In Quebec City, eating outdoors isn't an option: it's a necessity. With the Saint-Lawrence as a backdrop and historic alleyways as scenery, here's our selection of the best terraces with a view in Old Quebec.

DUFFERIN TERRACE: THE ESSENTIAL

Dufferin Terrace, at the foot of Château Frontenac, is one of the most beautiful wooden boardwalks in North America. It's not strictly speaking a restaurant, but several establishments use it or are directly connected to it to serve on the terrace. The view of the river, Île d'Orléans, and the Laurentians in the distance is breathtaking. In summer, the terrace is bustling with street musicians, tourists, and Quebec families who come to spend the evening there.

PETIT CHAMPLAIN: THE COBBLESTONE TERRACES

In Lower Town, the terraces of Petit Champlain have a different character: more intimate, more human-scale. Tables spill out onto the cobblestones, between brick and stone facades. In summer, the street transforms into a veritable open-air lounge. Carrera Cafe is well-situated here for a coffee, a glass of wine, or a cheese board in the late afternoon, before the neighborhood restaurants start to fill up.

The terraces of Petit Champlain are particularly pleasant in the early evening, when the light of the setting sun touches the colorful facades and the temperature gently drops. This is what Quebec City calls "terrace hour," and it's sacred.

SAINT-ROCH AND SAINT-JEAN: NEW TERRACES

The Saint-Roch district and Saint-Jean Street have developed a more recent and diverse terrace scene. The establishments there are more experimental: fusion cuisine, cocktail bars, craft breweries. The terraces are often larger, with temporary wooden or metal installations. The atmosphere is younger, more relaxed.

TIPS FOR ENJOYING THE TERRACES

In Quebec City, terraces officially open in May, but you have to wait until June to truly enjoy them without a coat. The high season runs from Saint-Jean Baptiste Day (June 24) to Labor Day (first Monday of September). During this period, the best terraces are fully booked from 6 PM on weekdays and 5 PM on weekends. Reserve or arrive early.

For a guaranteed terrace without a reservation, Carrera Cafe in Petit Champlain is your best bet: the atmosphere is perfect, the coffee is excellent, and Rue du Petit Champlain offers one of the most beautiful settings you'll find in Quebec City to sip something while people-watching.