Quebee City

Quaint, cobblestoned streets, a diverse array of shops and restaurants and a unique culinary culture are just a few of many things that stand out in Quebec City.

- Chris Chagaris

Located in eastern Canada, it was settled by the French in the 17th century and is the oldest walled city in North America. Quebec City is located in Quebec Province and is cosmopolitan yet relatively compact. Its cuisine is one of its notable draws for visitors.

A walking food tour of this historical city brings its gastronomic delights into focus. Our tour group was in experienced hands with area native and guide Robert Simard of Tours Voir Quebec during my visit here. He has been leading these tours for eight years, several times a week. “People taking this tour really enjoy food, and it’s fun for me to interact with them,” he said. “I tell all tourists that they should have a typical Quebecois meal, such as vegetable soup or even pea soup.”

The city’s signature foods play a significant role in defining its uniqueness. “All of our maple products, especially the maple syrup and taffy on snow, are very distinctive to Quebec City,” Simard said. “Quebec Province produces about 65 to 70 percent of the world’s production of this product.”

La Buche, a restaurant featured on Simard’s tour, opened in May, 2015. “Going to La Buche is like having a meal at your grandma’s,” said General Manager Jean-Mickael Sauvageau. “The ambience will make you remember a hunting cabin in the woods, a sugar shack or a Christmas party all year long. La Buche is the Quebec gastronomy at its best.”