I was excited to sample cuisine in Quebec City Quebec City Day Trip – HER//Excursions trip to Quebec City (herexcursions.com). And I was not disappointed.
A Quebecois Brunch
I noticed the restaurant menu on the sidewalk before I noticed the Hotel Hortus dining room. That drew me in. I loved the large windows, and the French chic feel of the decor. Most of all, though, it felt inviting to a cold and hungry traveler. Either way, I backtracked and read the menu and realized they were still serving brunch despite it being solidly afternoon.
I sat at a table for two at the front of the restaurant. It was the perfect place to people watch. I ordered the Organic Breton. It consists of a 2-duck egg omelet with bacon, chemin hately cheese, and chives with a small salad and seasonal vegetables. I knew that the meal also came with fingerling potatoes and either gluten-free or organic bread. However, I did not realize that yoghurt (of the day) and homemade granola were also part of it until the waitress brought them. And all for a whopping CA$ 26.95. A delicious bourbon cocktail finished off this gloriously tasty meal. I unreservedly recommend the Hortus Bistro if you are ever in Quebec City.
Boulangerie Bakes
I mentally danced a jig when I came upon Café Paillaird, a boulangerie (bakery) Boulangerie artisanale, Paillard. I would have missed it as one of many doors, had I not been looking closely. The café was packed by what appeared to be a lot of locals. It had to be a good sign.
The cozy bakery’s long glass case showcased bread, pastries, and cakes, while a café served beverages and sandwiches. Frozen after walking the city for over an hour in slushy cold rain, the first thing I ordered a hot chocolate to defrost. Next was a black olive and feta fougasse (bread with filling), a small citron (lemon) cake, Tropézienne (cream-filled brioche dough topped with almonds) and a raisin-filled pastry roll. I’ll have you know that I’m very particular about my hot chocolate (you wouldn’t understand). Yet it was just right, and the pastries were ALL addictive.
