I always recommend the same thing in Quebec City: go to Chez Temporel for the croissants. Better than crossing the Atlantic. Open until 5pm.

For fun casual dining in Montreal, we like to pickup a bottle of wine at one of the SAQ's and peruse the menus of the BYOB restaurants on Duluth St - lots of interesting choices - Italian, Greek, Afghan, Asian, French, etc.

thank you.

Lauren

(1) Chez Muffy is absolutely divine -- the service (maitre d' couldnt have been nicer or professional) , the atmosphere (furnishings to die for in an old warehouse setting), the food -- it's down near the water and you prob want to taxi there in the Old City; (2) 1640 Bistro is right across from the Frontenac off the Square and can't be missed -- we first went for lunch, then supper at the bar, then finally dinner. Delicious, reasonable, fun vibe, very good food -- had been recommended by friends who raved about their pork chops and we agree -- reasonably priced, takes resv. (3) Ophelia is a nice walk out of the old town up the main drag, great seafood, great vibe, located along the row of the old brownstones (or that's what we call them in NYC)-- husband had the duck while I had the scallops w black pudding which was delicious. Cafe Temporel did have good croissants but it's difficult to find and walk to unless you like (more) steep hills.

The Montreal restaurant I trust most is Quartier-General in the heart of the Plateau. Fine cooking at reasonable prices and customers can bring their own wine with no corkage fee. (That's APP in French.) Here is the website although it's fairly skimpy. https://lequartiergeneral.ca/

Reservations are needed in the evening.

I don't know if the market operates in winter, but we love to visit food markets and the one at Jean-Talon did not disappoint (actually fabulous, but we were there in early August). https://www.tripsavvy.com/jean-talon-market-2391973

At the market, there is a fixed market (small grocery) that advertises cannoli on the outside. The cannoli is the best we've ever had.

If food markets appeal to you, walk out of Quebec walled old city to Epicerie Moisan, oldest grocery store of North America, operating since the 1800s. What a treat that was. Just a few blocks down on Rue St. Jean. Bring shopping bag -- can't see anyone walking out empty-handed from this find!

In Quebec City, Le Lapin Sauté is good for dinner. Aux Anciens Canadiens is touristy but we think the food (traditional Quebecois specialties) is good. The lunches and early dinner prices are reasonable there
The Paillard bakery has good sandwiches, soups, pastries.

If you are familiar with Louise Penny's mysteries, Bury Your Dead is set in QC and the Morrin Centre is the setting for the murder.