Quebec City: Old Quebec Food Tasting and Drink Walking Tour

If you’re considering a way to truly get a taste of Quebec City beyond just wandering its streets, this Old Quebec Food Tasting and Drink Walking Tour might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a mix of delicious bites, local beverages, and stories about the city—all packed into a compact three-hour experience.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines culinary delights with historical insights, making the experience both tasty and educational. Plus, the fact that it visits local hot spots favored by residents ensures you’re not just eating in touristy spots but really sampling authentic Quebecois cuisine. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour isn’t suited for those with mobility challenges, since it involves some walking through Old Quebec’s charming, cobbled streets.

If you’re someone who enjoys discovering a city through its food and drinks, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially great for travelers who want a manageable, guided approach to experiencing Quebec’s culinary side without the hassle of planning each stop.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Flavors: The tour features both traditional and contemporary Quebecois dishes, giving a well-rounded taste of the region.
• History and Food Combined: Guides share stories and insights along the way, enriching your understanding of Quebec’s culture.
• Diverse Tasting Stops: From a rustic sugar shack to a gin distillery and a French bakery, each location offers a unique experience.
• Good Value: At $115 for three hours, the price includes 8 tastings, a glass of wine, and gin — all guided by a knowledgeable host.
• Accessible to Food Lovers and Culture Enthusiasts: It’s ideal for those wanting a compact, flavorful snapshot of Quebec City’s culinary and historic highlights.
• Not for Everyone: Limited mobility and wheelchair access mean some travelers may need to pass on this experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Quebec City Food and Drink Tour

What’s the Tour All About?

This guided walking tour takes you through the heart of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant local life. Over three hours, you’ll visit five distinct tasting locations, each offering a snapshot of Quebec’s rich and evolving food scene.

The tour is designed to blend food, drink, and stories—a trifecta that keeps the experience lively and engaging. Starting with a two-course appetizer featuring local mushrooms called Lions Mane and duck breast carpaccio, the tour sets a tone of sophistication mixed with local flair.

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

The itinerary covers a variety of culinary experiences that reflect the city’s diverse palate. A typical day might include:

• A Two-Course Appetizer: This includes an offbeat starter with Lions Mane mushrooms and tender duck breast carpaccio. Such dishes give a modern twist on local ingredients and showcase Quebec’s creative culinary scene.
• Traditional Québécois Soup and Pâté: Think hearty pea soup, often a comfort food, and pâté chinois—a sort of shepherd’s pie made with ground beef, corn, and mashed potatoes, which many reviews praise for its satisfying flavors.
• A Historic House Meal: Stepping into a house that’s nearly 200 years old, you’ll enjoy classic bistro fare like brisket with mashed potatoes, vegetables, and savory gravy. Pairing this with a glass of wine selected by the sommelier elevates the experience.
• Sweet Treats: A stop for sucre à la crème, a traditional Quebecois caramel-like dessert, is a highlight for many. Plus, tasting some of the city’s best croissants helps complete the tasting journey.
• Poutine and Local Gin: No visit to Quebec is complete without sampling poutine—a generous plate of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy—paired with a local Québécois gin for a true flavor of the region.

Food and Drink Quality

Guests consistently praise the quality of the food tastings. Many reviewers, like Michael, mention that the food and history combined make it an exceptional experience, with one calling it “perfect in every aspect.” The variety — from savory dishes to sweet desserts, wines, and gins — keeps the palate entertained throughout.

More Great Tours Nearby

Guides and Atmosphere

The guides are often described as knowledgeable, friendly, and humorous. Maude, for instance, receives glowing reviews for her personality and insights, making the tour feel personal and relaxed. Other guides, like Samuel and Vincent, are also highly appreciated for their storytelling, which adds depth to the culinary stops.

It’s worth noting that the tour group size is small, usually around 8 people, which fosters a cozy, friendly vibe. This setup also allows guides to give more personalized attention and answer questions freely.

Accessibility and Practicalities

Keep in mind, the tour involves walking through Old Quebec’s cobbled streets, which can be uneven and challenging for those with mobility issues or wheelchairs. It’s scheduled conveniently in the morning or afternoon, so you can fit it into your day easily.

Alcoholic drinks are included but can be substituted with mocktails if preferred, making it flexible for different preferences. Also, on Sundays and Mondays, the bistro stop is replaced with a tasting of lobster bisque and a white wine, adding a nice local seafood touch.

Value for Money

At $115 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. You get eight tastings, including drinks, plus a guide who is both informative and entertaining. Many reviews highlight how the food is generous and the experience well worth the price.

Some guests, like Scott, wished for a bit more wine, but overall, the inclusions seem to satisfy most. Considering the quality and variety, it’s a good deal for those wanting a curated, immersive food experience in Quebec City.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers, curious about Quebec’s culinary traditions, and those interested in learning about the city’s history through its cuisine. If you enjoy guided tours that combine storytelling with tasting, you’ll likely find this a memorable outing.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a manageable, three-hour experience with a friendly group atmosphere. However, if you have mobility issues or prefer to explore at your own pace without walking through cobbled streets, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

The Old Quebec Food Tasting and Drink Walking Tour offers a delightful taste of what makes Quebec City special—its food, its stories, and its warm, welcoming atmosphere. The guides’ knowledge and the quality of food and drink are consistently praised, making it clear that this isn’t just a snack crawl but a well-curated experience.

While it’s not perfect for everyone — especially those with mobility challenges — it’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to combine cultural insights with a flavorful journey through one of Canada’s most charming cities. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this tour promises a heartfelt, delicious, and informative afternoon.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions?
The tour primarily features traditional Quebecois dishes, many of which are meat-based, such as duck and brisket. If you have specific dietary restrictions, it’s best to contact the provider in advance. They do offer mocktails instead of alcohol if needed.

How much walking is involved?
The tour involves walking through Old Quebec, which includes visiting five different spots. The streets are cobbled, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The group is small, and the pace is manageable.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change. Just remember to cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s included in the price?
For $115, you get the guided tour, food tastings at five locations, a glass of wine, and a glass of gin. The guide is also part of the package, providing stories and insights.

Is it available in the evenings?
The tour is usually available in the morning and afternoon. No mention of evening options, so check availability if you prefer an evening experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, and since it involves alcohol and some walking, it’s mainly suitable for adults.

What happens if it rains?
The tour is outdoors and involves walking, so it’s best to check the weather forecast. Some stops are inside, like the sugar shack and bakery, but be prepared for the weather by dressing appropriately.

If you’re after a relaxed, flavorful way to explore Quebec City, this tour is a solid pick. It’s a blend of tasty bites, local drinks, and stories that help you see the city through a delicious lens. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your curiosity—your palate and your sense of adventure will thank you.

You can check availability for your dates here: