You’re in Quebec in summer. The sun hits the gray stones of Old Quebec, Petit Champlain street is lively, and you need a break. Not just any break: a real one, with a good drink in hand and a terrace worth sitting on.

Here’s how to choose your coffee well this summer, and why some places are really worth the visit.

What we look for in a summer coffee

Summer in Quebec changes priorities. We no longer necessarily seek a steaming double espresso. We look for something refreshing, reliable, and flavorful. And ideally, we want to sit somewhere that isn’t a conference room disguised as a café.

Three simple criteria to choose well: the quality of the beans, the preparation technique, and the location. A poorly made iced coffee with ordinary coffee is simply sweetened cold coffee. That’s not what we want.

Iced coffee or iced latte: what is the difference?

The question comes up often. Here is the honest answer. A well-made iced coffee is a hot-extracted espresso, then poured over ice with a technique that preserves the aroma. The result should be intense, slightly bitter, with a nice finish. Not watery. Not diluted. Concentrated.

An iced latte is espresso combined with cold milk, poured over ice. The result is smoother, creamier, more approachable. It’s the most versatile summer drink on the menu.

Petit Champlain: the most beautiful street to drink coffee

Petit Champlain is undoubtedly the most beautiful street to have a coffee this summer. It’s one of the most beautiful streets per square kilometer in all of Canada. The houses date back to the 17th century. The cobblestones have been walked on by generations of Quebecers and visitors from around the world. Stopping there for a cold drink means being part of something.

Carrera Café is at the heart of this neighborhood. Our terrace places you exactly where you want to be in July.

Our recommendations according to your profile

You like intense and short coffee: espresso on ice, no added water. Ask for a splash of milk if you want to soften it slightly.

You want something sweet and refreshing: iced latte with whole milk. Simple. Effective. Always good.

You are curious and patient: ask if cold brew is available. The answer might pleasantly surprise you.

You are with family or a group: the terrace is made for that. Take your time. Order at your own pace. The neighborhood doesn’t rush anyone.

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