If you’re looking for a restaurant in Québec City that feels like stepping back into classic French dining, Le Continental is it. Known for its tableside cooking and famously loved by Anthony Bourdain, this Old Québec spot delivers more than just dinner.

Le Continental in Quebec City

Located in the heart of Old Québec, Le Continental has been serving classic French cuisine since 1956.

The restaurant built its reputation on traditional tableside service, preparing sauces and finishing dishes directly at your table.

It gained even more international attention when Anthony Bourdain visited during his time in Québec City.

Highlighting its old-school charm and timeless dining experience on his show.

So it was no wonder that I was so excited to try it, especially as a huge fan.

Our Experience at Le Continental

Here is a look into our winter visit to Le Continental, from the first glass of wine to the final flambéed coffee.

We visited on a snowy winter afternoon and sat right next to the window, which gave us the perfect view of the snow falling over Old Québec.

The setting alone made the night feel special before the food even arrived.

Starting with Wine, Cheese, and Soup

We began our meal with a glass of red wine paired with the Québec cheese platter, which featured three local cheeses.

It was the perfect way to ease into the evening and sample something regional right away.

We also ordered the turnip and maple soup, which was warm, slightly sweet, and incredibly comforting.

On a snowy evening, it was exactly what we wanted to start the night.

Want more foodie spots? Here are the Best Restaurants in Quebec City: Where to Eat & What to Try!

Duck à l’Orange Flambé for Two

For our main course, we ordered the Duck à l’orange flambé for two, and this is where the full tableside experience came to life.

The cart rolled up to our table, our server prepared the sauce right in front of us, and then flambéed the pan tableside.

Watching the flames rise while smelling the orange and rich sauce come together was such a memorable moment.

There was more than enough food for two people, and it came with hearty potatoes and fresh vegetables that balanced the dish perfectly.

It felt classic, interactive, and unlike anything you typically experience at a restaurant today.

Black Forest Cake and a Flambéed Coffee

For dessert, we had to try the Black Forest cake. It was rich, layered, and the perfect sweet ending after such a decadent meal.

Of course, I could not leave without ordering one of their flambéed coffees.

I chose the Bresilien, which includes brandy, Grand Marnier, and Tia Maria.

The server prepared and flambéed it right in front of me, and the flame danced in the glass as we wrapped up the night.

Reservations at Le Continental

If you are planning to dine at Le Continental in Québec City, I highly recommend making a reservation in advance.

This is one of the most well-known restaurants in Old Québec, and tables can fill up quickly!

Especially on weekends and during peak travel seasons.

Because of the classic tableside service, dinner here is meant to be a full experience, so plan to take your time and enjoy the evening.

Explore More of Quebec

I love visiting Quebec City! And every time we go, we find something new.

For more of my favorite restaurants, read Best Restaurants in Quebec City: Where to Eat & What to Try.

For cocktails, here are 4 Hidden Speakeasies in Quebec City You Need to Find.

Here are 32 Amazing Things to Do in Quebec City.

Read all of my Canada Travel Guides!