The word bar comes from 16th century French vocabulary. To ‘barre’ is to block and, it’s safe to say, that we enjoy a little unblocking more often than not. But this spirited and appetite-inducing guide isn’t that kind of history lesson. It’s a guide that trawls through our memories of excellent libations past.
Batifol Bar & Grill
$$ | (418) 666-5141 | WEBSITE
During the day, at Batifol Bar & Grill, there are a handful of homemade dishes on that are, at around fifteen dollars, one of Quebec City’s best value lunches. Or snacks. The boudin and steak tartare are excellent, and their take on a filet mignon is a go-to.
Kinzo Québec (Vanier)
Kinzo Québec (Vanier) is that rare kind of gaming spot that really deserves a better title than just ‘restaurant’. Lively, with a fast-paced bingo experience, and affordable enough that you can play without risking your wallet, it’s 10/10. Oh, and grab a meal before 8:30 PM for peak relaxation.
Société Cigare
$$$ | (418) 628-7423 | WEBSITE
If you haven’t yet opened up your mind to the idea of cigars as a companion to drinks then let us help you. Think of us like a wise friend offering Bolivars and Cubans instead of ordinary smokes. Société Cigare’s selection is impressive and this cozy Quebec City spot is a destination for groups and anyone after a relaxing evening with quality whiskeys like Bowmore 12 and 15.
Chez Girard’s Pub
$$ | (418) 524-6344 | WEBSITE
Every neighborhood in Quebec City needs a spot that pours frosty pints, serves up $5.50 pizzas topped with smoked meat, and radiates the genuine warmth of its staff. The Old Port has exactly that in Chez Girard’s Pub. If you’re not in the mood for a pie or sandwich, you can upgrade to a full meal for a couple bucks more and either head out contentedly or settle into a booth there.
Cochon Dingue
$$ | (418) 523-2013 | WEBSITE
If you think that French onion soup needs a special occasion, then you’re mistaken. A chilly Tuesday evening was the backdrop when we first tried the signature soup at Cochon Dingue – a bustling French-Canadian restaurant in Quebec City – and it was absolutely spot-on. We went for the classic version, but there are plenty of main courses, including the Cochon Dingue-style hot chicken, and lobster eggs benedict.
Le Bijou • Salon à cocktails
$$$ | (418) 803-0645 | WEBSITE
Everything on Le Bijou’s menu could probably be classed (contentiously) as a cocktail. Well, maybe not one of Chef David’s well-balanced plates. But their small bites certainly. Of them all it’s the live jazz that’s a constant draw. Swirled and dusted with notes, golden and crisp in the atmosphere but soft and comfortable in the seating, it’s part performance and fully immersive.
SHAKER Kitchen & Mixology
$$ | (418) 651-6565 | WEBSITE
This Quebec City spot has been perfecting its mixology and kitchen offerings for years, and it shows. They’ve got all the classics like tasty lobster bites and salmon tartare, as well as some SHAKER specialties like goat cheese, pecan, and maple tartare. You can’t go wrong with the fresh-tasting drinks and delectable appetizers, and we like to ask for a cozy table inside, because… well… the inviting atmosphere.
Bar Le Sacrilège
$ | (418) 649-1985 | WEBSITE
Bar Le Sacrilège’s pint is a fantastic and smooth pour of textures and hops that, looks-wise, resembles something that’s been crafted and chilled to exacting standards before, at the very last minute, being generously topped with the perfect foam. It marries your crispest and most refreshing beer memories into something deliciously satisfying that should absolutely be enjoyed on Le Sacrilège’s magnificent terrace.
Le Projet – Spécialité Microbrasseries
$$ | (581) 701-2044 | WEBSITE
Le Projet – Spécialité Microbrasseries is a lively tavern tucked into a former bank building in Quebec City, serving some of the best craft brews in the area. They’re about eight dollars a pint, meaning you can drink like a king or queen here for a few dollars more than that. Grab some poutine with your IPA, or – and this is our move – some extra fried chicken with their homemade coleslaw.
Fou-Bar
$ | (418) 522-1987 | WEBSITE
“Whatcha drinking?” Your curious friend says, leaning in with eager eyes. “Oh this? Just a little local IPA.” Classic Quebec spot Fou-Bar’s frosty, foamy pints fall under our favourite genre of drinks, Things We Sip While Chatting and Nodding to the Beat for Two Glorious Hours. Zac’s friendly service, Zac’s welcoming nature—12 beers, 12 reasons to stop worrying and have another little fun break.
Bar Le Loft
$$ | (418) 353-7475 | WEBSITE
We’ve belted out many a tune and shared countless laughs at this neighborhood karaoke bar in Quebec City, but their wall-mounted lyrics – a clever, accessible display that’s bold on sight with just the right amount of guidance – are never not essential to our night. Ask for a round of friendly and attentive service to keep the fun flowing.
Bar Neilson
$ | (418) 656-6264 | WEBSITE
Bar Neilson’s excellent malt is basically a warm hug for the spirit in liquid amber form. Served fresh, the cervoise is our personal favourite, but the overall atmosphere deserves a special shout out too. It’s super welcoming and an excellent way to spend twelve bucks.
Bar Artefact
$$ | (418) 692-2211 | WEBSITE
When winter evenings in Quebec City were a regular thing, there was nothing more regular than a mug of Bar Artefact’s hot chocolate. Thinking about this hot chocolate makes our heart warm and our soul sigh. Served by the roaring fire, with generous portions of rich cocoa that sometimes vary in consistency, it’s something we’d happily wrap our hands around forever.
Bar Ste-Angèle
$ | (418) 473-9044 | WEBSITE
Bar Ste-Angèle is one of Quebec City’s best jazz venues and their live fusion jazz is not only wildly talented but super accessible. But one thing you should know is that it’s physically impossible to stop listening to Bar Ste-Angèle’s musicians. If you think we’re joking, you should see how many nights we spend in this cozy underground spot every single week.
Ninkasi Bar & Bistro
$$ | (418) 529-8538 | WEBSITE
One for all our casual dining fans who love nachos but hate boring bars. This Quebec City bar and bistro situation is packed full of super good nachos with crunchy homemade batter and zero pretension. We like to enjoy their delicious paninis whilst also sipping our third original cocktail of the evening, but that’s just personal preference.
Le Bal du Lézard
$$ | (418) 529-3829 | WEBSITE
Le Bal du Lézard’s atmosphere makes every other neighborhood bar feel like it’s been decorated by a committee using a spreadsheet. This place, this is angular. It’s Tron decor. Sharp and eclectic on the edges, but straight, warm and, remarkably, full of genuine hospitality down the middle. A special mention goes to Étienne Denis’s unapologetically charismatic service as well.
Bistro Bar La Barricade
$ | (418) 455-3313 | WEBSITE
Run by the same crew as some of Quebec City’s top spots, Bistro Bar La Barricade pours the best drinks in the neighborhood. The atmosphere shifts with the crowd – the fun blonde guy or the older gentleman create a lively vibe when they’re on, and even the regular service is a cut above anywhere else. The area outside can be a bit rough with some undesirable characters, but the unique charm of the bar keeps customers coming back.
Some miss having espresso martinis on the menu, but the hope of new additions keeps regulars returning with friends.
Le Cluster Bar Spectacle
$ | (418) 833-8549 | WEBSITE
Once you’re stepping into Le Cluster Bar Spectacle for a Friday night of entertainment, you’re winning in our books. This spot consistently delivers a lively atmosphere, with Maika skillfully engaging the crowd during karaoke, and if you have the patience to wait through occasional service hiccups, the overall experience is thoroughly enjoyable.
Taverne Jos Dion
$ | (418) 525-0710 | WEBSITE
This local favorite has been pouring drinks for 90 years, making it the oldest bar in the area. The atmosphere, as it should always be, is key here. It’s divided into two sections with doors on both sides, giving it an alleyway-like feel that’s both cozy and welcoming. Pour a pint of Heineken for under $10 (plus a side of pizza) and you have something close to perfection.
The staff may have limited English, but they’re friendly and eager to help, creating an honest vibe that attracts everyone from regulars to newcomers. Add free popcorn bowls to the mix of classic songs and diverse social interactions, and you have a true local hangout that’s memorable despite any language barriers.
