Old Quebec City Food and Drink Walking Tour

If you’re considering a way to really get to know Quebec City beyond just sightseeing, a food and drink walking tour might be just what you need. From what we’ve seen, this tour offers a tasty, authentic peek into local cuisine, all while strolling through the charming streets enclosed within UNESCO World Heritage walls. It’s designed to give you a bit of everything—history, culture, and of course, a generous sampling of regional flavors.

What stands out about this experience? First, the variety of tastings that serve as a kind of edible overview of Quebec’s culinary scene. Second, the knowledgeable guides who bring the stories behind the food and the city’s history to life. That said, a potential consideration is that the tour involves some walking and standing, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity.

It’s a great pick for travelers who love food, enjoy stories about local traditions, and appreciate small-group experiences. Whether you’re a foodie wanting to explore regional dishes or a history buff eager to learn about Quebec through its flavors, this tour aims to tick those boxes.

Key Points

• Tastings form a hearty, flavorful lunch with a variety of dishes and drinks included.
• The guide’s storytelling enhances the experience with historical and cultural insights.
• Small group size ensures a personalized, friendly atmosphere.
• Includes local wine and gin pairings, especially appealing for adults who like a good drink.
• Convenient location close to major attractions makes it easy to join.
• Durations and pacing are manageable for most, with comfortable walking and standing.

A Deep Dive Into the Old Quebec Food and Drink Tour

This tour offers a balanced mix of culinary delights and cultural commentary, making it more than just a series of tastings. Over roughly three hours, you’ll explore the historic streets of Old Quebec—an area packed with stories, gorgeous architecture, and lively neighborhoods—all while sampling some of the best local food.

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

The tour kicks off at 24 Rue Sainte-Anne, a spot close to top attractions, making it easy to incorporate into your sightseeing day. From there, you’ll move through the UNESCO-listed walls, visiting a series of carefully selected establishments. Each stop feels thoughtfully chosen to showcase Quebec’s regional fare in a way that’s both authentic and inviting.

Stop 1: La Bûche
Here, you’ll start with a three-course tasting including Québécois pea soup, pâté chinois (a comforting meat and corn casserole), and a traditional maple taffy. This introduction sets the tone—expect hearty flavors rooted in local traditions. Many reviews mention how the food choices are excellent, with Julie_L praising the “nice group size” and “very good guide,” emphasizing the social and educational aspect of the experience.

Stop 2: BEClub Bistro
This stop offers a generous serving of brisket, mashed potatoes, and gravy—classic comfort food. For those with adult tickets, a 2oz glass of local wine complements the meal, adding a touch of sophistication. Reviewers like Gale_D have highlighted the plentiful and delicious food, making it worth the price.

Stop 3: Maison Livernois
No visit to Quebec would be complete without trying poutine, and this stop delivers just that. Adult and alcohol tickets include a Québécois gin pairing, which is a fun way to explore the local spirits. Many guests, like Daniela_S, note how much they enjoyed the food and mention guides who add fun facts and personal stories.

Note on Sundays and Mondays:
Since some establishments like BEClub Bistro are closed on these days, the tour switches to Hortus, ensuring you still get a variety of flavors and experiences.

Stop 4: Comptoir Boréal
Here, you’ll taste traditional Quebec cream fudge and a half croissant. The focus on local ingredients keeps the experience authentic and rooted in regional specialties.

Stop 5: La Buchette
You’ll finish with a two-course appetizer featuring an unusual mushroom called Lions Mane and duck carpaccio—flavors that reflect the diversity of Quebec’s culinary landscape.

Group Size, Pacing, and Overall Comfort

The tour is capped at 16 travelers, which means it’s intimate enough for personal interaction without feeling crowded. Reviews frequently mention the comfortable walking pace—not too fast, with enough time to savor each bite and listen to your guide. If you have mobility concerns, note that the tour involves some walking, but the pace is generally manageable, as one reviewer with a hip issue pointed out.

The Guide – The Heart of the Experience

Reviews repeatedly praise the guides—Maude, Pamela, Guy, and Sami—highlighting their knowledge, engaging stories, and friendly demeanor. Many mention how guides tie food to local stories, which elevates the experience from simply tasting to understanding Quebec’s culinary heritage. One review even says Maude was “loud, funny, and had a lot of tips,” making it clear that a good guide makes a huge difference here.

Price and Value

At $118.66 per person, this tour offers a solid value for food lovers and curious travelers alike. Considering the multiple tastings that could easily amount to a hearty lunch, plus drinks like local wine or gin, the cost seems reasonable. Plus, the small-group setting ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd, which adds a personal touch.

Reviews Speak for Themselves

With a 4.8-star rating from over 1,070 reviews, this tour is clearly well-loved. Travelers consistently call out the “excellent food choices,” “knowledgeable guides,” and the overall enjoyable vibe. Many mention how the tour is a perfect way to kick off a trip or get a good overview of the city.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a fan of regional cuisine and want to taste your way through Quebec City’s historic streets, this is a fantastic choice. It suits those who enjoy small group settings and appreciate guides who share stories alongside food. It’s also good for adults who want to combine culinary exploration with a bit of sightseeing, especially since alcohol pairings are included.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour combines the best of Quebec City’s history and food in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The variety of tastings, the local spirits, and the engaging guides make it more than just a walk—it’s a tasteful introduction to what makes Quebec cuisine special.

For those seeking a comprehensive, enjoyable, and well-reviewed experience, this tour seems like a solid pick. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a balance of storytelling, good eats, and a manageable pace. Remember, booking in advance is recommended, and if you have specific dietary restrictions, be sure to note them when booking.

In short, whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just someone who loves to explore cities through their flavors, this tour offers a delicious, insightful way to spend an afternoon.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 3 hours, giving you plenty of time for tasting without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 24 Rue Sainte-Anne and ends at 1200 Rue Saint-Jean, both within easy reach of major attractions.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour is generally manageable for most physically fit adults. Consider your children’s interest in food and walking.

Are drinks included?
Yes, adult tickets include a 2oz glass of local wine at one stop, and adult + alcohol tickets include a gin pairing. Non-drinkers can opt for just the food.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
Be sure to inform the tour provider when booking. They suggest you advise of restrictions in the Special Requirements field.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transportation options, making it easy to join from various parts of the city.

Would I need to walk a lot?
The pace is comfortable, and the walking is spread out, making it manageable for most travelers.

How many people are in each group?
The tour groups are capped at 16 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

This Old Quebec City Food and Drink Walking Tour is an excellent way to explore the city’s culinary scene with a friendly guide, tasty bites, and a bit of history mixed in. Perfect for those who want to savor authentic regional flavors while strolling through a picturesque, historic setting.