Initiale

Initiale is not only one of the elite restaurants of Québec City, but one of the best in the entire province. The palatial setting of tall windows, columns, and a deeply recessed ceiling sets a gracious tone, and the welcome is both cordial and correct. Subdued lighting and the muffled noise level help, too. This is a good place to cast economy to the winds and go with one of the prix-fixe menus. Dinner might start with a buckwheat crepe folded around an artichoke, a round of crabmeat with a creamy purée of onions, and a flash-fried leaf of baby spinach that adds a delicate crackle, all arrayed on the plate as on an artist's palette. It might continue with grilled tuna supported by sweet garlic, salsify, and lemon marmalade, and a swirl of pasta with marguerite leaves. Québec cheeses are an impressive topper. Men should wear jackets; women can pull out the stops.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.