BISTRO LE SAM

Restaurant · Old Québec

BISTRO LE SAM

Restaurant · Old Québec

1

1 Rue des Carrières, Québec, QC G1R 5J5, Canada

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BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null
BISTRO LE SAM by null

Highlights

Creative shared plates, mixology, and river views  

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1 Rue des Carrières, Québec, QC G1R 5J5, Canada Get directions

fairmont.com
@bistrolesam

$$$ · Menu

Reserve

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1 Rue des Carrières, Québec, QC G1R 5J5, Canada Get directions

+1 418 692 3861
fairmont.com
@bistrolesam
𝕏
@fairmonthotels

$$$ · Menu

Reserve

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Last updated

Aug 9, 2025

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@afar

Canada’s Most Charming Hotels for Winter Stays - AFAR

"A casual on-site restaurant where roaring fires create a cozy winter atmosphere; presented as one of the hotel's three year-round dining options for guests seeking relaxed meals after exploring the old city." - Michael Kaminer

https://www.afar.com/hotels/winter-travel-canada
View Postcard for BISTRO LE SAM

Samantha Singh

Google
We came here for dinner on Canada Day and had an amazing experience. You definitely need to make sure you have reservations, especially when there are lots of festivals or events taking place in the city. All staff working at this bistro were super friendly and kind. Our waiter was very kind and made an effort to make our experience more than just about the meal. However, the meal was fantastic. It's definitely a more costly experience, but for this restaurant I would say it was worth the cost because not only was the food good. The experience was great.

Alejandra v. valdez

Google
They have good food and great drinks. Definitely make a reservation if you plan to go as it cane get quite busy during dinner time. Had a salad and beef, both were great. Really recommend as a spot to end your day after strolling through Quebec city, where you can get a view of St Lawrence River (if you get a table by the window).

Ratna

Google
We had a wonderful dining experience! Annie provided amazing service, making us feel welcome and taken care of throughout our meal. She even brought fresh cut ginger for my wife who wasn’t feeling well. The vegetarian soups were absolutely delicious—full of flavor and very satisfying. I also really enjoyed the drinks, which paired perfectly with the meal. Highly recommend this spot for anyone looking for great food and service! Thank you Annie, pleasure meeting you and enjoyed your service!!!!

S Nhem

Google
Would not recommend. Food was just average. Our server was terrible. First of all, he only directed his comments or questions to my friend, who is white and I am not. He said the basics, no conversation… no recommendations, just no personality for a server in reputable, tourist-centric restaurant. It wasn’t the experience we were expecting nor have received from other restaurants in the area. Very disappointing.

Edel Lala

Google
Le Sam Bistro, located within the magnificent Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, provided us with an exceptional dining experience that perfectly complemented our luxurious stay. As hotel guests, we were looking forward to enjoying a meal in-house, and Le Sam certainly didn’t disappoint. The ambiance of the bistro was both elegant and relaxed, with stylish interiors and large windows that created a warm, inviting atmosphere. From our table, we were able to enjoy a breathtaking view of the St. Lawrence River, which added an unforgettable backdrop to our dining experience and made our meal feel even more special. We started with the fried calamari, which was crispy on the outside and tender inside—expertly seasoned and served with a flavourful dipping sauce. For small bites, we also shared the baby back ribs glazed with bbq and whisky sauce. The standout dish for us was the fish and chips, served with a creative twist: we added foie gras to elevate the dish. The result was indulgent and memorable—the richness of the foie gras paired beautifully with the crispy, flaky fish. Service was attentive, making the entire meal enjoyable. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful lunch. Dining at Le Sam Bistro was a highlight of our time at the Château Frontenac, and we would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a quality meal paired with exceptional views in the heart of Quebec City.

Abdul Aziz Al-Amin

Google
The ambiance and atmosphere of the restaurant was phenomenal, food on the other hand was simply average. Fries were soggy, poutine was cold(cheese didn't melt, beef was cold). Nothing special. I've had dinner at other Fairmont locations where I found the food to be way tastier and better quality. Service was also nothing exceptional. Wouldn't recommend.

