramelized onions, beef broth, and a splash of wine or brandy. The soup is traditionally topped with a slice of baguette and a generous layer of melted Gruyère or Emmental cheese, broiled to create a golden, bubbling crust.

For an authentic experience, visit Au Petit Coin Breton on rue Saint-Jean in Québec City, where you can enjoy a perfectly crafted bowl of French Onion Soup. This cozy bistro is known for its warm ambiance and attention to traditional recipes. In Montréal, L’Express offers an exceptional version with a flavourful broth and perfectly melted cheese.

Digital illustration of iconic French Onion Soup, using graphic elements, textures, text, and a stock image.

Digital illustration of iconic Quebecois Pea Soup, using graphic elements, textures, text, and a stock image.

Pea Soup (Soupe aux Pois)

Pea Soup, or Soupe aux Pois, is a traditional Québecois dish that dates back to the early French settlers. It is typically made with yellow split peas, ham hock or salted pork, vegetables like carrots and onions, and seasoned with savoury herbs. This hearty soup is slow-cooked to develop a rich, comforting flavour and a thick, creamy texture.

You can find excellent versions of Pea Soup at Aux Anciens Canadiens in Québec City, a restaurant celebrated for its dedication to traditional Québecois cuisine. Their recipe stays true to the dish’s historical roots, providing a taste of Québec’s culinary heritage. In Montréal, La Binerie Mont-Royal offers a rustic, homestyle version that captures the essence of this classic soup.

These soups provide warmth, comfort, and a deep connection to Québec’s rich culinary traditions.

Québec Street Food and Snacks

Photo of the interior of Schwartz's Deli in Montreal.

Enhanced photo of the iconic Montreal Smoked Meat Sandwich from Schwartz's Deli in Montreal.

Montréal-Smoked Meat Sandwich

Montréal-Smoked Meat Sandwiches are an iconic part of the city’s culinary landscape. This sandwich features tender, flavourful smoked meat, typically brisket, which is cured and smoked, then piled high on rye bread and traditionally served with mustard. A visit to Schwartz’s Deli is a must to experience this classic. Founded in 1928, Schwartz’s is renowned for its smoked meat, offering a perfect balance of spices and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Don’t forget to pair your sandwich with a big sour pickle for the full experience.

Photo of iconic Classic Poutine and a "Steamie" from La Banquise in Montreal.

Montréal Hot Dogs (Steamies)

Montréal hot dogs, affectionately known as steamies, are a beloved snack in the city. These hot dogs are steamed, producing a soft, tender bun and juicy sausage. Often topped with a variety of condiments like mustard, coleslaw, and chopped onions, steamies are a popular choice for a quick, satisfying meal. La Banquise, famous for its poutine, also serves an excellent steamie, making it a great spot to enjoy this local favourite. The combination of a steamie and poutine at La Banquise is a quintessential Montréal experience.

Poutine

Poutine is perhaps the most iconic Québecois dish, featuring crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy. This comfort food has a special place in Québec’s culinary heart and can be found in various forms throughout the province. La Banquise in Montréal is a legendary poutine destination, offering a vast array of poutine varieties alongside the classic version. The hearty and satisfying combination of flavours makes poutine a must-try when visiting Québec.

Creton

Creton is a traditional Québecois breakfast spread made from ground pork, onions, and spices, cooked down into a rich, creamy paste. It is typically spread on toast or bread and is a staple at many Québecois breakfast tables. My fondness for creton began while working at a gold mine in Northern Ontario, where it was a breakfast favourite among the Québecois workers. The creamy texture and savoury flavour make it a comforting start to the day.

Savoury Crêpes

Savoury crêpes are a versatile and delicious option for any meal. Various ingredients can fill these thin pancakes, from ham and cheese to mushrooms and spinach. My son and I enjoyed a delightful brunch of savoury crêpes at Au Petit Coin Breton in Québec City. This cozy bistro offers a range of crêpes with different fillings, making it a perfect spot to savour this versatile dish. The delicate crêpes and flavourful fillings provide a satisfying and memorable meal.

Montréal Bagels

Montréal bagels are a must-try when visiting the city. Unlike their New York counterparts, Montréal bagels are smaller, denser, and slightly sweeter, often boiled in honey-sweetened water before being baked in a wood-fired oven. St-Viateur Bagel is one of the most famous spots to enjoy these delightful bagels. Founded in 1957, St-Viateur Bagel offers a variety of bagels that are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, perfect with cream cheese or simply on their own.

These street foods and snacks capture the essence of Québec’s vibrant culinary culture, offering a taste of the province’s rich traditions and diverse flavours.

Québec Cheese

Québec is renowned for its diverse and high-quality cheese production, offering a variety of flavours and textures that delight cheese enthusiasts. Here are a few notable examples:

Oka

Oka is one of the most famous cheeses from Québec, originally made by Trappist monks in the village of Oka. This semi-soft cheese has a distinctive orange rind and a rich, creamy texture with a nutty, buttery flavour. It’s a classic that has been enjoyed for over a century and is a staple in many Québecois households.

L’Ermite

L’Ermite is a blue cheese produced by the Benedictine monks of the Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac. This cheese is known for its creamy texture and robust, tangy flavour, making it a favourite among blue cheese lovers. The monks have produced this high-quality cheese since the 1940s, using traditional methods refined over decades.

Le Riopelle de l’Isle

Le Riopelle de l’Isle is a triple-cream cheese named after the famous Québecois painter Jean-Paul Riopelle. This cheese offers a smooth, buttery taste with hints of hazelnuts and mushrooms, making it a luxurious choice for any cheese board. Its rich, creamy texture and complex flavour profile have made it my personal favourite among Québec cheeses.

