The 25 Best Ottawa Restaurants in 2024 (2024)

As Canada’s vibrant capital city, it’s not surprising that there are many incredible Ottawa restaurants to dine at. The city really has something for everyone, from cosy bistros to high-end restaurants and everything in between. The cuisines on offer are also varied with Canadian dishes as well as international offerings like Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines on offer, among many others.

If you’ve been having some difficulty deciding where to make reservations due to the numerous options available, this guide is here to help. We’ve curated a list of the top restaurants that are constantly pushing the food scene in Ottawa forward with their creative, innovative menu options and gorgeous settings. Keep reading to discover all the best Ottawa restaurants and decide where to head for your next meal out on the town.

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• The 25 Best Restaurants in Ottawa
• Try Cooking Ottawa Foods

The 25 Best Restaurants in Ottawa

1. Beckta Dining & Wine

First up on our list of the top Ottawa restaurants to visit is Beckta Dining & Wine. As the name suggests, this restaurant also features a separate wine bar for those so inclined. Beckta serves up a seasonal menu of New Canadian dishes, inspired by local ingredients.

The Vibe

Upscale and modern, with bright orange chairs set against classy white-clothed tables. This eatery definitely puts an exciting spin on fine dining.

What to Order

The seasonal menu rotates regularly but the signature seafood dishes, especially the Chinook salmon or crispy perch, are a great choice if available. The roasted cauliflower with tahini purée and miso marinated dolma is another can’t-miss dish. For the adventurous, try the five-course tasting menu, with a plant-based version also on offer, and be sure to end your meal with a creative dessert.

Beckta Dining & Wine | 150 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON K2P 1L4 | $$$$

2. Corner Peach

Another of the best Ottawa restaurants that focuses on local produce is Corner Peach. With a sister store beside it that sells artisanal grocery items, you can have your delicious meal and take something home to enjoy later.

The Vibe

Rustic and hip, with exposed brick walls and vintage wall art. A black and white chequered floor and blue seating add additional colour and charm to this inviting space. The limited lunch and dinner hours make this Ottawa restaurant even more elusive and intriguing.

What to Order

There is a rotating menu, but potential dishes include beef tartare with fries and aioli and a giant mushroom-stuffed pierogi with cabbage and sour cream.

Corner Peach | 802 Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON K1R 7J9 | $$

3. North & Navy

North & Navy is a contemporary Ottawa restaurant that serves up North Italian dishes with a Canadian twist. There’s also a wine bar and all dishes feature seasonal and local ingredients. For special events, they also offer private dining in a gorgeous space.

The Vibe

Set in a converted brick house, this Ottawa restaurant is undoubtedly cosy and romantic. The wooden flooring, antique furniture and vintage artwork add a homey feeling throughout.

What to Order

The seasonal menu rotates regularly but, if available, try the savoury polpette to start and then indulge in a pasta course, with both gluten-free and vegan fresh pasta on offer. For mains, tempting options may include quail with braised endive, seared scallops with dill and fennel salad or Fogo Island cod with corn purée. Don’t miss out on dessert either, with classic treats like affogato and tiramisu on the menu.

North & Navy | 226 Nepean St., Ottawa, ON K2P 0B8 | $$$

4. Semsem

When it comes to popular Ottawa restaurants that specialize in Middle Eastern breakfast and brunch fare, Semsem is the place to be. Named after the Arabic word for sesame, this core ingredient of Middle Eastern cuisine features in most dishes.

The Vibe

This spot is super casual, allowing you to focus on the food. While minimalist in design, purple and green chairs and counters add a fun and brightening pop of colour.

What to Order

Try the classic fatteh tahini, complete with layers of fried pita, chickpeas, pomegranate seeds and marinated tahini, plus a side of assorted pickles. The fattah yogurt with meat is also deliciously savoury. If having brunch or breakfast in Ottawa with friends or family, ordering a selection of dishes to share is highly recommended.

Semsem | 2430 Bank St., Unit 11, Ottawa, ON K1V 0T7 | $$

5. Green Door Vegetarian Restaurant & Bakery

There’s a lot that Green Door Vegetarian Restaurant & Bakery has to offer as a local Ottawa restaurant that specializes in vegetarian fare. From a weight-based buffet and pre-made online orders (for meals and desserts) to catering options, this is undoubtedly a vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free haven.

The Vibe

Rustic and lively, with ample seating inside and on the outdoor patio. The self-serve option adds to the unique nature of Green Door.

What to Order

The seasonal buffet menu rotates regularly but often features popular items like mushroom and spinach lasagna and tofu broccoli stir fry. There’s also an extensive selection of house-baked cakes, pies, cookies and more — sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth!

