Quebec City is a treasure trove of culinary delights, with its mix of French influence and North American flavors. The city’s compact size makes it easy to explore its historic streets while indulging in some of the finest food in Canada. Among the many ways to enjoy Quebec’s gastronomic scene, we particularly like tours that combine history and culture with memorable meals. For example, the Evening Gourmet Tour 5 Course Dinner offers a perfect blend of exploring Old Quebec’s highlights while sampling a five-course tasting menu. It’s ideal if you want a personal experience with drinks included, all wrapped into a 3-hour evening adventure.
If you’re a true foodie with a love for multiple tastings, the 5-course Progressive Dinner on Grande-Allée and History Tour stands out as a fantastic option. It takes you through six to eight different eateries, each offering a taste of Quebec’s French Canadian cuisine, combined with a bit of local history. For a unique experience on the water, the Québec City: 3 or 5-Course Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing combines a scenic cruise along the St. Lawrence with gourmet dining and dancing under the stars. Whether you prefer land-based tours or a night on the river, Quebec’s diverse dining experiences won’t disappoint.
Quick Overview
Below, we’ve broken down four top options that highlight different ways to enjoy Quebec City’s food scene. From gourmet dinners paired with city sights to lively waterfront cruises with music, each offers a unique taste of Quebec’s culinary culture.
1. Evening Gourmet Tour 5 Course Dinner – History and Food in Old Quebec City
This tour is a favorite for those who want more than just good food; it’s a rich experience of Old Quebec’s sights and tastes. Starting at the official HQ Services Touristiques desk, you’ll meet your guide and explore places like Place Royale, the city hall, and the funicular, all while learning about the city’s history. The highlight is indulging in a five-course tasting menu at some of Quebec’s most celebrated restaurants, with drinks included. The tour is designed for small groups—capped at 10—to keep it intimate and personalized.
What makes this tour stand out is the blend of cultural discovery and culinary excellence. Guests rave about the quality of the food and the engaging, knowledgeable guides—Yvonne and Murielle are often mentioned as highlights. The included funicular ride offers a splendid view of Old Quebec and the St. Lawrence River, making the experience visually memorable as well as tasty. The tour’s 3-hour duration makes it a perfect evening activity if you’re short on time but want a well-rounded taste of the city.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a gourmet experience sprinkled with history and scenic views, all in a cozy, small-group setting. It’s perfect for special occasions or anyone eager to combine sightseeing with a top-notch dinner.
2. 5-course Progressive Dinner on Grande-Allée and History Tour
For those who want to sample more of Quebec’s culinary scene and explore the city’s history, this tour delivers with stops at six to eight different eateries. Meeting at a central fountain, your guide will lead you through the neighborhood along Grande-Allée, famous for its vibrant atmosphere. The stops include historic sites and top local restaurants serving regional specialties, all with drinks, tastings, and a ferry ride included in the price.
The highlight of this tour is its variety—each stop offers a different flavor or culinary style, from Quebecois comfort food to French classics. The small group size (up to 10 people) ensures a personal experience, and guests appreciate how the tour balances food, culture, and history. The evening ends on a lively street, illuminated and bustling, perfect for soaking in Quebec’s dynamic vibe. A review mentions that the food and wine were excellent, and the guide Danielle made the experience particularly enjoyable.
Bottom Line: Best suited for serious food lovers who want to discover multiple restaurants and learn about Quebec’s history along the way. Great value for the variety and included ferry ride.
3. Québec City: 3 or 5-Course Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing
If you’re looking for a special evening on the water, this dinner cruise offers a memorable blend of scenery, food, and fun. For around $126, you can choose between a 3- or 5-course meal inspired by local ingredients, served while the boat cruises along the St. Lawrence at sunset. The cruise features outdoor terraces for drinks and panoramic views of iconic sights like Château Frontenac and Montmorency Falls.
What sets this cruise apart is the combination of gourmet dining and entertainment. After your meal, a DJ sets the mood for dancing, making it a lively way to cap off your day. Guests love watching the city lights come alive and snapping photos of the illuminated skyline. The 3.5-hour duration is well-paced, giving plenty of time to enjoy your meal and dance floor. The casual, festive atmosphere suits couples, groups, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet elegant experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a romantic evening or celebration, combining scenic views, fine dining, and dancing. It’s a fun way to experience Quebec’s night skyline.
4. Progressive Dinner on Grande-Allée and History Tour
This tour offers a gourmet five-course meal spread across 4 to 5 different venues along Grande-Allée. Starting with a focus on Quebec City’s rich architecture, including the basilica, the tour takes you to top restaurants and historic spots. It’s designed for food and history enthusiasts who want to taste a variety of dishes while soaking in the city’s ambiance.
The flexible 3-hour experience includes stops at some of Quebec’s best restaurants, showcasing talented chefs and gourmet creations. The small group size (only 2 reviews so far, but perfect 5/5 ratings) ensures a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. Guests enjoy the opportunity to indulge in multiple courses and experience Quebec’s cultural sites while dining. This tour is especially appealing for those with a good appetite and a curiosity for local history.
Bottom Line: Best suited for foodies who want to experience the top restaurants in Quebec City in one evening, combined with a touch of history and gorgeous scenery.
How to Choose
Picking the right dining experience in Quebec City depends on your priorities—whether it’s gastronomy, history, scenery, or a lively night out. For a romantic, scenic evening with a focus on history and food, the Evening Gourmet Tour offers a well-rounded package. If you’re eager to explore multiple eateries and enjoy an energetic atmosphere, the Progressive Dinner on Grande-Allée is a great choice.
For a special celebration or sunset experience, the Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing combines scenic views with entertainment. Budget-wise, the cruise is slightly more affordable than the gourmet tours, which emphasize more personalized experiences.
When booking, consider the time of year—summer evenings are perfect for the cruise and outdoor walking tours, while winter may call for cozy indoor dinners. Booking early is wise, especially for popular small-group tours.
In summary, Quebec City offers a range of fantastic dining experiences that cater to different tastes and interests. Whether you prefer a gourmet sit-down dinner, a multi-restaurant tasting tour, or a scenic cruise with dinner and dancing, there’s something to satisfy your palate. For a memorable visit, prioritize what excites you most—be it history, scenic views, or culinary variety—and book ahead to secure your spot. Happy eating!