Cheese Shops and Markets in Québec

There are numerous cheese shops and markets throughout the province for those looking to explore the wide variety of Québec cheeses. Fromagerie Hamel in Montréal and La Fromagerie des Grondines in Québec City are excellent places to start. These shops offer a curated selection of local cheeses, allowing visitors to sample and purchase some of the finest dairy products Québec has to offer.

In addition to these specialty shops, many local markets, such as Marché Jean-Talon in Montréal, feature vendors selling a diverse array of Québec cheeses. These markets provide an excellent opportunity to discover new favourites and experience the region’s rich cheese-making heritage.

Whether you’re a cheese aficionado or a curious foodie, the cheeses of Québec offer a delicious journey into the province’s culinary traditions.

Québec Pastries and Sweets

Québec is known not only for its savoury dishes but also for its delightful array of pastries and sweets that reflect its rich culinary heritage. Here are some must-try Québecois desserts and where to find them:

Sweet Crêpes

Sweet crêpes are a versatile and beloved dessert in Québec. They are often filled with a variety of ingredients, such as fresh fruits, chocolate, and maple syrup. These thin, delicate pancakes are perfect for a light yet satisfying treat. My son and I had delicious sweet crêpes at Au Petit Coin Breton in Québec City, which is renowned for its authentic French crêpes. This cozy bistro offers a wide selection of both sweet and savoury crêpes, making it a must-visit for crêpe enthusiasts.

Tarte au Sucre

Tarte au Sucre, or sugar pie, is a traditional Québecois dessert with a rich, sweet filling made from brown sugar, cream, and sometimes maple syrup, all nestled in a buttery crust. This pie is a testament to the province’s love for simple, comforting sweets. At La Buche in Québec City, we enjoyed a raspberry-garnished version of this classic dessert that added a delightful tartness to the sweet, creamy filling.

Kouign-Amann

Kouign-Amann is a decadent pastry from Brittany in France. It is made from laminated dough with layers of butter and sugar. Its name comes from the Breton words “kouign,” meaning cake, and “amann,” meaning butter. This pastry is known for its caramelized crust and tender, flaky interior. To taste this indulgent treat without travelling to Brittany, visit the bakery Kouign-Amann in Montréal. They specialize in this iconic pastry, offering an authentic experience right in the heart of the city.

Sucre à la Crème (Sugar Fudge)

Sucre à la Crème is a beloved Québecois confection that resembles fudge but with a smoother, creamier texture. This sweet treat is made from sugar, cream, and butter. It melts in your mouth and is often found at local markets and specialty shops. For an authentic taste, try the sucre à la crème at Marché Jean-Taloni n Montréal, where many vendors offer this traditional dessert.

Digital illustration of Sucre a la Creme, using graphic elements, textures, text, and a stock image.

Maple Syrup and Maple Taffy (Tire sur Neige)

Maple syrup is a quintessential element of Québec cuisine, with the province producing 72% of the world’s supply. A variety of dishes and desserts make use of this sweet amber syrup. One unique way to enjoy it is as maple taffy, or tire sur neige, where hot maple syrup is poured over snow to create a chewy, caramel-like treat. This experience can often be enjoyed at sugar shacks (cabane à sucre) throughout Québec, especially during the sugaring-off season in spring.

Pouding Chômeur

Pouding Chômeur, or “unemployed man’s pudding,” is a simple yet comforting dessert that originated during the Great Depression. It consists of a cake-like batter baked in a sweet syrup, creating a luscious, sticky pudding. At La Buche in Québec City, we had a surprising version topped with a rich piece of foie gras, adding an unexpected touch of luxury to this humble dessert.

Queues de Castor (Beavertails Pastry)

Queues de Castor are a popular Canadian treat that originated in Ontario but are widely enjoyed in Québec. These pastries are shaped like a beaver’s tail and fried until crispy, then topped with a variety of sweet toppings like cinnamon sugar, chocolate, and maple butter. They can be found at BeaverTails stands throughout Québec, including popular Montréal and Québec City tourist spots.

These desserts are just a taste of the rich culinary landscape of Québec, offering a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Whether indulging in a classic tarte au sucre or savouring a kouign-amann, these sweets will surely leave a lasting impression.

Conclusion

Québec’s culinary landscape is a testament to its rich cultural heritage and diverse influences. From hearty meat and game dishes like tourtière and deer tartare to comforting street foods such as Montréal-smoked meat sandwiches and poutine, the province offers a vast array of flavours and experiences. The savoury delights are perfectly complemented by an impressive selection of cheeses and an irresistible variety of pastries and sweets, including tarte au sucre and maple taffy.

This exploration of Québecois cuisine highlights the delicious foods you can enjoy and the cultural significance behind each dish. Whether indulging in a comforting bowl of French onion soup or savouring the sweetness of a beavertails pastry, each bite tells a story of tradition, innovation, and local pride.

I encourage you to explore these culinary treasures on your next trip to Québec. Try something new, savour the flavours, and immerse yourself in the local culture. And don’t forget to share your experiences and favourite finds in the comments below. Your journey through the food of Québec could inspire others to embark on their own culinary adventure.

What About You?

Have you tried any of these Québecois dishes? What were your favourites? Do you have any memorable food experiences from Québec City or Montréal? Share your stories and tips in the comments below! And if you haven’t yet explored these culinary delights, which ones are you most excited to try?