Green Door Vegetarian Restaurant & Bakery | 198 Main St., Ottawa, ON K1S 1C6 | $$

6. Aperitivo

If wine bars and tapas-style spots are more your speed, Aperitivo is the perfect Ottawa restaurant for you. With abundant Mediterranean small plates and other shareable dishes inspired by international flavours, there’s sure to be something for everyone. There’s also an excellent wine list for you to select a glass or bottle from.

The Vibe

This Ottawa restaurant is lively and informal, with an exposed ceiling, solid wooden seating and inspiring artwork on the walls. There’s also a patio to enjoy when the weather is nice.

What to Order

The rotating menu offers many highlights, including delicious tacos, a delicate charcuterie board, marinated eggplant and fresh oysters. Sharing is the name of the game here, so get as many dishes as you fancy to try a bit of everything.

Aperitivo | 655 Kanata Ave., Unit L2, Ottawa, ON K2T 1H8 | $$$

7. New Pho Bo Ga La

For more than 15 years, New Pho Bo Ga La has been serving traditional Vietnamese cuisine to Somerset neighbourhood locals and visitors alike.

The Vibe

Homey and casual, with leafy plants dotting the booth seats and traditional Vietnamese décor on the walls.

What to Order

Try the classic rare beef pho or the chicken pho, both of which are menu staples. The bún bò Hue, a traditional spicy soup, is also delicious for those who enjoy some heat.

New Pho Bo Ga La | 763 Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON K1R 6R1 | $$

8. Yangtze

Yangtze is a popular Ottawa restaurant serving mouthwatering Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine. If you want to find high-quality Chinese food in Ottawa, this is the place to be!

The Vibe

Spacious and lively, with ample tables, impressive chandeliers and traditional Chinese décor. Sharing dishes around a large table with friends and family adds to the enjoyable atmosphere of this space.

What to Order

For dim sum, try the fluffy barbeque pork buns, golden lava buns or the shrimp siu mai. For dinner, opt for a set menu to ensure you try the best dishes available. Options include hot and sour soup, kung pao shrimp and fried rice.

Yangtze | 700 Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON K1R 6P6 | $$

9. Thali

Thali is an Ottawa restaurant that’s hitting it out of the park when it comes to traditional Indian cuisine. Its name comes from the signature Indian Thali meals it serves, which include a myriad of balanced dishes like rice, vegetables, bread, meat, chutneys and more.

The Vibe

Modern and relaxed, with sleek neutral colours, low-hanging lights and comfy wooden seating.

What to Order

The classic butter chicken is a must-order. Another popular and unique option is the lobster masala which is cooked in a mild coconut and ginger sauce with hints of cardamom. There are also lots of meat-free options, such as eggplant masala and black lentil dal. Make sure to try the mango lassi as well.

Thali | 136 O'Connor St., Ottawa, ON K2P 2G7 | $$

10. Chez Lucien

Chez Lucien is a charming Ottawa restaurant in the Byward Market area. This restaurant effortlessly merges American, Canadian and French flavours into a creative menu of comfort foods, with craft beer also on offer. With a jukebox and live jazz performances, there’s definitely no shortage of entertainment for guests.

The Vibe

Vintage, rustic and immensely cosy. The relaxed pub atmosphere is sure to bring comfort after a long week.

What to Order

Go for the signature Lucien Burger, a beef burger with cheddar, bacon and red onion jam. The Frida and Diego Burger is also delicious as are the escargot.

Chez Lucien | 137 Murray St., Ottawa, ON K1N 5M7 | $$

11. Town

Tucked away on Elgin Street, Town is a cosy Ottawa restaurant that prioritizes simple, good food. Hungry for more? Town’s sister restaurant, Citizen, is right around the corner.

The Vibe

Modern yet rustic, it’s favoured by those that love trendy restaurants as much as those who enjoy warm and cosy eateries. For wine connoisseurs, the extensive collection featured in the bottle shop adds to the sophisticated experience.

What to Order

Go for the fresh house-made agnolotti or mushroom gnocchi, both dishes are comforting and full of flavour. The salads are also delicious and packed full of seasonal ingredients.

Town | 296 Elgin St., Ottawa, ON K2P 1M3 | $$$

12. Atelier

If you’re tired of the usual dining experience and want to feel inspired by food again, visit Atelier. This Ottawa restaurant specializes in an impressive 40-course tasting gastronomy menu created to highlight the enticing transformations found in cooking.

The Vibe

The ambiance for guests at this Ottawa restaurant is upscale. With sleek seating and marble tile walls inside an unassuming building, dining here is sure to be a one-of-a-kind experience.

What to Order

The tasting menu is a superb work of art, complete with inventive dishes like sriracha focaccia, deconstructed dango and more. Pescatarian and vegetarian versions of the tasting menu are also available.

Atelier | 540 Rochester St., Ottawa, ON K1S 4M1 | $$$$

13. Union Local 613

Described as a place of Southern-inspired comfort, Union Local 613 is a great place for a relaxed and indulgent meal. This Ottawa restaurant offers a menu of creative dishes that highlight classic Southern flavours with daring new twists.

The Vibe

With two levels of rustic seating, eclectic art hanging on exposed brick walls and an overall speakeasy-style atmosphere, this is the perfect place to catch up with friends or have a fun date night dinner.

What to Order

Start with the Southern escargots which come with fresh house-made poblano bread. The fried chicken is a must for a comforting main. It comes complete with regular or Nashville fried chicken, plus cornbread, grits, Southern greens, pickles and pepper vinegar sauce. The curried cauliflower is also an excellent choice for plant-based eaters.

Union Local 613 | 315 Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON K2P 0J8 | $$$

14. Rangoon

To enjoy the best authentic Burmese food that the Ottawa restaurant scene has to offer, book a table at Rangoon. The dishes served here showcase traditional Burmese cooking techniques and flavours, all combined with fresh local ingredients.

The Vibe

Forest green and burnt orange walls, plus rustic wooden chairs and vintage décor accents create a vibrant yet comfortable setting for guests.

What to Order

The Mohinga, a traditional Burmese fish soup, is a must-try. Follow up with a meat, fish or vegetable curry, accompanied by a refreshing Asian beer. If you want to try a few dishes or can't decide what to get, ordering one of the set menus is the way to go.

Rangoon | 634 Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON K1R 5K4 | $$

15. Riviera

Found near Parliament Hill in what used to be a bank building is Riviera, a spacious Ottawa restaurant with impressive ceilings and unique private dining options. Book a banker’s office or cellar vault for your next group dinner for an especially memorable evening or just dine in the main dining room for a relaxed meal.

The Vibe

Refined and classy, with an open kitchen and an emphasis on the history of the building itself. Notably, this unique and elegant spot is a great place for a romantic meal if you’re looking for dinner date ideas in Ottawa.

What to Order

The menu rotates regularly but always features luxurious dishes like beef tartare with shaved truffle and seafood towers. The lobster spaghetti and steak frites are also worthy options. Treat yourself by ending your meal with one of Riviera's delicious desserts.

Riviera | 62 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A5 | $$

16. The Whalesbone

Visiting The Whalesbone is a must if you’re looking to get your seafood fix. As the city’s original oyster house, stepping inside will immediately transport you to another time and place — one that aims to be both rustic and nostalgic with good music and loud laughter in the air.

The Vibe

Each location of this Ottawa restaurant has a tavern-style atmosphere, with wooden panel ceilings, sturdy hightop seating and a buzzing energy all around.

What to Order

Start with the jumbo shrimp co*cktail with lemon, accompanied by freshly shucked oysters. If you prefer a hot dish, try the baked oysters or roasted bone marrow. For your main dish, the lobster pasta is a decadent option you won’t regret ordering.

The Whalesbone | Multiple Locations | $$$

17. Fauna Food + Bar

Fauna Food + Bar is the Ottawa restaurant to visit if you’re craving fresh farm-to-table fare. Found in Centretown, this restaurant serves a creative menu inside an inspiring renovated space.

The Vibe

Inspired by nature, the exposed brick walls, warm lighting and outdoor dining options create an easygoing and fun atmosphere.

What to Order

This is another Ottawa restaurant with a rotating seasonal menu. Popular choices, when available, include fresh oysters, lamb tartare with fingerling potato chips and halibut with tom yum broth and dumplings. Be sure to also order at least one dessert, with options like coconut cake with poached rhubarb and chocolate mousse on the menu.

Fauna Food + Bar | 425 Bank St., Ottawa, ON K2P 1Y7 | $$$

18. Arlo Wine & Restaurant

Arlo is one of the best Ottawa restaurants to visit for a delicious lunch or dinner complete with excellent wine. As with many restaurants in Ottawa, there is a big focus on fresh local and seasonal produce.

The Vibe

An urban oasis with ample plants, candles and solid wooden tables for seating. The painted panelled walls and vintage art add a hint or warmth and charm to the space. There is also an outdoor patio that’s ideal for summertime al fresco dining.

What to Order

The menu is seasonal, but dishes you may get to enjoy include Brussels sprouts salad with pickled seaweed and black garlic dressing or harissa charred cauliflower served with a smoky eggplant purée.

