Nearly everything the French touch tends to immediately reach a higher level of sophistication. And food is no exception. The province of Quebec is packed full of yummies, from simple foods like cheddar cheese, apple cider and maple syrup, all the way up to the most artful culinary offerings. There’s no shortage of fine dining in Quebec City, which means those who wish to stand in the spotlight need to try extra hard. And after several trips to Quebec City, I can confidently say that when it comes to delivering a rounded package of a perfect dinner date Panache takes the … um … cake!
Chef Louis Pacquelin’s ever-changing menu is based on seasonal ingredients primarily sourced from their very own organic garden on the nearby Île d’Orléans and small, local producers. He revisits classic Quebecois cuisine but with a modern twist with starters like the Le Puy green lentil soup with orange zest, and mushroom ravioli with Louis d’Or cheese and fresh herbs; mains like the most delicious un-battered calamari I’ve ever had served with kalamata olives in a beautiful tomato sauce and Arctic char with romanesco broccoli and Maltaise sauce; and sweet endings like meringue with lime and dark rum sorbet, and candied apple with green apple sorbet and shortbread. A meal at Panache is just darn perfect from start to finish.
But it isn’t just about the food here. Tucked inside a historic 19th century building, the ambiance at the restaurant (and the entire hotel!) is more than just the cherry on top. Rustic stone walls, a high ceiling with wooden beams, and a dramatic fireplace create a perfectly warm and romantic setting at Panache, inviting you to sit and eat slowly. Actually, you’ll never want to leave so after lingering over an exquisite dinner, you may as well stay the night at the hotel.
The hotel is built on top of one of the richest archeological sites of the area and some of the building’s elements date back to the 17th century. This history is celebrated throughout the establishment. The impeccably designed hotel lobby, reading room, bar and many of the other common areas are decorated with artifacts dating back 400 years.
But don’t think this place is living in the past. Walk into your room, and you’ll find it furnished with every modern amenity a city-dweller could want. Every form of luxury is available at your fingertips including heated bathroom floors, fogless mirrors, goose down duvet and pillows, and a deep-soak bathtub. Get a room with a terrace where you can enjoy a beverage from your mini-bar, and make sure to attend a complimentary yoga class at Le Gym. And if you’re too lazy to get out of bed in the morning, Panache will deliver an exquisite breakfast right to your room.
More in Quebec City
Eat more: Fresh baked goodies at le Petit Conchon Dingue, black currant everything at Cassis Monna & filles, and the best poutine of your life at Chez Ashton
See: The view of Montmorency falls from Ile d’Orleans, the magnificent Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, and uber romantic Old Quebec at night.
Related: 7 not-to-miss experiences in Canada’s most romantic city
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