In my last edition of Petit World, many of you guessed correctly that I’m visiting Québec City, one of oldest and most picturesque settlements in North America. It’s certainly one of the most beautiful and historic cities I’ve ever visited.
Wandering the streets of Vieux-Québec (Old City) is like exploring a provincial capital in Europe—a pleasurable experience that I can only describe as having an old world European feel. Narrow cobblestone streets, 17th and 18th century churches and houses, and the magnificent Château Frontenac (the visual heart of the city) soaring above it all. Every turn of a street corner is like a voyage of discovery through the rich history of an extraordinary city. It’s no wonder why Charles Dickens described the city as having “splendid views at every turn.”
There’s so much about the city that I’d like to share with you, but before I delve into Québec’s more popular monuments and old buildings, I want to tell you about one of its perhaps lesser known jewels, an épicerie (grocery store) dating back to 1871.
Épicerie J.A. Moisan is said to be the oldest grocery store in North America. Recalling the old general store feel, tin ceilings, charming wood décor, antiques scattered about, and traditional music from the 1920’s and 1930’s add to its warm atmosphere. One step inside takes you on a nostalgic trip back in time.
I was so impressed with its expansive selection—fresh fruits and vegetables; international fine foods; and cheeses and preserves made in Québec. Épicerie J.A. Moisan is truly one-of-a-kind. I went in just to have a peek and an hour and twenty minutes later…ahem…I walked out with a few bags.
Located on rue St. Jean, just four blocks outside the Old City walls, this épicerie is a true food emporium and special place to visit. They also have a little café to grab a bite to eat.
Stay tuned. More on Rue St. Jean and the beauties of Québec City to come!
PETIT WORLD CITIZEN 
beautiful!
Thanks Lucia. I’m glad you enjoyed this.
Fantastic! I was just in Montreal and loved it there. Quebec City is on the list! Thanks for stopping by No Thyme To Waste today, really appreciate it!
Lovely post!
Thanks Ashley! Montreal is very nice too. Glad Quebec City is on your list. It’s so lovely. Good luck with the photography! I was happy to have the time to stop by.
Thanks Martine! Enjoying your posts 🙂 Have a great afternoon!
I love knowing that that Old World charm and beauty is available just north of us. Your pictures are poetry! Are the residents welcoming–especially to Americans who don’t speak French?
Hi Josephine, it’s amazing such a old warm charm is so close! I can’t believe I never noticed such beauty until recently. The residents, Québécois (or Quebeckers), are extremely friendly, gracious and welcoming to everyone, French speaking or not. I’ll try to write a general post about travel to Quebec with helpful travel tips. Any other questions or concerns I could address? So glad you’re enjoying the photos! Thank you!
Thank you, Martine! An excellent review of Quebec City. I was there just a few months ago. I was not able to see everything, and now I feel as if I have seen them all. 🙂
How was the weather for you? Did you stay in the Old City? So glad I could share a little more and still make it interesting for someone who has already been to Quebec. 🙂 I’d still like to share a few more places I visited in the city–the Château, for example!