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35 Best Restaurants in Ottawa Ontario From a Local (2023)
Looking for the best restaurants in Ottawa Ontario?
Ottawa is full of great places to eat, and in this guide, I’ll share some of my favourites with you.
I’ve got everything from casual places to grab a quick bite, to fine dining experiences that will leave you feeling truly spoiled. And of course, I’ll tell you where to find the best Ottawa poutine!
So whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out, or just somewhere to grab a burger with your buddies, you’ll find it here.
In fact, I’ve even gone so far as to find the best gluten free pad thai for my fellow celiacs!
So without further ado, let’s dive in and chow down on the best restaurants in Ottawa Ontario!
35 Best Restaurants in Ottawa, Ontario
1. The Green Door
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy meal, look no further than The Green Door. This vegetarian-friendly restaurant has something for everyone, with vegan and gluten-free options available.
And the best part? All of their ingredients are locally sourced! So you can feel good about supporting local businesses while you enjoy a fantastic meal.
Make sure to try their amazing gluten free cookies – they’re seriously addicting.
Just be warned that parking can be an issue in this busy downtown area.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
Head to The Green Door if you’ve got any dietary requirements.
I’m celiac, prefer to eat dairy free, and I love veggies.
One of my best friends is vegetarian.
When we come to The Green Door, I always know we’ll leave full, happy, and with un-rumbly tummies. Unlike some places where you can only get a side salad and then have to make a baked potato at home after.
What to Order
Their menu changes regularly, but honestly their gluten free desserts are my kyrptonite.
I always come back for the cookies!
Their variations on lasagna – whether tofu or with zucchini – are always delicious!
Best For: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free meals
Price: $$
Location: 198 Main Street
2. Level One The Loft
Level One is easily one of the best places to go in Ottawa.
It’s actually a gaming cafe – complete with a floor of video games and a second floor of board games.
I’m obsessed with bringing people here, but not just for the fun board games or an embarrassing round of Cards Against Humanity that I never win.
It’s actually a great place to come for craft beer and a full meal!
You’ll love getting to play a round of games, sip some local bears, and then dine on surprisingly delicious bar food in this relaxed atmosphere.
It’s perfect for a date!
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
Level One, the Loft, isn’t just good service – it’s also great food!
Unlike some restaurants that are stuffy or you don’t know what to do with your date before the food comes, Level One is a full on experience.
I’ve been here on dates, with family, and with friends. Every single time I’ve had a blast!
If you’re new to Ottawa, you can get to know people at their events. They have trivia nights and gaming events, like Dungeons and Dragons nights.
Note that it’s hard to find parking as it’s in Byward Market. It’s best to take the O Train, the bus, or to walk (it’s very safe, even at night! I’ve done it a million times).
What to Order
The #1 best things to order at Level One are the deep fried mac and cheese balls and the chicken fingers.
Trust me, they’re AMAZING.
The mac and cheese balls are crusted in panko and come with a coconut curry dipping sauce and a homemade ranch sauce that will literally have you drinking out of the containers.
The buttermilk batter on the chicken fingers had my chicken finger connoisseur roommate declaring them the best in the city on the second bite!
Best For: First dates and large groups
Price: $$ (you have to pay an $8 table fee to play the games, otherwise this would be $)
Location: 14 Waller Street
3. Aroma Meze
Aroma Meze is the epitome of casual fine dining.
The food is Michelin quality (I can say that, having dined at Michelin-starred restaurants a few times) but for reasonable prices.
Aroma is a Greek restaurants that specializes in small plates.
I love this because it’s the benefits of a tasting menu without having to sit through a thousand courses of foam.
Their extensive wine list paired with their great food makes it easy to spend hours here.
And they’ll let you! It’s got a very traditional European feel, so don’t expect servers waiting at your elbows to hurry you through your meal. Take your time and enjoy!
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
Aroma Meze is a great spot for vegetarians and meat lovers alike!
It’s always a special night when I get to come to this small, unassuming restaurant in a townhome in the downtown Ottawa area.
You walk in and are immediately enveloped in the warmth of the place.
For reasonable prices, you get to enjoy a variety of traditional Greek dishes done in a unique way.
I’ve literally never ordered something bad here – even when I decided to experiment with beef, which I don’t usually eat.
This is the perfect place for large groups or dinner with friends, whom you can share the small plates and good wine with for hours.