Jessie Qian

Google
A memorable lunch inside the Château Frontenac Le Sam is not just about the view — though the panoramic windows overlooking the St. Lawrence River are absolutely stunning — the food holds its own. We had lunch here and everything from service to plating felt refined yet unpretentious. Here’s what we ordered and loved: Grilled asparagus – Lightly charred and drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette, a refreshing starter. Salmon tartare – Fresh, clean flavors with a nice crunch from the chips. Simple and elegant. Pork ribs – Tender and flavorful, with a sweet BBQ-style glaze. Very comforting. Bavette steak – Rich and meaty with just the right chew, well-executed and satisfying. Filet mignon with foie gras – The highlight of the meal. Perfectly cooked tenderloin topped with seared foie gras that simply melts in your mouth. Luxurious and unforgettable. Service was attentive but never rushed, and the ambiance — elegant, sunlit, and relaxed — made the whole experience feel special. 💡Tip: Book ahead and request a window seat — the view adds so much to the experience. Whether you’re staying at the Château or just visiting Old Quebec, Le Sam is worth a stop for a scenic and delicious me

Mei Mei

Google
Bistro Le Sam was an absolute highlight of our visit. The atmosphere was vibrant yet relaxed, with stunning views overlooking the St. Lawrence River. All of our dishes were beautifully presented and tasted delicious. The service was top-notch. Our server was friendly and made great recommendations. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy quality cuisine in a gorgeous setting. We’ll definitely be coming back!
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Danielle F.

Yelp
This restaurant was so nice, I ate here twice! Bistro le Sam is located in Le Chateau Frontenac , but don't let its location inside the hotel fool you. This is actually the informal dining option at the hotel, but it still offers a ton of elevated options. The decor is rich colors and brass finishes; views are of the art deco style bar or the St. Lawrence river and boardwalk -- there isn't a bad seat in the house. I had dinner one day and lunch another. Everything was delicious. Highlights were the poutine, butternut squash soup, and steak tartare. Drinks were generous and cocktails well mixed. They made my friend a cosmopolitan on "snow ice" basically a cosmo on shaved ice, that was a real treat. Service was impeccable both times, but I would recommend getting a reservation if possible to avoid lines of tourists and hotel guests looking for a last minute meal. Reservations are via OpenTable or through the hotel.
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Elsa S.

Yelp
food delicious service friendly ambiance delightful, hip, and not too loud (go early/pre-8pm)
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Puja G.

Yelp
I was skeptical of this place because of the location inside a hotel, even if it is a chateau, and given that there was a snow storm the same day keeping all guests stranded at the hotel. However, I was very pleasantly surprised by the staff that was able to extend the restaurant hours to seat all guests and the quantity of items that were still on the menu. We even asked to move to a larger table knowing how much we planned to order and were accommodated very quickly. The overall vibe is one of a nice lounge with intimate and group setting places including a nice fireplace. Our waiter was very friendly and despite working so many tables and literally running at times he never stopped being friendly and giving great recommendations. We ordered the French onion soup and it was a good portion for 1-2 people. It was flavorful while not feeling too heavy that we wouldn't be able to enjoy our entrees. For our mains we ordered the steak and goat cheese en croute. For the goat cheese dish I wasn't sure what I expected but I loved it. The ingredients were mixed and combined almost into a mini pie which was delicious and crisp yet soft at the same time. The honey with caramelized onions and goat cheese was the perfect combination of flavors - this actually may be one of the best dishes I had while in town. For dessert our waiter recommended the sticky toffee pudding and it was amazing with a slight nutty flavor yet sweet. That dessert alone would be enough for me to go back.
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Julia W.

Yelp
Amazing food. We had a booth looking at the river. The food was excellent and our waiter was 5 star. Would definitely come back again.
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Dave S.

Yelp
Unfortunately, this cozy bistro lacked imagination in food, leaving one confused about the menu options provided. For such a world famous site. I'm left unimpressed and greatly disappointed.. if you're looking for a place to eat avoid this place. The views are better on the outside.
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Bryan F.

Yelp
A fancy bistro with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River. Service was extremely professional and immaculate. Staff were very courteous and attentive to patrons' needs. Dishes were exceptional as well. The seafood casserole that I had was very rich and delicious! The maple creme brûlée tasted like heaven on earth! It's a popular venue so I advise making a reservation prior to your arrival. It's a perfect lunch spot either before or after a guided tour of Chateau Frontenac!
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John F.

