Destination: Quebec City

Quebec City was founded more than 400 years ago by French fur traders on the banks of the St. Lawrence River founded and later run by the British. In 1985, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking the cobblestone streets is like reading a Charles Dickens novel brought to life. But culinary travelers will find more than sightseeing here: 'food, wonderful food' – and wine – can be found in every corner of this Canadian gem.

Accommodation: if the revered landmark The Chateau Frontenac on Rue Saint-Louis is booked, head around the corner inside the walled city to the Art Deco Manoir Victoria . Smoke-free four-star hotel offers 156 rooms and suites, hotel spa, complimentary use of indoor pool and fitness center, and upscale dining in French continental restaurant, lounge and parking garage.

Around town: Rue Saint-Jean in Old Quebec is a good starting point for a foodie tour, and costumed street performers playing banjos, juggling balls or playing crystal glasses for tips add to the ambiance. Once a working-class neighborhood, the area is now full of fun stores, stops and cafes. The street is home to J. A. Moisan , reputedly the oldest continuously operating epicerie or market in North America. A Frenchman opened the import and antique shop 140 years ago. Buy fresh bread, regional cheese and pates for a picnic here. Old Port Market is another viable option. Just a few doors down, enter the cottage with the green and white striped awning to visit the Chocolate Museum Where spicy hot chocolate, artfully crafted handmade truffles and historical artifacts help document the indulgence that everyone loves. Occasionally, chocolatier Eric Normand offers wine pairings.

Wine & Food: Be sure to try a Canadian staple – poutine (French fries and cheese curds covered in gravy) – at restaurants serving regional dishes. One to try: the popular An ex-Canadian , located in one of Upper Town's oldest houses, circa 1675. Follow Grande Allee Street for upscale regional dishes (duck confit, venison and smoked salmon) at The Parliament , a gourmet restaurant in the Beaux Arts Parliament Building.

If you want to enjoy the sunset and an extensive wine list, take the elevator to 29. Floor of Loews Hôtel Le Concorde The Astral . The revolving restaurant's menu changes seasonally, offers American classics for picky eaters and the wine list offers more than 100 choices. Try the Minervois red called L'Opera de Chateau Villerambert Julien.

While Cafe Saint Malo (75, Rue Saint-Paul) in Lower Town serves an authentic but affordable French lunch or dinner, a short walk will take you to the popular Elan at Auberge Saint-Antoin. Menu items include modern regional flavors such as caviar, rabbit and ice cider made from apples, as well as Quebecois cheese and a signature seven-course meal (with wine pairings) that can include foie gras, halibut with maple glaze and homemade sorbet .

Return to the Grande Allee to enjoy the nightlife. Here you'll find a number of sidewalk cafes and wine bars, including the trendy Savini Resto-Bar . Try something more casual, but with an adventurous wine list (selections from Canada, France, Australia, South Africa, California and beyond) The Monk Cupbearer , just outside the gateway to Old Town. Make reservations for the opportunity to eat and drink in oak barrels.

Before you leave, visit Le Chateau Frontenac, Old Town's most visible landmark near Dufferin Terrace, for seared scallops. Chef Jean Soulard's recipe, which he is happy to share, uses honey from the hotel's rooftop garden. The result is a soft but crunchy log that you'll remember long after you return home.