GUIDE TO EATING GLUTEN FREE IN QUEBEC CITY CANADA AND BEYOND

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Quebec City has a vibrant food scene, and it’s very easy to tell why foodies flock there. With strong influences from the French and British, the Quebecois have made truly one of a kind dishes that highlight the local foods. With a large push on the farm to table ethos, many of these items are naturally gluten-free. This is great news for those who have celiac disease.

In addition to naturally gluten free foods on the menu, many restaurants are now catering to our needs with gluten free bread and pasta products. None of the restaurants I visited had dedicated gluten-free kitchens, but most have measures in place to prevent cross contamination. 

I’m pleased to say I had no issues, and did not get sick on my trip. Special thanks to all the restaurant employees who took my concerns about gluten-free dishes seriously!  They made me feel comfortable and safe with all my dietary needs on this food excursion. I had a wonderful time discovering such excellent restaurants. I am pleased to report that every location provided good service along with delicious food. 

All meals in Quebec City were purchased by myself (with the exception of Restaurant La Buche), while meals outside of Quebec City were complimentary as part of my press tour around the region with Bonjour Québec and Tourisme Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean. All opinions are my own.

Please remember, I am not a medical doctor. Nor do I know about your specific needs. We all vary with different dietary restrictions and individual needs. What works for me might not work for you. In addition to celiac disease, I also have a nut and seafood allergy. There is always a chance of cross contamination, and your comfort level may be different from mine. Even though I did not order them, most places had both vegetarian options and vegan options.

All restaurants are listed in the order I visited them, not in a ranking system for the best gluten free restaurant.  I will list the Quebec City restaurants first followed by those from the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region. Want to click through quickly? Use the table of contents menu below!

Gluten-Free Restaurants in Quebec City

Sapristi

1001 rue St-Jean Québec (Qc) G1R 1S4

Just around the corner from “Umbrella alley” on Rue du Cul-de-Sac, in the Quartier Petit Champlain area, sits this quaint bistro restaurant. Talk about a great spot! The patio affords great views of the surrounding historical buildings and offers lots of people watching. It was June when I visited, but still chilly, so my Texas heart was happy to sit outside in a light jacket with a patio heater next to me to keep warm. 

After a busy day of travel, a pizza was calling my name. My server was very attentive when I asked if the gluten free pizza crust had any nut flours. She double checked with the chef and told me  it was a cauliflower crust with no nuts. I ordered a margherita style pizza that came dotted with Fior Di Latte (traditional Italian cow’s milk cheese) over tomato sauce, and finished with shreds of fresh basil on top.    

I also ordered a Moscow Mule. It came with a sprig of rosemary, which I loved since that is how I make my cranberry Moscow Mules. In addition to gluten free pizza, they have several pasta dishes with gluten-free options on the menu. During my stay in Quebec City I found another location on Rue Saint-Jean, which is located closer to the convention center.

Chez Hansel et Gretel

 242 Rue Saint-Jean, Québec, QC G1R 1P1, Canada

My first full day in Quebec City, I was on a mission to find this gluten free bakery which I had read about online. It was about a 20-minute walk from my hotel in Old Town, and the walk on Rue Saint-Jean was relatively flat ground, which seemed uncommon for the area. Somehow I forgot to take a picture of the shop along with most of the sweet treats I ordered. I wanted enough for my stay, so I stocked up. 

The workers were fabulous, helping to look up ingredients in the items to make sure they were free of allergies I have. They triple checked the things I ordered to be sure.. I ended up getting a vanilla cake ball that was coated in chocolate with sprinkles, a chocolate marshmallow cookie, a cinnamon roll, and a lemon cupcake. Gluten-free bread was on my list, but sadly, there was an ingredient I couldn't have.

I spread the desserts out over several days and everything lasted in my hotel fridge. The citrus-based cupcake was my favorite. It’s not exactly light and airy, but it also didn’t feel stodgy or heavy. The cake base was not crumbly at all, which was so nice! The same base was used in the cake ball. The addition of citrus jelly really added to it, even if it made it a bit more messy to eat.