Yelp
Outstanding. First - the elegant yet cozy atmosphere made for the perfect setting for a great dinner. We had a wonderful view of the river from our table - thank you for granting our request!!! The food and service were both phenomenal. I started with onion soup, which had such rich, hearty flavor. It was scrumptious. My smoked meat sandwich was out of this world. It was similar to pastrami and had a good salty taste. Perfectly complementing the meat were some good pickles and a sweet coleslaw. The crème brûlée was the chef's kiss. Wonderful evening here. Check this place out! I'm always reticent to eat in hotels, but being this was the hotel we were staying in, and the restaurant was as pretty as the hotel, we had to try it. It was worth every bite!
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M J.

Yelp
Food is good but not amazing. Drinks are ok. Service is quick. Views and ambiance are nice. Pricey but that's expected because of where it's located.
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Shu Jin S.

Yelp
I was under the weather and accidentally overslept, so we missed our original reservation time (by a lot). But luckily they were able to squeeze us in at the bar, which sadly meant that we did not get the incredible view that most rave about. Ambiance (alone) deserves a 5-star rating and we had to walk through the seating with the view before we left the restaurant. Food-wise, I got the oysters (excellent) and the beef tartare as my apps and the smoked meat sandwich for my main. The beef tartare was just ok, and while the meat in the smoked meat sandwich was incredible, I thought the cold slaw and bbq sauce overpowered the dish. I was so looking forward to this, as our final meal of our trip (and the most pricey), but didn't feel that the food justified the price tag, tbh.
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Biyu X.

Yelp
The restaurant is inside the Fairmont Hotel. It's a luxury restaurant that it located on the ground floor of the hotel, however, compared with the Dufferin Terrace, the restaurant is on 2nd floor. We arrived around 3pm that the lunch time was almost over, we just needed to wait for a few minutes. Then we got seated to close to the window. The view was nice, we could see the terrace widely. We had Smoked Meat($35), which was different layers of beef on a burger, it was really juicy with the sauce and cheese as part of the layers; and Roasted Cod with veggie ($44), which was not a big piece, but it was really fresh tho, served with squash and its sauce, really tasty; and add on foie gras ($22), which was like a dessert, with some cherry sauce and mango sauce, it was a small piece of duck liver, not spreads. The sauces were homemade, totally nice, not too sweet. I would love to go again, if I live close by. The prices are reasonable, view is gorgeous, and server was nice.
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Meena P.

Yelp
We accidentally ended up in Le Sam after the bar area at 1608 outside the restaurant was so full we couldn't get in and I'm glad it ended that way. A super beautiful restaurant and an amazing bar area with top notch servers. I absolutely loved our drinks and apps here at the bar. The staff are so professional and courteous and check in on you . We ordered a Rosè for my friend and I had the corpse reviver . Loved my cocktail in the nick and Nora glass with my flower. Drink was nice and refreshing and light. Our food was also perfect for drinks. The cheese board was amazing and full of goodies , 3 cheeses which we got to choose and fruit and crackers and jams and it was beautifully presented. Also the salmon tartar was my favorite. So fresh and great with a little lemon juice and the dressing was light and salmon not fishy which I normally have an issue with. Both went down well and we still left ready for dinner as we were able to take our time and not be rushed. It's a fancy place at the fairmont Frontenac definitely worth a visit if you're not staying there. A beautiful dining area and the service like I said is amazing. Also tried the oysters and they were smooth and went down well with the mignonette. Not sure where they were from but they were fantastic. If I came back just here I'd go for the actual dinner. If you're looking for high end that's worth your money Le Sam is a good bet.
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Patricia Z.

Yelp
What a great experience. The views are amazing. Service was great, our server took extra time to explain the menu. The Fried calamari was delicious/ if you are staying at the Frontenac this is a must try.
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Lan T.

Yelp
I was very excited to dine here since it is located inside a beautiful and historic chateau. However, the food was so so. What I wanted to call out is I didn't have good experience with the host. The host was very unfriendly. I did show up 15 minutes before my rsvp time. I came up to her and she did not check my name or anything. She asked me what my rsvp time was and said I needed to come back at my rsvp time. I then asked her "Don't you want to check to see what my name is on the list" and she didn't even bother. I never seen this attitude any where else. Normally the norm would be to show up a few mins before rsvp time in the event there is a line to get in. But any way I don't think I will ever come back
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Tanya A.

