Apotek: a journey to Denmark on Saint-Paul Street

If you’ve visited the beautiful city of Quebec in recent years, you’ve surely heard of Café Olive—one of the capital’s best cafés. But did you know that the same team opened Apotek less than a year ago, on rue Saint-Paul?

More than just a café, Apotek is first and foremost a bakery and pastry shop, with most of its creations inspired by Danish traditions. The team even traveled together to Denmark to perfect their craft. For owner Sami and his crew, offering high-quality products was essential. “In Montreal, you can find a great bakery or pastry shop on almost every corner. In Quebec City, it’s rarer,” he explains. Apotek fills that gap beautifully—much to the delight of locals and visitors alike.

Morning Delights

In the morning, people come to Apotek for a simple yet irresistible classic: the cheese and butter sandwich. Served on their homemade sourdough bread, it’s layered with Louis D’Or cheese and honey-whipped butter, and optionally topped with prosciutto and arugula. The traditional Danish breakfast—soft-boiled egg, sourdough bread, jam, and cheese—is another satisfying favorite.

Sweet Perfection

The true stars at Apotek, however, are the sweet treats. The seasonal brioche we tasted was absolutely stunning—filled with strawberry jam and a luscious cream, it’s a burst of flavor in every bite. Other standouts include the airy, aromatic cardamom bun and a perfect Basque cheesecake. Depending on the team’s inspiration, you might also find irresistible canelés or a flawless Paris-Brest on the counter.

Thoughtful Drinks

The same care goes into the drinks. Every cup is crafted with precision and finesse, with a menu that changes with the seasons. This summer, offerings included espresso tonic, espresso limo, matcha limo, Japanese brew, cold brew, and iced classics like lattes and chai. The coffee beans—sourced from the renowned Danish roaster La Cabra—add another layer of authenticity and excellence to a visit at Apotek.

Scandinavian Serenity

Step inside and you’ll be greeted by a stunning minimalist space—refined, airy, and unmistakably Scandinavian. The atmosphere is serene, enhanced by the gentle sounds of Patrick Watson or Ludovico Einaudi playing softly in the background. It’s the kind of place that invites you to pause, breathe, and simply be.

In less than a year, Apotek has become a must-visit destination in Quebec City—a little slice of Denmark in the heart of Old Quebec. We can’t wait to go back!

Written by Jean-Philippe Tastet
Photography by Alison Slattery

Last update: October 06, 2025

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