Quebec has a thriving culinary scene that extends beyond its major cities, such as Montreal and Quebec City. As you plan a trip around our beautiful province, you’ll encounter gourmet destinations of all kinds. From a riverside terrace along the St. Lawrence River to a country table in the heart of the mountains to a farm that brings its fresh harvest to your plate, Quebec‘s artisans will tantalize your taste buds on many occasions. Here’s a selection of some of the best restaurants in Quebec, away from the major centres, for unforgettable gourmet moments while visiting Quebec’s tourist regions. Whatever the season!
Buvette Gentille, Charlevoix
Charlevoix is a region to savour, especially in Baie-Saint-Paul, where you can taste its terroir. Located in a small house on Saint-Jean-Baptiste Street, Buvette Gentille is a popular spot known for its relaxed atmosphere, creative small plates and carefully selected wines by sommelier Andréanne Guay.
During the summer season, this buvette is very popular, so make sure you book a table as there are only about twenty seats inside and ten on the terrace. This will give you a front-row seat to watch the chefs of one of the best restaurants in Quebec at work, and a chance to indulge in Quebec produce.
73, rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste, Baie-Saint-Paul
Maison de Soma, Laurentides
In the peaceful and enchanting setting of the Maskinongé Lake Valley, just ten minutes from Mont-Tremblant, Edith Foliot and Didier Lortie’s project took root. Over the past few years, the couple has worked with passion and determination to transform an old farm into a magnificent gourmet address that will officially open its doors in the summer of 2023.
Maison de Soma, one of the best restaurants in Quebec, offers two ways to experience the Laurentian terroir: a 7-course tasting menu from Thursday to Saturday at 7 p.m., and a picnic-style buvette in the fields from Wednesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. until the end of October. “In high season, more than 80% of the products on the menu come from the farm. Our great wealth is the work of the craftsmen in the fields and in the kitchen,” says Didier.
You are sure to remember this gourmet experience, which alone is worth the trip to the Laurentians.
380, chemin Paquette, Mont-Tremblant
Pizzeria des Battures, Bas-Saint-Laurent
The St. Lawrence River is always a great adventure during a trip to Quebec, no matter what the season. Located in a former presbytery in Notre-Dame-du-Portage, the Pizzeria des Battures, one of the best restaurants in Quebec, is the perfect place for families and groups of friends to enjoy a delicious wood-fired pizza overlooking the river. The region is also famous for having some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world!
You can watch this magical spectacle while enjoying a mushroom, prawn or prosciutto pizza, along with a selection of wines and microbrewery beers. Got a sweet tooth? Prolong your enjoyment with a frozen treat from the Glacier des Battures.
537, route du Fleuve, Notre-Dame-du-Portage
Espace Old Mill, Cantons-de-l’Est
You may have heard of Jean-Martin Fortier, the famous Quebec market gardener. He has launched a new project: a gourmet country table in a historic building dating from 1849, located in the beautiful Eastern Townships. On the menu at Espace Old Mill: local and seasonal ingredients, many of which come directly from the farm, highlighted by chef Éric Gendron and his team in a 4 or 7-course menu with wine pairings (Thursday to Sunday).
You can even stay on site, just above the restaurant, by booking a room at La Cecil House. Before dinner, don’t miss a stroll through the gardens to get a taste of what’s on the menu at this great table.
7, chemin Caleb Tree, Stanbridge East
Les Fougères, Outaouais
Located in the heart of the Gatineau Hills, near the village of Chelsea, this restaurant, which recently celebrated its 30th anniversary, is a true institution in the Outaouais. Considered one of the best restaurants in Quebec,, its success is linked to its delicious, lovingly prepared dishes and its special connection with nature, whether you choose to dine in the dining room or on the beautiful veranda in the summer.
The team behind the stoves at Les Fougères carefully creates a seasonal menu that showcases terroir and freshness, accompanied by a fine selection of regional wines. There is even a small grocery store next to the restaurant where you can buy take-away meals.
783, route 105, Chelsea
Zélé, Mauricie
If you’re planning a visit to the Mauricie National Park, be sure to stop off in Sainte-Flore. Zélé, a charming bistro in the old general store, is a sure-fire favourite with its eclectic decor, mismatched dishes and menu that changes with the seasons and the chef’s inspirations.
You’ll not only make some wonderful culinary discoveries, but also enjoy some great drinks with a wine and cocktail list. Special mention must be made of the small service team who ensure that all guests enjoy a memorable meal and a warm atmosphere.
3230, chemin de Sainte-Flore, Shawinigan
Nord Laboratoire culinaire, Montérégie
With five establishments across Quebec, Strøm Spa is not only a dream place to relax, but also to enjoy good food. Before appearing on the menus of the various spa restaurants, the dishes are tested and validated by Chef Raphaël Podlasiewicz and his team at Nord Laboratoire culinaire in Chambly.
Nordic, fresh and local are the guiding principles of the menus, which are available throughout the day. You can come for a coffee, an aperitif on the terrace, or for an unforgettable gourmet experience, discover culinary innovations over a meal in the dining room.
1887, avenue de Bourgogne, Chambly
Verre Lime, Saguenay
This friendly new spot in downtown Chicoutimi brings a fresh breeze to the Saguenay Lac Saint-Jean region.
Ranking among the best restaurants in Quebec, Verre Lime has been very popular since it opened, so be sure to reserve a table before your visit. You can enjoy small plates to share in a lively atmosphere and pair your culinary discoveries with creative cocktails for outstanding combinations.
367A, rue Racine, Chicoutimi
A few more of the best restaurants in Quebec:
- Parcelles, Cantons-de-l’Est
- La Cabane d’à côté, Basses-Laurentides
- Faux bergers, Charlevoix
- Chez Bika, Montérégie
- Chardo restaurant & bar à vin, Cantons-de-l’Est
- Midinette boulangerie de fantaisie et buvette, Île d’Orléans
- OUI OUI – BUVETTE FORESTIÈRE, Charlevoix
- L’Épicurieux, Laurentides
- Quai 360, Iles-de-la-Madeleine
- La belle histoire, Laurentides
- Côté Est, Bas-Saint-Laurent