Le Chic Shack

15 Fort St, Québec City, Quebec G1R 3Z8, Canada

Everyone loves a burger and fries but celiacs know it is just not as fun to eat a burger without a bun. I had read mixed reviews online about this location and went in with my eyes wide open, knowing that there are concerns about cross contamination. 

My server answered all my questions and even brought out the bag for the gluten free buns so I could see the ingredients in English myself. Yay, no nut flours! The burger was substantial and topped with a delicious local cheddar cheese.  The beef was savory and had just the right juicy texture without being greasy. The bun did not fall apart.  I also ordered parmesan and truffle fries. They were crispy and full of flavor.  

The location can’t be beat -  Right in view of the Chateau Frontenac. I sat at a table nestled in an open window and could watch people to my heart's desire. I even saw a few horse drawn carriages go right by me. 

I did not experience any issues, but since so many reviews have mentioned it, I would say to try it at your own risk. Our risk levels are unique and what works for me may not work for you.

Restaurant La Buche

49, rue Saint-Louis, Quebec City, Canada G1R 3Z2

I had every intention to enjoy breakfast here but somehow didn’t manage that. Checking their menu beforehand let me know that they have several gluten-free dishes for early morning risers and people who brunch. 

A friend and I caught a late-night dinner here, and I can’t say enough about the ambiance. Based on a Canadian sugar shack, this rustic restaurant is loaded with charm. So many little details from candles in aluminum maple syrup cans to a restroom you don’t want to miss! We once again grabbed a table next to an open window. We were treated with lots of head nods and an entire line of young students wanting to high five us.

I was craving warm comfort food so I ordered the split pea soup and plain mashed potatoes. It was just what my body was craving. Another server asked my server if I was eating ice cream with my soup! We got a good laugh out of that- I think plain mashed potatoes are probably not a common request, and to be fair, it did look like vanilla ice cream. 

In addition to my ginger beer, I decided to get dessert and try their famous maple fudge. It comes wrapped and ready to go in a sweet box that is perfect for gifting. But seriously keep this gift to yourself! I have a new love for maple fudge! It was so scrumptious. 

Later in the week, at another event I attended, La Buche offered more of this delicious fudge alongside their maple taffy. We were able to get an up-close look at the taffy being madet right on the ice. It was very yummy but be warned it is very, very, very sweet. And it drips much faster than a popsicle! 

Poutineville

49 Rue Saint-Louis, Québec, QC G1R 3Z2, Canada

If you are planning some upcoming Quebec City travel, you should know there is a competition among locals on which restaurant offers the best poutine. Not familiar with poutine? It is typically french fries, topped with gravy, and cheese curds. The squeakier the better! There is often meat or another protein added to this dish.

I went to Poutineville because I knew they had gluten-free dishes on their menu - and because I was walking right in front of it and I was hungry. The waitress took the time to tell me that the base was gluten free and showed me how to check to see which toppings were as well.

I went with the classic poutine topped with Philly steak, and green peppers. I'm pleased to tell you the cheese curds had an excellent squeak! I only regretted not adding red onions. The only downside I had was that the gluten free white chocolate brownie cake was all out! 

Veravin 2.0

233 Rue Saint-Paul, Québec, QC G1K 3W3, Canada

I really wanted to try Veravin 2.0 after reading so many reviews, but unfortunately, their dining hours  conflicted with other events I had. For sure the next time I visit! I've heard it is an excellent restaurant and all the reviewers seem to have great experiences.

Gluten Free Restaurants in

Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean

Zoo Sauvage de St Félicien

 2230 Bd du Jardin, Saint-Félicien, QC G8K 2T4, Canada

We’ve all been at a zoo or museum where we have to inspect all the items their cafe offers! This on site cafeteria filled my belly and they were more than accommodating.  

However, I failed to take a picture! The kitchen made me a fresh salad with strips of chicken and it was divine. My body was craving a salad and this hit the spot. They were more than willing to work with me on what I could or couldn’t have to eat. 

While enjoying our meal, sweet Emilie offered us samples of blueberry items from Délices Du Lac-Saint-John. The Saguenay region is famous for its wild blueberries. Wild blueberries are much smaller than the cultivated blueberries we find in the grocery store in the United States. They are also richer in antioxidants. I saved my wild blueberry jam and chutney for later to share with the family. 