What to Order
The #1 item on the menu is the beetroot tower. It doesn’t sound super fancy, with beetroot slices and garlic yoghurt, but the chef does magical things to it.
I’ve never been able to recreate the perfect blend of sweet, crunchy, and silky yoghurt.
I also love the flambed Saganaki cheese and the madjool dates stuffed with gorgonzola and foie gras (it’s rich enough to be dessert!).
Best For: Large groups and friends
Price: $$ (add a $ if you get wine)
Location: 239 Nepean Street
4. Edgar
If you’re looking for a great brunch place in Ottawa, Edgar is your spot!
They have a small menu but everything on it is AMAZING.
I’m talking about the best scones I’ve ever had outside of England good.
The service is wonderful and they even have a few tables outside for when the weather is nice.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
Edgar is the perfect place for a leisurely brunch with friends.
The menu is small but the food was AMAZING! Hands down one of the best brunches we have had.
Between the great service and the delicious food, it’s easy to spend a few hours here catching up with friends.
Do note that there are really only tables for two. Since there is usually a line up for seats, don’t expect large parties to be able to sit together (4 to a table is the max typically).
What to Order
The dutch baby is my sister’s favourite dish on the menu. It’s a giant pancake that comes with fresh berries and whipped cream.
My dad loves the pork shnitzel. It’s a huge portion but so good that he always ends up finishing it!
The only gluten free option is the Mexican breakfast, so keep that in my celiacs!
Best For: 2 people, friends
Price: $$
Location: 60 Rue Begin, Gatineau
5. Whalesbone Oyster House
If you love seafood, you MUST go to Whalesbone for dinner while you’re in Ottawa.
This is the first restaurant I took my mom to in Ottawa, and I’ve been a dedicated addict at their raw bar ever since!
In fact, if pressed, I’d probably choose Whalesbone as my favourite restaurant in Ottawa.
It’s perfect for a special night or a catch up with friends after work, while you’re still a little dressed up.
You can enjoy a charcuterie board, fresh oysters, or even a cold seafood tower as you make your way through the wine bar selection.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
The friendly staff and the delicious food make this a no brainer!
Whalesbone is a beautiful restaurant with a tiny spot for eating outdoors in the summer at the back.
I always have an amazing experience trying new things on their menu. Their great service is just the cherry on top!
What to Order
Get the oysters, if you get nothing else!
The tuna crudo is to die for!
I even love the carpaccio and I’m not a big fan of red meat.
This is a seafood place, so the steak is just so-so.
But the truffle fries are a must, especially to share with the table.
Best For: Happy hour, after work with friends
Price: $$$
Location: 231 Elgin Street
6. Chesterfield’s Gastro Diner
I’ve lined up at 7am on a Saturday after a spout of insomnia just to get their eggs benedict.
That’s really the only review you need of this hidden gem for brunch in Ottawa.
Chesterfield’s is named for the Canadian slang for a couch – they even have two outside where you can eat in the summer!
Like Edgar, there aren’t many tables (even fewer with social distancing guidelines). So you’ll need to line up before the 9am opening time (most people arrive at 8am with a coffee from down the street and chat with friends).
They even do limited takeaway that you can get to eat in your hotel if you’re visiting.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
The great atmosphere of this cozy restaurant is so easy to enjoy.
I love their specials every weekend – like one with hashbrowns under eggs benedict with a slightly spicy sauce that they called the “birds nest”.
But their staples are equally amazing.
This is a place for hearty meals, so be prepared to be FULL afterwards.
What to Order
When you order anything, you get two sides. They’re often the size of a full meal, so I usually get the poutine to take home for dinner (cause you really won’t be hungry again until then).
The eggs benedict are my go to, but I’ve rarely been able to turn down something on their specials board. So I usually take my sister who is always down to go halfsies on two items so I can get both!
Best For: Brunch
Price: $$
Location: 1433 Wellington Street
7. The Wellington Diner
The Wellington Diner is my go to in recent years for the best sandwiches in Ottawa.
They even do them on gluten free bread!
This classic diner serves up a variety of dishes, like pulled pork and classic nachos, alongside a variety of club sandwiches that will make your mouth water!
I also love stopping by for brunch. It’s very close to Chesterfield’s, so if I’m too late for that, I’ll head over here for yummy eggs benedict. My roommate always tags along for pancakes smothered in maple syrup.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
The Wellington Diner is my favourite because it’s so unpretentious.
You can come as you are and enjoy a great meal without having to spend a lot of money.
The portions are also huge, which is perfect for me because I’m always starving!
What to Order
The California Chicken Club is my favourite, on gluten free bread with a side of caesar or garden salad.
My roommate always gets the pulled pork – which looks and smells SO good. They have the best fries too!
Best For: Comfort food, casual dining
Price: $$
Location: 1385 Wellington Street
8. Dumpling Bowl
Dumplings were always my go-to before I got diagnosed as celiac.
This hidden gem is so unassuming from the outside, that I’ve only ever seen one other person in the store.
But this is the only place I go to when I want fried dumplings in Ottawa.
You’ll get a TON of dumplings for a low price. It’s the perfect spot to hit in winter.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
This was actually the first restaurant I went to when I moved to Ottawa. Ever since, it’s held a special place in my heart.
But more so, it holds a special place in my stomach because YUM!
This is the #1 place in Ottawa for fried dumplings that are the perfect blend of warm, slightly drippy, and a little crispy on the edges.
What to Order
I always go with other people so I can get a variety. But the chicken and mushroom dumplings are my favourite, especially paired with one of their bubble teas.
Best For: Take home, winter food
Price: $
Location: 730 Somerset Street West
9. Sidedoor
I actually have to credit this amazing restaurant in Ottawa find to my sister.
When she came to visit from Toronto, she took me to this gorgeous restaurant with great ambiance and a modern menu of fusion foods that have had me back time and time again.
It also has good drinks that will ensure you can get through any meal with your aunt questioning why you still aren’t married in your late twenties.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
Sidedoor has an unassuming entrance, but when you get inside, you’ll be blown away by the gorgeous interior.
The high ceilings and glass wall make it incredibly open and inviting. But the large plants make it feel homey and cozy at the same time.
I love the unique flavor of their Asian and Mexican fusion dishes.
What to Order
The crispy fish taco or the black cod in miso are my two go-tos.
Don’t miss out on their donuts! They’re massive and delicious, so you’ll only want to get one order to share.
Best For: Friends, Drinks, Asian/Mexico fusion
Price: $$$
Location: 18b York Street
10. NeXT
NeXT is the best restaurant in Stittsville, a suburb of Ottawa, for fine dining.
The staff are incredibly friendly and welcoming, and the ambiance is perfect for a date night or special occasion.
I ordered the chicken which was very flavourful and enough for two people to share. The only downside is that it can be a bit loud.
They offer a tasting menu, which was a selection of nine sharing plates from the main menu. You can also choose the accompanying wine flights.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
I love NeXT because it’s a bit chiller than the fancy restaurants in downtown Ottawa. It’s not as pretenious and doesn’t require reservations a million years in advance.
The food is absolutely amazing, and the staff are so friendly and accommodating.
What to Order
I love the chicken dish personally and anything with squid. But the tasting menu is great for special occasions.
Best For: Fine dining
Price: $$$$
Location: 6400 Hazeldean Road
11. Union 613
Union 613 is one of the best restaurants in Ottawa for Southern food.
The restaurant offers shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and side ribs, as well as a stellar cocktail, craft beer, and wine list.
I love the atmosphere of Union 613 – it’s casual yet upscale, and the perfect place to go for a night out with friends.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
I love Union 613 because it’s a great mix of casual and upscale. The food is amazing, and the cocktail list is incredible.
The atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends, and the staff are always so friendly and accommodating.
What to Order
Fried chicken all day every day!
Best For: Hang with friends, casual fine dining
Price: $$
Location: 315 Somerset St W
12. The Shore Club
The Shore Club is one of the best Ottawa restaurants for a good meal while exploring the city’s attractions.
The menu features fresh oysters, salmon tartare, and a Nicoise salad, as well as a wide selection of wine and cocktails.
The ambiance is perfect for a romantic dinner or date night, and excellent service will ensure you’re not getting hangry before the night even begins.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
The Shore Club is the perfect place for a romantic dinner or date night. The menu features fresh, local ingredients, and the service is impeccable.
It’s right by Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River, so it’s very easy to get to.
What to Order
I love the salmon tartare and the Nicoise salad. The rib steak is also a great choice for sharing.
Best For: Romantic meal, Special night out
Price: $$$$
Location: 11 Colonel By Drive
13. Beckta Dining & Wine
Beckta Dining & Wine is one of the best Ottawa restaurants for local cuisine in a fine dining format.
The duck breast was outstanding, and the local ingredients are always fresh and flavourful.
Cocktail lovers will be in heaven with the rotating cocktail menu, and the wine list is impressive as well.
If you’re attending any events at the National Arts Centre, make sure to make a reservation here so you can dine before going to your show.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
I love Beckta Dining & Wine because it’s the perfect place for a special night out. The food is amazing, and the cocktails are even better.
It’s also conveniently located near the National Arts Centre and other downtown Ottawa attractions, so it’s very easy to get to if you’re staying in Downtown Ottawa.
What to Order
The food rotates so I always recommend asking your server for recommendations. I typically ask what has local produce and then go with that, or with the scallops!
Best For: Fine dining, Romantic Meal
Price: $$$
Location: 150 Elgin Street
14. El Camino
Are you looking for authentic Meixcan food?
Look no further than El Camino.The restaurant has a full raw bar with Mexican-style cocktails, and the tacos are some of the best in Ottawa.
If you’re looking for a night out with friends, this is the perfect place to go. The atmosphere is lively and fun, and the staff are always so accommodating.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
I love El Camino because it’s one of the only places in Ottawa where you can get authentic Mexican food. The tacos are amazing, and the cocktails are even better.
It’s also a great place to go for a night out with your friends. The atmosphere is always lively and fun, and the staff are always so accommodating.
What to Order
Get a tequila sour cocktail, some guac and chips for the table, and an assortment of tacos. You’ll thank me!
This is my Canada Day go-to spot. I always get the crispy fish tacos and the japanese eggplant taco.
Best For: Tacos, Cocktails
Price: $$
Location: 380 Elgin Street
15. Les Fougeres
You’ll need a car to get to this Ottawa restaurant, but it’s worth the drive.
Les Fougeres is an excellent fine dining restaurant with amazing food, service, and an intimate location.
The hearth oven pizza is my favourite dish, but the confit of duck is also outstanding.
The menu features both English and French dishes, so there’s something for everyone.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
I love Les Fougeres because it’s a great fine dining restaurant that’s off the beaten path. The food is amazing, and the service is always impeccable.
The menu features both English and French dishes, so there’s something for everyone.
Pack some nice clothes and this pairs perfectly with a day hiking in Gatineau Park (they don’t mind if you’re a little sweaty!). Or treat yourself after a day soaking at the Nordic Spa.
What to Order
The hearth oven pizza and a cocktail is the way to go!
I’m not a massive fan of meat, but I’ve been told their meat dishes are also delicious.
Best For: Fine dining
Price: $$$
Location: 783 Route 105, Chelsea
16. Courtyard Restaurant
If you’re looking for a great restaurant with a beautiful courtyard, look no further than the Courtyard Restaurant.
The Courtyard is a common place for weddings, and it’s easy to see why. It has a great atmosphere, and the older building is very charming.
The gnocchi is delicious, and the Courtyard Restaurant is a great choice for a romantic dinner.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
I love the Courtyard Restaurant because it’s a great place for a special occasion. The food is amazing, and the courtyard is beautiful. It’s also conveniently located near many of Ottawa’s best attractions and hotels.
What to Order
The chicken supreme or the gnocchi.
Best For: Special events
Price: $$$
Location: 21 George Street
17. Sansotei Ramen
This ramen chain restaurant is always my go-to when I’m in the mood for some delicious ramen.
The restaurant is very casual, and the service is always quick. You can get your food to go, or eat in at one of the few tables.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
Fast food that isn’t terrible for you. Great place to get something warm after skating the Rideau Canal!
What to Order
I always get the tonkotsu ramen with extra pork belly.
Best For: Ramen
Price: $
Location: 153 Bank Street
18. Koreana
The first time I ever had Korean food was at Koreana.
I’ve eaten a lot since, but the Korean friend that recommended this BBQ joint wasn’t wrong! This is the best place for Korean bbq in all of Ottawa.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
I love the family style vibe of this restaurant and the all-you-can eat aspect. It’s a perfect place for students (or budget travelers) to go to enjoy some delicious food.
What to Order
I get the all you can eat meal and get one of everything!
Best For: Big groups of friends, Students, Budget Travelers
Price: $
Location: 711 Somerset St W
19. Pelican Seafood Market and Grill
If you’re looking for fresh seafood, look no further than Pelican Seafood Market and Grill.
Pelican has a great casual atmosphere, and the lobster roll is my favourite item on the menu.
The bistro also has a fresh fish market attached, so you can take home some of their delicious seafood to cook yourself.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
I love Pelican Seafood Market and Grill because it’s a great casual seafood restaurant with a fresh fish market attached. The service is always great.
What to Order
It’s hard to choose, but my favourites are probably the lobster roll and the clam chowder.
Best For: Seafood
Price: $$$
Location: 1500 Bank Street
20. Supply and Demand
If you’re looking for a delicious seafood meal, look no further than Supply and Demand.
The tuna crudo is my favourite dish on the menu, but everything is amazing. It’s worth the trek to the west end of Ottawa!
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
If you’re looking for raw oysters, great atmosphere, and an amazing seafood menu, then this is the spot for you!
What to Order
I always get some PEI oysters, and usually folllow them up with the tuna crudo and a salad.
Best For: Seafood
Price: $$$
Location: 1335 Wellington Street West
21. Gezellig
Gezellig is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
The decor is beautiful, and the food is even better.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
Not only is this an amazing fine dining restaurant, but they’re also very accommodating of allergies and intolerances.
I love the service here and the atmosphere. It’s a good place for any time of year!
What to Order
I had the beef tartare which was melt in your mouth good with just the right touch of garlic and capers.
I love the risottos (especially the mushroom and truffles one)!
Best For: Fine dining
Price: $$$
Location: 337 Richmond Road
22. Riviera Ottawa
Riviera Ottawa is one of the best restaurants in Canada, and it’s right here in Ottawa!
The interior is gorgeous, and the food is even better.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
This is a great place for a special occasion. The food is amazing, and the service is wonderful.
You’ll love the cozy interior as you listen to live music and savour your meal.
What to Order
I had the wedge salad, which was delicious, and the halibut, which was cooked perfectly.
Best For: Romantic meals
Price: $$$
Location: 62 Sparks Street
23. Social Thai
You may be surprised if you’re from Ottawa to see a local business like Social Thai on this menu.
It’s technically “fast food” or take away food, but it’s one of my favourite restaurants in Ottawa Ontario, so I had to include it.
Social Thai is the only place I’ve found that does gluten free pad thai!
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
Social Thai is a very cute, little restaurant that mostly does take out. You can eat there, especially in the summer it’s nice to do so on their picnic tables.
But I usually pick it up while walking my dog, then head home and get ready for a Netflix binge!
What to Order
The gluten free pad thai is excellent!
And I’m a sucker for mango salad and spring rolls with rice paper.
Best For: Thai food, Take away
Price: $
Location: 399 Bank Street
24. La Terrasse Fairmont Chateau Laurier
La Terrasse is one of the best patios in Ottawa, and it’s located right on Parliament Hill.
You can enjoy amazing views of the city while sipping on a delicious cocktail.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
This is a great place to people watch and enjoy the beautiful architecture of the Chateau Laurier.
The service is wonderful, and the drinks are even better.
I love Zoe’s for afternoon tea, but this might almost have it beat when you get to watch the sunset over the Ottawa river.
What to Order
I love the classic mojito, but they have a great selection of cocktails, wines, and beers.
The menu has something for everyone, and it’s all reasonably priced considering how tourity the area is.
Best For: Views, Drinks
Price: $$$
Location: 1 Rideau Street
25. The Soca Kitchen
The Soca Kitchen is a great spot for fresh Spanish food in Ottawa.
They have a wide variety of small plates that are perfect for sharing, as well as some amazing entrees.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
This is a great place to go with a group of friends. You can order a bunch of different dishes and share them all.
I also love that they have a great selection of Spanish wines.
What to Order
I always start with the ceviche, and then I move on to the tacos.
The tres leches cake is amazing for dessert!
Best For: Small plates
Price: $$
Location: 224 Beachwood Avenue
26. Mill Street Brewpub
I first went to Mill Street for the dog friendly patio in the summer, but quickly learned that the selection of dishes to choose from was just as exciting!
