Quebec City: Old Quebec Food Tasting and Drink Walking Tour

Imagine exploring a city through its flavors—strolling through cobblestone streets, tasting hearty poutine, sweet sucre à la crème, and sipping local gin and wine. That’s exactly what the Old Quebec Food Tasting and Drink Walking Tour offers. Whether you’re a food lover eager to uncover Québécois classics or simply want a relaxed, flavorful way to experience Old Quebec, this tour promises a delicious adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the variety of five carefully curated stops—from rustic sugar shacks to a gin distillery—ensures you get a well-rounded taste of local cuisine and culture. Second, the enthusiasm and knowledge of guides, many of whom are praised for their storytelling, add a genuine warmth to the experience.

A possible consideration? The tour involves walking through Old Quebec’s historic streets, which might not be ideal if you have mobility issues or prefer a more stationary tasting. It’s best suited for those who enjoy exploring on foot and savoring local stories along the way.

This experience appeals most to travelers who want a combination of food, drink, and history—a true taste of Quebec’s culinary and cultural identity that’s perfect for first-timers or repeat visitors wanting insider tips.

Key Points

• Authentic Quebecois Cuisine: Enjoy local classics like poutine, sucre à la crème, and pea soup.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, personable, and often praised for their storytelling.
• Diverse Stops: Includes a sugar shack, gin distillery, monastery, and a historic house, providing a well-rounded experience.
• Great Value: For $115, you get five stops, eight tastings, a glass of wine, and a gin, making it a good deal considering the variety.
• Flexible and Convenient: 3-hour tour available in mornings and afternoons, with easy booking options and full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
• Suitable for Foodies & Culture Seekers: Perfect for those wanting more than just sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary and Stops

The tour begins outside La Buchette, a central meeting point in Old Quebec, making it easy to find. Over three hours, you’ll visit five unique venues that showcase Quebec’s culinary scene.

First Stop: A Local Food Spot with a Two-Course Appetizer
It all kicks off with a two-course appetizer featuring Lions Mane mushrooms and duck breast carpaccio. This introduction hints at the modern twists on traditional ingredients that are common in Quebec’s evolving culinary scene. We loved the way guides explain the significance of local ingredients and how they tie into regional culture.

Traditional Québécois Dishes
Next, you’ll try pea soup, a staple comfort dish, and pâté chinois, a hearty casserole of ground beef, corn, and mashed potatoes—think of it as Canada’s answer to shepherd’s pie. These are dishes locals love, and tasting them gives you a real flavor of everyday Quebec life.

Historical House and Bistro-Style Fare
A highlight is stepping into a 200-year-old house, where you’ll sample bistro-style brisket and mashed potatoes. The atmosphere feels authentic and cozy, reflecting centuries of Quebec history. Many reviews praise guides for sharing stories about the buildings and the city’s past, making each bite more meaningful.

Sweet Treats and Baked Goods
The tour then moves to a French bakery, where you’ll sample some of the city’s best croissants. As many reviewers note, the baked goods are a standout—fresh, flaky, and flavorful. No doubt, this stop satisfies both your sweet tooth and your curiosity about French-influenced baking techniques.

The Poutine & Drink Finale
No Quebec food tour would be complete without poutine—crispy fries topped with cheese curds and gravy—paired with a local Québécois gin. On Sundays and Mondays, instead of poutine, you might enjoy a lobster bisque with white wine, adding a touch of maritime luxury. Many guests comment on how deliciously satisfying the poutine is, often calling it the “best they’ve ever had.”

Drinks & Alcohol

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy a glass of wine selected by a sommelier, and a sample of gin at the distillery stop. Several reviews mention the quality and thoughtful pairing of beverages, elevating the tasting experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, mocktail substitutions are available, which is a considerate touch.

The Guides and Atmosphere

The guides are repeatedly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor. They weave in stories about Quebec’s history, culture, and culinary traditions, making the tour more than just a tasting. Many travelers appreciate how guides tailor the experience—some even rearranged stops to fit last-minute schedules, showing genuine flexibility.

The group size, generally around 8, feels intimate enough for conversations but lively enough to enjoy shared moments. The pace is relaxed, with enough time to savor each bite and listen to stories without feeling rushed.

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Value and Practicalities

At $115 per person, this tour offers a good mix of variety, quality, and education. Considering you get eight tastings, a glass of wine, a gin sample, and the company of a knowledgeable guide, it’s a well-priced way to explore Quebec City’s culinary culture. The tour is also available in the morning or afternoon, fitting easily into most travel plans.

Booking is flexible, with options to reserve and pay later, and a full refund available if canceled 24 hours ahead. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the walking involved may be challenging.

What Reviewers Say

From enthusiastic praise like “The food was delicious,” and “Maude was fantastic,” to stories of guides sharing personal experiences and city insights, reviews consistently highlight the guides’ expertise and the tastings’ authenticity. Many mention returning to their favorite spots afterward for dinner, which speaks to the quality of the venues involved.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy food, history, and walking, this tour hits just the right notes. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Québec’s culinary soul or returning travelers seeking new insights and local favorites. Foodies will love the variety—from savory dishes to sweet treats—and those interested in Quebec’s culture will find the storytelling and venue history especially engaging.

However, if you prefer more relaxed, seated tastings or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The walking component, while not overly strenuous, does involve some steps and navigating historic streets.

The Sum Up

This Old Quebec Food Tasting and Drink Walking Tour offers an engaging way to explore Quebec City through its flavors and stories. The combination of authentic dishes, delightful beverages, and lively guides creates a memorable experience that goes beyond just eating. It’s especially valuable for those keen to uncover local traditions while enjoying a fun, social atmosphere.

For around $115, you’re getting a well-curated mix of cuisine, culture, and conversation—a worthwhile splurge for anyone eager to deepen their understanding of Quebec’s culinary heritage. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or curious traveler, this tour delivers genuine value and authentic charm.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, usually offered in the morning or afternoon, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour meet?
You meet your guide outside La Buchette, a central location in Old Quebec that’s easy to find.

What’s included in the price?
For $115, you receive a guided walk, food tastings at five stops, a glass of wine, a sample of gin, and an entertaining guide.

Are alcoholic drinks available?
Yes, you’ll get a glass of wine and a gin sample. If you prefer, mocktail substitutes are also offered.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option for spontaneous travelers.

Is the tour suitable for children or teens?
While not specifically aimed at kids, many reviews mention families with teens enjoying the experience, especially if they appreciate food and culture.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tours include a variety of foods, but specific dietary needs aren’t detailed. It’s best to inquire directly if you have allergies or special diets.

Do I need to walk a lot?
There’s some walking involved through Old Quebec’s streets, but it’s a moderate pace. It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What if I don’t drink alcohol?
Non-alcoholic options like mocktails are available if you prefer not to indulge in wine or gin.

Are the venues accessible?
Certain stops involve historic buildings, which may have uneven floors or stairs, so accessibility is limited.

This tour provides a spot-on way to taste Quebec City’s culinary essence while soaking up its historic atmosphere. It’s a flavorful, friendly, and informative experience that leaves many visitors eager to return for more—whether that’s another round of poutine or a stroll through more charming streets.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby