In summer in Quebec, eating outside is not an option: it is a necessity. The Saint Lawrence as a backdrop, the historic alleys as decor: here is our selection of the best terraces with a view in Old Quebec.

THE DUFFERIN TERRACE: THE ESSENTIAL

The Dufferin Terrace, at the foot of the Chateau Frontenac, is one of the most beautiful wooden promenades in North America. It is 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, Orleans Island, and the Laurentians in the distance is breathtaking. In summer, the terrace is lively with street musicians, tourists, and Quebec families who come to spend the evening there.

LE PETIT CHAMPLAIN: THE TERRACES ON COBBLESTONES

In the Lower Town, the terraces of Petit Champlain have a different character: more intimate, more human scale. The tables spill onto the cobblestones, between brick and stone facades. In summer, the street transforms into a true open-air living room. Carrera Cafe is well placed there for a coffee, a glass of wine, or a cheese platter in the late afternoon, before the neighborhood restaurants start to show they are fully booked.

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

SAINT-ROCH AND SAINT-JEAN: NEW TERRACES

The Saint-Roch neighborhood and Saint-Jean street have developed a newer and more diverse terrace scene. The establishments 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 TO ENJOY THE TERRACES

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

For a guaranteed no-reservation terrace, Carrera Cafe at Petit Champlain is your best spot: the atmosphere is perfect, the coffee is excellent, and Petit Champlain street offers one of the most beautiful settings you’ll find in Quebec to sip something while watching people go by.