Originally Posted by bgmvp
Thanks everyone for your thoughts so far.
as cyberdad put it...
good food, comfortable atmosphere, and somehwat moderate prices...
...which I would consider to be $30 US for two without alcohol.
Am I correct in assuming that we will find fixed price plat du jour at many restaurants?
There is something called "Table d'hotes", which is often fixed price but also fixed menu. It typically comes in three price ranges, and you can certainly find something in the price range you're looking for.
I don't really know where you are planning to go. There are (there were, I should say) numerous good spots on Grande Allee, outside the walls, between the provincial legislature building and the Concorde hotel.
My family and my in-laws still live in the 'burbs, but I go only once every third year or so and I'm rarely allowed to escape my mother's cuisine. Still, I find that restaurants inside the walls typically not so interesting as those on Grande-Allee. Grande-Allee is much more european in style with tables on patios, a very relaxed atmosphere and serious babewatching. Of course, the assumption here is that you are going on a beautiful summer day. Grande Allee is also right by the Plains of Abraham National Park.
The Pub St-Alexandre is ok, but go there for the beer, not for the food.
When I lived there, there was a micro brewery called L'INOX, I believe on St-Paul Street near the old Port. It had quite an atmosphere and the selection of local brews was very nice, plus the food was quite decent. I have not been there since summer 2000, and things change...
I like the old city best for the cafes, like "Chez Temporel" on rue Couillard. In my days, it was fantastic for desserts (chocolate cake, in particular), and it remains a must whenever I go back.
Some restaurants allow you to "bring-your-own-wine". You basically buy you bottle at the SAQ and they will uncork it for you, usually at no charge. Considering the price of wine in restaurants, it's sweet deal. I know there are some such restaurants in the suburbs, but I don't know if there are some in the more touristy places. Anyways, it's worth asking.
BTW, I know it's stuffy, but the Sunday brunch at Chateau Frontenac is quite fantastic. It's expensive, but quite a show to see the waiters in period costumes. Plus, the view is absolutely unbeatable. If you want to try this, you will need to make reservations.