La Baumier

1400, Bd du Jardin, Qc, Saint-Félicien, QC, Canada, Quebec

This was our first restaurant among the list of an “Ambassador of Flavors” for the Boreal region. Chefs Patrick Fournier and Sébastien Simard make their unique spin on Nordic-inspired dishes that focus on regional products including, top quality produce, seafood and meat. They were an absolute delight and came out to personally greet us. 

They treated us to a charcuterie starter with figs, a mix of cheese and meat items from a local organic farm, blueberry confit from Délices Du Lac-Saint-John, and toast from a local bakery Boulangerie Farine d'Alma (I skipped the bread).

 I also gave their signature cocktail a whirl, but omitted the gin (from Distillerie du Fjord) and enjoyed the mix of grapefruit juice, fir syrup and tonic water. 

I opted for a creamy and fresh seasonal soup of the day.. The combination of spices and vegetables was just what I needed. For my main course, I opted for the “Le Nachos Baumier”. The best part of these nachos was the delectable cheese used. According to their menu, it was La Fromagerie Bovin le Petit Cremeux.

All my friends had excellent upscale dishes that made me envious- but I was truly envious when they brought out two of the most scrumptious blueberry pies topped with whipped cream for the table to enjoy. Chef Patrick and Chef Sébastien might have known I would feel this way. They surprised me with an exquisite creme brulee that blew me away. No more jealousy felt!

Le Restaurant du Moulin

95 Rue Saint-George, Chambord, QC G0W 1G0, Canada

I spent two unforgettable nights in a renovated 1920s period house right in the heart of the historic village of Val-Jalbert. After rising in the morning, I took a leisurely walk following the sound of the waterfall. The view was so amazing that I was late for breakfast. The restaurant is located in the old paper pulp mill. The restaurant offers a continental breakfast as well as menu items. 

For the first morning I opted for the croissant breakfast sandwich minus the croissant. Egg, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes along with a fruit bowl fueled me for the day. The second morning I ordered the yogurt and granola plate with yogurt and fruit only and they were more than happy to oblige. 

We also dined in the cafeteria on the other side of the mill once for lunch. I was pleased to see several gluten free options in the line. I went with a bowl of vegetable chili, chips and fruit. 

Site de transmission culturelle ilnu Uashassihtsh

1514 Rue Ouiatchouan, Mashteuiatsh, QC G0W 2H0, Canada

 It was an honor to be able to take part in cultural activities for Canada’s National Aboriginal Peoples’ Day. The local community welcomed us in and we were able to partake in their traditional dinner. It was a bit tricky for me as I was trying to be careful not to eat something and inadvertently be “gluttened”.

The main dish offered was Tourtière du Lac-Saint-Jean. This iconic Quebec dish is usually made with different meats, potatoes, and a pie crust. The meat used on this occasion was moose. Side dishes included macaroni salad, mixed lettuce salad, beans, bread, and more. They also offered us a type of goose as well as beaver meat. The beaver was described as being extremely tender after being cooked over an open fire all day. 

I wish I were a more adventurous eater, but being a nervous nelly I stuck to the veggie and fruit plate and a protein bar I had packed for occasions like this. Even without eating much, this was such a wonderful event that I’m so pleased to have been a part of. It was heartwarming to see the community gathered together, singing, dancing and enjoying each other’s company while still reflecting on the past.

Aventure Rose des Vents

136 Rue du Quai, Sainte-Rose-du-Nord, QC G0V 1T0, Canada

More local cuisine was offered to us while we were visiting Parc Aventures Cap Jaseux. First, we were treated to samples of craft beer brewed locally by the microbrewery Le Saint-Fȗt. I had a sparkling blueberry lemon and mint drink.

The spread of food they put out was impressive. For the gluten free items they had:

Each item was lovingly labeled with the farm and region the ingredients were from along with allergens.

Restaurant Le Rabaska at Cap au Leste

551 Chem. du Cap à l'Est, Sainte-Rose-du-Nord, QC G0V 1T0, Canada

The evening meal here was a bit trickier with a set tasting menu, but the staff was more than accommodating. They tried several things to make sure I had something for a starter, a main dish, and a dessert. I started with a crisp salad with balsamic dressing. The main dish was a sweet and sour piglet cheek with peas, apricots, fava beans, mustard pickles, fried garlic, and watercress on the most delectable mashed potatoes. 