Yelp
Beautiful restaurant. Very popular place to be. Service was slow to start but our waiter improved once he took our order. I found the food items to be wildly overpriced and the portions were quite small. The restaurant is more expensive than some restaurants at more luxurious hotels. I ordered a pasta dish and asked them to add shrimp to it. The portion was the size for a small child and they added 3 shrimp to it for $49. Should have been more like $35 at most. I was still hungry after eating my dish. And for the record I'm fairly petit and am not a big eater. But if you just want the experience of dining at the Fairmont (the prettiest bldg in the area) then this is a nice place with a nice view of the water and Pufferin Terrace.
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Evita A.

Yelp
Had our first dinner here after checking in at the fairmont hotel where we were staying. Even if you're a guest you still have to make reservations since they get very busy and it was a Friday night so I'm glad we did! This restaurant had great views if you request it, we didn't know so we had standard seating which was very chic and cozy since we sat right by the fire place! After eating here I now understand what the rave was all about! We ordered a bunch of small plates with a bottle of wine since we wanted to share and taste it all. We had the French onion soup, pulled beef cheek poutine, calamari, fries and the burger, ribs, . Every bite I had of everything we ordered was delightful. It was my first time having poutine and beef cheek and so glad I had it here for my first time. It was cooked to perfection, it honestly melted in my mouth and seasoning was just right. It was quite filling so I'm glad we shared everything we had. Having poutine here for the first time made me wanting more for our trip! Def worth having a meal here, whether you're a guest at the hotel or not. You won't regret it!
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Blake H.

Yelp
Bistro Le Sam is amazing!!!! First, when you walk in the restaurant is gorgeous with stylish decor fit for royals! Our service was fantastic and our food was amazing as well. You won't regret coming to this place for lunch or dinner. It is pricey, but well worth it.
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Jefferson L.

Yelp
The French onion soup was one of the best I've had. Everything else was better than average. The view to the river was very nice. Wait staff was prompt and friendly. Prices are not inexpensive. A nice ambiance albeit dark.
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Maya K.

Yelp
My boyfriend treated me for my birthday! All the staff was lovely and the food was great! We got the cheese platter, the seafood casserole, the mushroom rigatoni, the crème brûlée, and some espresso! So so tasty :-)
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Matt P.

Yelp
Located inside of the Fairmont Frontenac in the 1608 restaurant. We ordered some calamari and the foie gras mousse. I thought the food was just ok. The drinks was just average. Our server though, was great. Very attentive.
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Alicia P.

Yelp
Top notch cocktails! I was highly impressed with the fun creations these guys put together and as the place filled up to a FULL bar and restaurant, they continued to keep the drinks flowing. Set inside the infamous Fairmont le Château Frontenac, anyone can enter... The lobby of this hotel is beautiful, but just walk through and find yourself at SAM and seat yourself at the bar (or they will seat you)... enjoy views of the St Lawerence River, but as impressive as the views are, these bartenders are amazing at what they do. Beautiful cocktails. And tasty! I had to eat along with my drinks or... well, we all know what happens when you don't eat when you drink, right? The board they suggested was the smallest available. It was really big and I tried hard to eat it all, but I had leftovers. It was so good, I actually took it with me! These guys know how to handle a crowd and make fantastic drinks. This is a must visit - I don't care how many times you've been here. I love it!
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Thang T.

Yelp
Important to have a reservation beforehand. The service is impeccable, the interior is stunning and the views from the hotel are beautiful. For the given price point, the quality of the food was acceptable. I recommend the roasted cod and the Québec cheese board. The beef flank steak was salty and a little tough.
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Sandee L.

Yelp
The cocktails are where it's at at Bistro le Sam! Beautifully presented, well balanced and tasty. The main bar had a more extensive mixology menu, but opened at 2pm and didn't fit our timeline. Fortunately, Bistro le Sam opened at 11:30am for us to get our drink on. My nephew got the burger (he said it was ok), my niece got the kids chicken tenders (she said they were ok) and my bf got the foie gras terrine (he said it was pretty liver-y, and also just ok), so I'd say stick with the drinks here. Super chic ambiance and there's even have a sunroom dining area with a view. Ask for a seat there if you can! Make reservations if you can. We walked in at opening and were able to get seated right away, but might have gotten lucky because it seemed like it was the only option open at that time and the line grew pretty quickly.
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Jon H.