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
Come first for the gorgeous location along the Ottawa River (and bring your dog!). Then stay for the beer and the amazing burgers!
What to Order
I’m all about the burgers at Mill Street.
Best For: Patio
Price: $$
Location: 555 Wellington Street
27. The Savoy Brasserie
The Savoy Brasserie is a great spot for jazz music and eggs benedict in Ottawa.
They also have a delicious selection of sandwiches if you’re looking for something more lunch-y.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
This is a great place to go for brunch on the weekends. They have a great atmosphere, and it’s always packed with people enjoying the music.
What to Order
I love the eggs benedict, but the sandwiches are also amazing.
Best For: Brunch, French food
Price: $$
Location: 334 Richmond Road
28. Wilf and Ada’s
Wilf and Ada’s is a classic breakfast diner.
There’s really nothing to not enjoy!
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
If you’re looking for a delicious brunch, head here!
What to Order
They’re best known for their dagwood triple decker sandwich, but I tend to stick to the blackstone benny with smoked bacon or a classic three egg breakfast.
Best For: Diner, Brunch
Price: $
Location: 510 Bank Street
29. Orchid Sushi
I’ve eaten A LOT of sushi, so when I moved to Ottawa I needed to get to know ASAP.
I love Orchid sushi – it was right beside my old apartment.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
The small restaurant is super cute to enjoy on first dates or 1:1 meals with friends.
Service is a bit slow, but I don’t care when my mouth is full of delicious fresh fish!
Most people, even in Ottawa, don’t know about this amazing hidden gem.
What to Order
Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong here. I always get the fresh sushi and a spicy salmon roll!
Best For: Sushi
Price: $$
Location: 445 Laurier Ave W
30. Kettleman’s Bagels
Ok, this isn’t technically a restaurant, but they have a dine in section so it counts!
Kettleman’s is the BEST place to get Montreal style bagels in Ottawa.
Everyone I know goes here weekly to get fresh bagels and great sandwiches.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
Great for easy, take away meals that are so delicious. You’ll find them across the city.
What to Order
The turkey sandwich is awesome!
Best For: Bagels, Sandwiches
Price: $
Location: Multiple across the city
31. Hokkaido Sushi
I love sushi, so this list has to have two sushi restaurants in downtown Ottawa on it!
This is my second favourite sushi spot. I love grabbing a sushi combo, then heading to Major Hill Park for lunch in the sun.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
Easy take away sushi right in Byward Market.
What to Order
Spicy salmon roll is my go to!
Best For: Sushi
Price: $$
Location: 272 Dalhousie Street
32. Thali
I had to put this Indian restaurant on the list because it’s in my old neighbourhood and I absolutely love it!
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
What to Order
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
The food is really good and service is good. I love their parathas!
And their curries are so good – especially the one with eggplant.
What to Order
Honestly, any curry is delicious here.
Best For: Thali and Indian food
Price: $$
Location: 136 O’Connor Street
33. Town
This welcoming atmosphere makes me miss living in Italy.
Town is a great spot for classic dishes from Italy (oddly, outside of Little Italy) in Canada’s capital city.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
This casual eatery is perfect for any event. I’d honestly not be surprised to see people fresh from work mixed with people on first dates or even dressed up to go to the symphony!
What to Order
You can’t go wrong with any pasta, but you MUST finish with tiramisu!
Best For: Italian
Price: $$
Location: 296 Elgin Street
34. North and Navy
Northern Italian fare is what you’ll get at this Nepean hot spot.
The cozy interior and the warm food are perfect in the winter.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
I love stopping by when I’ve gone hiking in Barhaven or taken my dog to Conroy Pit to play. It’s a great location that isn’t as full of tourists, and it offers better prices for it.
What to Order
Northern Italian food is different than what you might be used to with Italian restaurants.
You’ll get fresh pasta, but it’s more meat heavy.
The carpaccio is my go to. I ventured towards the short rib ravioli and must say, I’m a convert!
Best For: Northern Italian food
Price: $$
Location: 226 Nepean Street
35. The Great Canadian Poutinerie
I saved the best place to get poutine in Ottawa until last on this list.
I’ve had Smokes. I’ve had all of the poutines made with tater tots (like at Law & Order) and sweet potato fries.
But honestly, this little shop on Bank Street is my #1.
Why This Ottawa Restaurant
Come here for the best poutine in Ottawa!