Dessert was a smooth creamy bowl of ice cream. The star of the show was a cosmopolitan cocktail that I sipped while overlooking the fjord. Talk about a once in a lifetime experience.

Breakfast was also in the same restaurant. They had a full-scale breakfast, bursting with options. I feasted on scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, ham, potato slices, blueberry jam, yogurt and fresh fruit. Add in a cup of coffee with a magnificent view of the fjord out the window, and I was in heaven.

Bistro La Chass e-Pinte

319 Rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste, L'Anse-Saint-Jean, QC G0V 1J0, Canada

Right on the fjord, you will find this local microbrewery that is also among the ambassadors of flavors for the Boreal Zone. It is hard to imagine this vibrant bistro was once an old fishing camp. We sat outside under cover in the middle of a rain shower, and couldn’t have asked for a better ambiance.

To drink I went with a “Rosie Forever”. It is a brut based apple cider fermented with raspberries. It was super crisp! The server recommended I get it on tap versus bottle for more crispness. 

For my main dish, I went with the nachos gratin with added chicken. This was one of my favorite meals on the trip. Once again, the cheese blew me away- but so did the two salsas served with it.

One was a traditional tomato based salsa that was fresh and flavorful. The other had some sweet and savory element to it. We had a bit of a language barrier, so I wasn’t quite sure if it was mango or something else. I wish I’d inquired more because I’m still thinking about it!

O’Battilage at Battures- Hôtel sur le Fjord-du-Saguenay

6295 Bd de la Grande-Baie S arr, Saguenay, Quebec G7B 3P6, Canada

O’Battilage has large windows that overlook another area of the fjord. They have recently renovated, and the bar area is chic and tastefully done. I started with a fun drink- a blueberry vodka cocktail. It was not something I’d usually order, but it was delightful, so I’m glad I decided to go all in on the area's famous blueberries. 

My starter was a pulled pork taco. I was surprised at how fresh and tasty the corn tortilla was, and that is saying a lot from this Texas girl. The corn was charred, and the pork had a hint of citrus to it. The salsa also had a fruity element to it. I devoured it. 

The main was a bit harder for me with all my allergies. Again, here we were presented with a set tasting menu because of our large group. The waitress was thoughtful, kind and patient. We came up with something that would work for me. I had their zucchini stuffed with lentils au gratin with pikauba. I had it without lentils due to an unfortunate allergy to those.

There were other veggies in it as well- cherry tomatoes and carrots. I’m unsure if that is a usual thing or if they added them because I didn’t have lentils. Let me tell you about the pikauba cheese. Holy wow! It's a semi-soft Québécois cheese with a rich flavor and fantastic melting properties. I will be on the lookout for this one! 

For dessert, I was spoiled with another creme brûlée. I never make this dessert at home, so I always enjoy it. It feels decadent, rich, and something that would take too much effort.

They are also ambassadors of flavors for the Boreal Zone. We had our last breakfast of the trip here the following morning. To say their French toast looked incredible is an understatement. I think my kids would have been in heaven. I stuck with eggs, crispy bacon, and fresh fruit on a bed of micro-greens. I basked in my last cup of coffee next to the fjord, knowing my time was up on this adventure.

My Overall Thoughts on traveling in Quebec with celiac disease:

    One thing I feel wasn’t missing was tasting the local culinary flavors. So many new foods were brought to my attention- hello wild blueberries and fantastic new cheeses! So often with having celiac, we can start to think of all the things we can’t have, and feel cheated, especially when traveling. But I was never lacking good food.

   Quebec City and the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-John area never had me feeling deprived. Plentiful dishes were around every corner, so much so that it is hard to say which of these is my favorite. More than anything, even with a language barrier, every location worked with me to find something that fit my needs. They did so cheerfully and with true concern. I felt that every request was taken very seriously.  

I hope this guide will help you on your gastronomic journey in Quebec. If you have a gluten free restaurant that is your favorite, please name it below to help out all our readers. 

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