Yelp
It's in a very popular hotel. There was a lot of car and foot traffic trying to get in And out of the building. However, it seemed fairly quiet for a Friday night. We did make reservations but it seemed like we probably didnt need it. I always recommend reservations if it's an option though. The service was great. Our waitress was very nice, informative and routinely checked on us. Drinks were brought out quickly and so was the food once we ordered it. It's fairly quiet inside and the tables have plenty of room between each other. I ordered the French onion soup which was my first time ever and while I probably wouldn't get again due to the soggy bread texture, it had a great taste and I'd think if you like French onion you'd love this one. My main was a special of the day. It was a white fish but I couldn't make understand the name. To be honest, it gave me red snapper impressions. A light flaky white fish that doesn't have a ton of flavor. It was light and paired well with the cauliflower mash and wild rice. I'm not a big seafood eater but I try to make myself try new things. Bread 8/10 Cheese and Charcuterie board 8.5/10 Fish and rice 7/10 French Onion Soup 9/10 I was pleasantly surprised with the place. I would definitely return on another visit to Quebec City!
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Yanli X.

Yelp
We came here for dinner with reservations. For two people, we got the half size Caesar salad (no additional toppings), the French Onion Soup, and the Guinea Fowl Confit. Guinea Fowl Confit: best guinea fowl I've ever had, one of the top poultry dishes I've ever had. The meat was so tender it was almost creamy. It was also super flavorful with that rich dark meat flavor and the browned outside. It was served on a bed of "risotto" (some kind of pasta). The risotto was creamy but a little bland. It had no chance against the star of the show. French Onion Soup: really delicious as well. The cheese was not overpowering and the soup itself was so rich. The generous portions of onion was so soft it would melt in your mouth along with the soaked bread and cheese. Caesar salad: I wasn't expecting much and just wanted to eat some veggies. This was not great and I'm glad I only got the half size. Pass on this. The service was great and our food came out super fast. Our waiter was very attentive and checked in on us multiples times. Ambiance is casual but elevated. A good number of nicely dressed older couples as well as families with children.
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Kristine C.

Yelp
Service is a bit slow but the foie gras was amazing!! We had the restaurant add it as an add on to our eack of lamb! I loved the french onion soup too - very rich and filling, great to share!
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Pablo B.

Yelp
Really loved it - didn't stay at the Frontenac but this gave us a nice window into the experience. We went for lunch and sat in the 'alcove' area. Really nice spot overlooking the river. We stayed for quite a while as it was so cosy while the first snow fell outside. Our waitress was outstanding; all of the service was friendly, fast, and very helpful. The food was also really excellent. I got the seafood cake and a side of poutine. Both were really tasty - especially liked that the gravy on the poutine wasn't overly salty. My wife and daughter both had the French onion soup and really liked it. Also had a nice Boston salad on the side. The highlight was likely the dessert - a lemongrass creme brûlée. Absolutely delicious. It was a bit pricey but good value overall. Really enjoyable experience.
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Crystal Ann G.

Yelp
Staying at the Chateau Frontenac so we decided to try Le Sam at the hotel since we had a long travel day. I was a little nervous because I never know what to expect from hotel restaurants. Also, I had some very traditional eaters with me who don't like to explore new thingsDuck Wings so I had my fingers crossed. Everything was amazing from the service to the food and atmosphere. Annie (I think was our waitresses name) was very attentive and helpful with navigating the menu and it was a packed Friday night so at first service was a little slow but we also requested to sit in a specific area so understood because they originally wanted to seat us at a different table. She was wonderful though at juggling all her tables and our thousand questions. We had the cod, salmon and fish and chips and all were fantastic. I had the oyster appetizer and duck drumsticks - both were fantastic but I'll be coming back for the duck before I leave and will dream of them for years to come!
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Yingxin Y.

Yelp
You have to make a reservation at least 3 or 4 weeks ago before you get there. They won't take walk-in. For service: The only thing I disappointed is the service. I had the appetizer very quick but the main dishes came up too late, I got mad after waiting 30 mins. For food: Confit Guinea Fowl Thigh is my favorites. The chicken thigh is crispy and the pasta and the sauce are taste good. It came up with cheese and mushroom, which has enrich the texture. The sauce is very creamy too Black Garlic Rack of Lamb has gravy and mashed potato under the lab. Duo Of Monkfish and Scallops is the most expensive but worthless dish. Monkfish is so bland. Opera of Foie Gras with Coureur Des Bois costs $22 but I couldn't believe that is a dessert. It's so sweet. The texture is more likely a mousse cake, but made of foie gras. Appetizers Tasting Board has three appetizers including Quebec Beef Tartare, Lobster cake and Gambas and Avocado. Quebec Beef Tartare taste really good. Me and my friends all love this tartare. But compare to it Lobster cake and Gambas and Avocado are just decent. For vibes: That was a nice environment. The restaurant inside Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, which is next to the river. If you are lucky enough, you will be assigned seating next to the river, which has a great view of St Lawerence River So overall, this restaurant deserve a 4 stars

K. K.

Yelp
It was so good! We stayed in the Fairmont and had been trying different restaurants outside of the hotel. On the last night we tried Bistro le Sam and I'm so glad we did-it was the best meal we had in QC! The restaurant itself is beautiful with a great view of the river. We ordered beef tartare, the mushroom pasta dish, and two kids meals. All were excellent-we've been eating a lot of beef tartare and this one was nicely seasoned, fresh and delicious served with fries, crisps and a salad (all of which was great). The pasta dish was also superb. My kiddos loved their meals too. Drinks were also excellent-beautiful and tasty. They made my kids the prettiest Shirley temple (my 5 year old told me to ask for the recipe ha!) Warm bread and butter was also a nice touch. Waiter was friendly and helpful. Make reservations as many people were being turned away.
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Ari K.

Yelp
My first time in Canada so I felt compelled to get poutine and this hit the spot! The fries were smother in cheese curds, gravy and the braised beef cheeks set it over the top.
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Maryann K.

Yelp
For a restaurant in the Frontenac, prices are pretty fair. Nice wine list, swanky bar and very friendly service. The salmon tartare was so delicious and flavorful. My husband enjoyed the beef tartare. Also, he said the French onion soup was one of the best ones he's had outside of France. Salad was light and delicious- perfect offset to the fries. About those fries - root vegetable fries are a wonderful idea. I am a fry snob and the reason this review gets 4 stars instead of 5 is because some of the veggies did not have a good texture - very stringy and tough. I think it's a concept that can be pulled off, they just need to taste their own product to improve it. Overall, it was a nice way to spend time at the Frontenac without berating there overnight.
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Julia R.

Yelp
I was so looking forward to this meal after reading the reviews! I started with the bees knees cocktail. It was light and refreshing. For dinner, I had a small glass of rose and had the "planche de nod entrees" which is a plate of the chef's favorite starters-beef tartare, a seafood cake, ceviche. All delicious/perfectly prepared. I would be giving 5 stars, but they were understaffed and I had to wait almost 30 minutes for my check after I had finished my wine and dinner. Finally, the manager started helping the server. The server had the entire room of tables with no help. I probably would have ordered dessert, but knew it would take much too long. I felt terrible for the server and he did the absolute best he could, but they need to get some more help!
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Brenda G.

Yelp
The food and service was great. There was a couple of bumps in the road though that was in no way the restaurants fault. We booked our reservation over a month ago, and were told by the hostess that we couldn't be accommodated. Spoke to the waitress, and that wasn't true. They apologized for the error. The second was there was a 6 year old child beside us having a temper tantrum for the entire time we were there. The parents did nothing about this, and it upset everyone near us. Again, nothing to do with the restaurant, but please...parents...this place is expensive. Do not ruin everyone's experience by letting your child scream at the top of their lungs for an hour and a half. I felt badly for their server who tried their best to manage the situation. Servers should not have to babysit on top of their duties.
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Richard M.

Yelp
Wow what a view! The restaurant is inside the majestic hotel Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, the food was absolutely delicious. First off is the French onion soup, which according to the server uses their local "1608 Cheese" and is absolutely delicious. The main course salmon was cooked perfectly, and the entire experience plus the exceptional service just makes the visit 5 stars.
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Kim T.

Yelp
The foods here was good in terms of flavor and services. I had reservation here on Sunday night for dinner on Easter Day. It wasn't busy at all to my surprise since this restaurant is located inside the hotel Fairmont which seem to be super busy on that day. I was celebrating a birthday dinner so the servers being out 4 desserts with the birthday candle on it on the house. The restaurant had a beautiful seating viewing the lake across from the hotel. The salmon tartare, steak tartare, soup of the day, salad, cod and fries were all good. We requested all the foods comes out together at once so we can share it. Everything was good except the skirt steak wasn't good. The meat was chewy and dry. Since this is Quebec so everyone here speak French so it will be better if you can speak and read French.

Robyn D.

Yelp
The ambiance was spectacular with a view of the river from our table. Our server was attentive without being overbearing and offered excellent recommendations. A surprise hit was the truffle popcorn appetizer. I would've never thought to order it but we couldn't stop eating it. Highly recommend this restaurant for a special night out!
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Michael F.

Yelp
The restaurant was located inside the Chateau Frontenac where my wife and I were staying as guests. We had reservations on Saturday evening at 7:15 pm but were not seated until 7:30 due to how busy it was. No worries. We scored a four seat circular booth which was cozy. A very trendy vibe. There was part of the dining room that overlooks the St. Lawrence River. We didn't score a table there. My wife and I told our waitress about our dairy allergy and for the rest of the evening made sure we were free from any concerns or issues. After we ordered our meal, a complimentary basket of bread and butter was provided. We began our meal with the Boston salad and the waitress switched us from the Waldorf dressing to a very tasty balsamic vinaigrette. Excellent salad with pecans, granny smith apples, and grapes. Very generous portion. I ordered the hangar steak cooked medium and it came with French fries. My wife ordered the roasted cod fish with vegetables and was switched to roasted potatoes instead of the creamy spinach. The steak came out cooked to perfection. A smaller portion. The French fries were tasty and did not need any additional seasoning. Not greasy. My loved her cod. Served hot and fresh. No room for dessert. The service and attentiveness of the entire wait staff was outstanding. The prices were acceptable considering you were inside the Chateau Frontenac. An excellent experience!
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Zhang C.

Yelp
Great atmosphere and wonderful window seating with overview of the river. Just a reminder, if you want a window seating then you have to make an early reservation. We didn't and they wouldn't let us sit by the window. The entree portion of each dish was more than enough for one person. We didn't expect that and we over order and got way too full. Overall, the plating, design and the flavor of the food, was good.

Vmchb5 C.

Yelp
they makes us wait 20 minutes even we had a reservation al 9:15 and the host was very rude even that we were staying at hotel
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Tu-Quyen P.

Yelp
Beautiful tourist spot with amazing views, great food and super friendly service from the bar to the host to the servers. Awesome space and so many delicious items on the menu. Highly recommend the bbq duck legs and root vegetable fries on small bites menu, and Black Forest cake! The French onion soup is also a winner.

Deborah E.

Yelp
Great food. Menu had something for everyone including our vegetarian. We went with kids who were well accommodated. Pricy but good value. We were served quickly but didn't feel rushed. The service was great. Beautiful spot in a beautiful hotel. Kind and courteous even though we barely spoke French. Accommodated us with English menus and great friendly service. Food was really good and abundant. Even took some home with us.
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Valerie A.

Yelp
Good food, in an upscale atmosphere, and beautiful river views! Check out the menu beforehand to make sure you are aware of the choices as they are limited. French Onion Soup 10/10. It was honestly the best I've ever tasted! Hamburger and fries 10/10. Meal was served extremely hot. French fries were incredible, and the brioche bun was so fresh it practically melted in my mouth. If you're in town, this would be a great lunch spot!
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C L.

Yelp
When in old Quebec, one of the must visits is the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac. Next time you're there, consider going to Le Sam to enjoy the food while sitting by the window to an amazing view of St. Lawrence River. We ordered an appetizer board and the ahi tuna, beef tartare and crab cake were all excellent (beef tartare was just slightly better). The pulled beef cheek in the poutine was super tender too. But my favourite was the duck drumsticks, slightly crispy with the meat still moist, I personally think this is one of the best value dish too and highly recommend it!
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Minelie A.

Yelp
10 stars!!!!! When quality talks!!!! It's worth to wait time! Absolutely reserve this place before you go. We stayed in the chateau and definitely I recommend it if you stay here or not just try this beautiful restaurant with breathtaking food, great customer service and great food!

Abigail L.

Yelp
We stopped by for a quick evening bite as we weren't very hungry. At first glance Bistro le Sam looks inviting- the atmosphere is chic and chill. However after we were seated, we realized we should have gone somewhere else. As the night went on, the service continued to get worse. We ordered a salad and a few drinks and with all of the waiting were in the restaurant for over two hours. The salad was overdressed with extremely sweet dressing, and the chicken atop was dry. Where we were seated was near the kitchen which was very loud, and there were lights glaring in at our table from the entry way. I normally have a pretty high tolerance for mediocre service, but considering this restaurant is part of the Fairmont, you could say we had higher expectations. Not a horrible experience, but wouldn't recommend.
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Mary D.

Yelp
We had reservations for 5:15 on a Thursday and were politely told we had to be finished by 7:30 for another party. Maybe it was because we were not as well dressed as other patrons, or had our backpacks with us from walking around the city all day, or because we are from south of the (Canadian) border, but our reception seemed to be slightly chillier than the two walk-in parties in front of us. The service was decent, the food fantastic. The server did work to upsell us on our drinks, which is clearly where they make most of their money. They were great, but for $20 each, I expected to be blown away. Mine came in a clunky metal container in the shape of an owl that was difficult to lift off the table due to the condensation creating a seal with the table. But it was tasty. The bread and butter was brought to the table after our appetizer, but was really delicious. And the appetizer board, shared among 4 of us, included a melange of flavors: steak tartar, crab cake (the highlight), a small but tasty salad with black garlic mayonnaise, a giant shrimp, some toasted French bread rounds, and a mushroom sauce. We all ordered different entrees: flank steak (with gravy, an odd choice), vegetarian ravioli with wild mushrooms, Guinea fowl with the same ravioli, and seafood casserole (the best meal of the four, in our opinion). The flavors were wonderful. But... for the price we expected a little bit more. Or maybe less. A little less salt, a little less oil/butter, and no grit in the truffles (which I left for my last few bites, since it was expected to be such a treat, but instead I had to contend with crunchy sand in my teeth, which was a disappointment). I know we paid for the location overlooking the St Lawrence River, and in the famous and opulent Château de Frontenac, and bragging rights, but next time we are in Quebec we will choose to spend our time and money in less fancy places.
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Edward M.

Yelp
I knew I was in trouble when they brought out my lamb, told me to enjoy my veal, and the dish I was served resembled neither lamb nor veal. The taste was even worse than the confusion and I was unable to finish it. My french onion soup appetizer was also overcooked and practically inedible. My girlfriend's food was no better. The service was slow and rude. Our hostess greeted us like we had tracked in manure. The view was nice but there are better restaurants in the city with similar views. Cheers, Edward
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Katherine G.

Yelp
Dinner here was sad because the food was really good, but the service was embarrassing and disappointing. Had a reservation for 9:00pm and were able to sit at 8:30pm. The chairs were so low that it felt like our chins were level with the table. Fortunately, the hostess was able to switch our chairs to ones that were higher and more appropriate for the table height. However, we only got our entrees at around 10:10pm (1.5 hours since we sat) after speaking with the manager and letting him know our frustrations with the wait time. But, we got a 20% discount off our bill due to the wait time. It's sad that such good food couldn't even be enjoyed properly after such an absurd wait time. Pass on this place unless you're ready to wait 50+ minutes in between dishes. Other places in Quebec City have much better service with equally delicious food.
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Nina Z.

Yelp
My folks and I are typical tourists and decided to dine here because: 1) It's in the famous Fairmont Le Chateau 2) It's got a lovely view of The Promenade and the St. Laurent's River. The wait staff are professional and really set the bar to how service should be. Needless to say, service was excellent. We had the crab cake, the lobster roll, and the St. Lawrence Seafood Stuffed Baked Shell. Everything was delicious and beautifully presented. The St. Lawrence Seafood Stuffed Baked Shell (that's a mouthful), was my favorite - an umami explosion made up of lobster, crab ,scallop, cod, mashed potatoes, and cream. Reminded me of a seafood version of Shepherd's pie in a souffle form. Excellent view, service, and food. A true fine dining experience.