Saint-Roch

By day, Maelstrøm is a gourmet coffee house serving some of the best cold brew in Quebec City. By night, though, it morphs into a cozy, low-key bar that feels like a locals’ hangout. Exposed-brick walls and mismatched vintage furnishings give it a bit of a Brooklyn vibe, and the cocktails (poured by the friendly bartenders) are strong. It’s a great place to meet up for a predinner drink before a meal at one of the cute neighboring restaurants in Saint-Roch.

Le Clocher Penché, in downtown Quebec City, works with local farmers to create its veggie- and fish-heavy menu, and many of the dishes are almost too pretty to eat.

The pies at Nina are as Neapolitan as you’ll get outside of Naples. Even the wood-fired oven was imported from Italy, and the restaurant’s two owners are certified by the APN (Associazione Pizzaiuoli Napoletani, whose certification is bestowed on pizza makers who follow a strict set of guidelines). There are eighteen varieties, but our favorite is the margherita, simply but perfectly made with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil.