Whether you’re in the mood for a crusty loaf of bread, a creamy éclair or a colorful macaron, you’ll find it in a Québec City bakery. Join me on my quest to find the biggest croissant and other sweet delights in this quaint destination. Not only are pastry shops cheap places to eat in Québec, but a way to sample the fine art of French dessert preparation.
Baguette & Chocolat
36 Côte de la Fabrique
You can dine in at this lively spot, which has several tables along with a homey corner that invites you to relax in a chair and read a book. So grab a pillow adorned with a Canadian flag, and order a sweet or savory crêpe (we loved the chocolate banana). Or, order a decadent pastry paired with an expertly prepared coffee drink. A blackboard announces the daily lunch specials.
Café La Maison Smith Place-Royale
23 Rue Notre Dame
This cozy bistro lives up to its reputation of creating the most colossal croissant in town—pair one with a maple latte in true Canadian fashion. The chocolate almond croissant is also a hit with patrons, a buttery marvel bursting with flavor. Colorful macarons are almost too pretty to eat, but go ahead and indulge in these delightful cookies with taste sensations such as salted caramel and coconut. While savoring your treat, you’ll enjoy relaxing in this charming spot decorated with vintage pictures of Old Québec. In fact, Smith boasts several locations in the city, each with its own unique character.
Chez Boulay - Comptoir Boréal
42 Côte du Palais
Friendly staffers will make you feel welcome in this smallish spot with big flavor. Try Boulay’s excellent coffee accompanied by a beautifully crafted pastry or superb croissant. Velvety hot chocolate (concocted with a rich, dark variety of cocoa) never disappoints on a brisk day. The to-die-for mushroom quiche is a favorite, while creamy soups and crispy panini are among other palate-pleasers. There are vegetarian options, too.
Le Croquembouche
225 Rue Saint-Joseph E.
Nestled in the trendy Saint-Roch district, this spacious bakery serves a variety of scrumptious goods that is well worth the 10-minute walk northwest of Old Québec. Holding center court is a display case of assorted loaves of crusty bread, not to be outdone by luscious fruit tarts, velvety eclairs, succulent pastries and chocolates created on-site. It’s a great spot for lunch or a light snack, so pull up a chair and order some house-made soup, quiche or a sandwich served on a fresh baguette.
Paillard Le Café-Boulangerie
1097 rue St-Jean
Croissant lovers take note: rumor has it that Paillard’s are the best in the Old City. In addition to these buttery works of art, you can sample an array of freshly baked breads (try the fig focaccia). Pair one of the café’s coffee drinks with a mouthwatering apple turnover or a crème brûlée. Breakfast on a savory egg-and-cheese croissant, or have a freshly made jambon et fromage sandwich for lunch. If you’re visiting during summer, the gelato tantalizes your taste buds and cools you down.
Queues de Castor
28 Boulevard Champlain
Situated in the heart of a bustling tourist district, Queues de Castor is tucked within an avenue of shops, restaurants and pubs. If you’re looking for things to do with kids, stop in for some gelato and chill out on a hot summer day. However, it’s the Beaver Tails that this small shop is known for—these oblong pastries are served warm and decorated with everything from candy to cookie bits. Simpler but no less delicious are toppings like maple cream and cinnamon sugar.
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