What to Order
The classic poutine is my favourite. But my roommate always gets the buffalo chicken one with bacon.
Best For: Poutine
Price: $
Location: 311 Bank Street
Best Restaurants in Ottawa Round Ups
Best Affordable Restaurants in Ottawa
- The Great Canadian Poutinerie
- Social Thai
- Kettleman’s Bagels
- Wilf & Ada’s
- Koreana
- Sansotei Ramen
- Dumpling Bowl
Best Restaurants Ottawa Downtown
- Whalesbone
- Thali
- Orchid Sushi
- La Terrasse
- El Camino
- Sidedoor
- Aroma Meze
Best Restaurants in Ottawa with a View
- La Terrassee
- The Courtyard
- Mill Street Brew Pub
Best Ottawa Byward Market Restaurants
- Level One The Loft
- Sidedoor
- Hokkaido Sushi
Map of Best Restaurants in Ottawa, Ontario
Wrap Up: Best Restaurants in Ottawa Ontario
Ottawa is a city with no shortage of amazing restaurants, serving up cuisine from all over the world.
Whether you’re looking for an intimate Italian dining experience or want to sample some poutine, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant Canadian city.
With so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. So it’s best to just close your eyes and pick one!
Honestly, you could spend years just eating your way across Ottawa (… that’s kind of what I do when I go out). So don’t be afraid to dive in, and maybe even try a new cuisine!
FAQs:
What is the famous food in Ottawa?
Poutine is definitely the most famous food in Ottawa! This dish of French fries, cheese curds, and gravy is a must-try when you’re in town.
The second most famous – which isn’t a dish necessarily – are Beavertails. In fact, this canadian classic was invented in Ottawa.
What are the best restaurants in Ottawa for breakfast?
There are tons of great breakfast places in Ottawa! Some of our favourites include The Whalesbone, Wilf & Ada’s, and the Savoy Brasserie.
More things to do in Ottawa
Read More About Ottawa
- Local’s Ottawa Pronunciation Guide: How to Pronounce “Ottawa”
- What is the Primary Language in Ottawa, Canada?
- Is Ottawa in Quebec?
- Is Ottawa tap water safe to drink?
- How to Get From Ottawa Airport to Downtown Ottawa
- Where to Stay in Ottawa: 13 Best Neighbourhoods and Hotels
- Is Ottawa a Province?
- How Many Days in Ottawa is Ideal?
- Best Grocery Stores in Ottawa: Where to Shop in Ottawa
- 71 Fun Facts About Ottawa Canada
- 12 Best Ottawa Hotels With Jacuzzi In Room
- 22 Best Hotels in Ottawa with Pools
Ottawa Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Ottawa travel insurance?
100% YES! — There’s a misconception that Canada has “free healthcare” for everyone. Nope! Only Canadians. So you’ll need to get travel insurance to visit Ottawa. I recommend this one.
💧Can you drink the tap water in Ottawa?
Yes – ish — While you can technically drink the tap water in Ottawa, as a local I don’t recommend it. Old hotels especially can have some nasty things in their pipes. Instead, get a filtered water bottle. (Read more)
🚙💨 Do I need to rent a car in Ottawa?
Yes — Renting a car in Ottawa is one of the best ways to get around! You’ll be able to see more of the city and beyond, like the epic hiking trails. I recommend Discover Cars for the cheapest rates possible.
📲 Do I need to know French in Ottawa?
Nope! — The primary language of Ottawa is English. While French is also spoken and on some signs, you can easily get by without knowing any French. (Read more)
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Ottawa accommodations?
For Ottawa hotels, Booking is the best site. If you’re considering an Ottawa Airbnb, don’t forget to also check VRBO, which is often cheaper than Airbnb. My #1 hotel recommendation in Ottawa is the Fairmont Chateau Laurier.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Ottawa flights?
For finding cheap Ottawa flights, I recommend Skyscanner. You can even set a price alert to find out when flights are on sale.
🎫 Do I need a Visa for Ottawa?
Likely Not — U.S. and most European Passport holders don’t need a Visa to visit Canada.
📍 Where is Ottawa? And what’s nearby?
Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, located in Ontario. It’s right on the border of Quebec. It’s about 2 hours from Mont Tremblant, 3 hours from Montreal, or 5 hours from Toronto. You can take a road trip to get to other places or fly.