Arlo Wine & Restaurant | 340 Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON K2P 0J9 | $$$

19. Torta Boyz

From humble beginnings as a food truck to the lively brick-and-mortar location in operation today, Torta Boyz is among the best Ottawa restaurants serving authentic Mexican fare to all.

The Vibe

Busy and fun, with an Industrial vibe and an outdoor patio for the summers. The colourful décor matches the upbeat pace of this bustling Ottawa restaurant.

What to Order

Go for the freshly made carne asada torta, a signature dish that features deliciously flavoured skirt steak. Grab a side of loaded fries and the Caesar salad as well, with churros to finish. Make sure to also pair your food with a classic margarita.

Torta Boyz | 60A Lebreton St. N., Ottawa, ON K1R 7H4 | $$

20. Chesterfield’s Gastro Diner

After dining at Chesterfield’s Gastro, there’s a good chance it will become your new favourite Ottawa restaurant for brunch! Chesterfield’s offers elevated brunch fare with a health-conscious twist, with air-fried ingredients and other creative cooking techniques that make for a feel-good experience every time.

The Vibe

Casual, artsy and slightly industrial. Relaxing artwork and chalkboard menus hang on the walls underneath string lights that have been woven around the exposed pipes of the ceiling.

What to Order

Make sure to try the signature Bird’s Nest, a cheese and house bacon jam-filled potato cake topped with maple lime holly, bacon bits and two poached eggs. The Foghorn Leghorn Benny is also delicious and comes with air-fried chicken and challah.

Chesterfield’s Gastro Diner | 1433 Wellington St. W., Ste. 111, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2X4 | $$

21. Stofa Restaurant

Stofa Restaurant is an Ottawa restaurant led by award-winning Chefs Jason Sawision and Kathryn Ferries. Under their capable hands, Stofa offers cultivated tasting menus that transform traditional dishes into new masterpieces through the expert use of international influences and innovative techniques.

The Vibe

This Ottawa restaurant can be described as one that embodies a muted modern-chic energy. It features pale blue walls, abstract décor and comfy dark blue seats in a spacious setting.

What to Order

The menu offers three and five-course options of delectable seasonal dishes. Appetizers can include beef tartare and tempura soft-shell crab. For mains, you may get to enjoy dishes like squash blossoms with risotto or seared scallops seasoned with a delicious balance of flavours. To finish your meal, you’ll be treated to an indulgent dessert.

Stofa Restaurant | 1356 Wellington St. W., Ottawa, ON K1Y 3C3 | $$$

22. Absinthe

Absinthe is a contemporary bistro serving new Canadian cuisine. This Ottawa restaurant boasts a seasonal menu inspired by the fusion of local Ontario and Quebec ingredients with classical French cooking techniques to create an extraordinary dining experience. This eatery offer delicious prix fixe menus and a popular happy hour as well.

The Vibe

Rustic and contemporary, with large mirrors on the walls, comfy seating and a signature eye-catching viridescent wall at the back proclaiming the name of this Ottawa restaurant.

What to Order

While the menu is seasonal, popular dishes that have been in the rotation include steak frites, butternut squash soup and salmon with sweet pea purée.

Absinthe | 1208 Wellington St. W., Ottawa, ON K1Y 0X9 | $$$

23. Supply and Demand

Another top Ottawa restaurant known for delectable dishes and co*cktails is Supply and Demand. This chic space is known for its seasonal menu and fresh raw bar dishes, all inspired by sustainable ingredients and handmade techniques.

The Vibe

Modern and fun, with comfy seating and darker lighting with candles in the evenings to set the mood. Mirrors hang on the wall to create a reflective, almost sea-like atmosphere.

What to Order

Try the albacore tuna crudo which comes with lemon, truffle oil and puffed rice. All of the freshly made pasta dishes are also delicious. If you’ve got the room for it, order the Eton mess for dessert.

Supply and Demand | 1335 Wellington St. W., Ottawa, ON K1Y 3B6 | $$$

24. The Belmont

Whether you’re craving brunch, dinner or drinks and small plates, a visit to The Belmont will leave you satisfied. Since 2014, this restaurant has been serving up some of the most creative Ottawa food around, redefining classic dishes and adding a Belmont twist.

The Vibe

This intimate space is warmly lit and lively in the evenings. With warm wooden accents and a cosy bar-like atmosphere, it’s no wonder why this is one of the most popular Ottawa restaurants for a fun yet casual night out.

What to Order

Try the octopus carpaccio, complete with chorizo, tobiko, lemon and a spicy oil for a bit of heat. The piri piri chicken is also highly rated. If you’re more peckish than hungry, you can also choose from bar snacks, such as Egyptian dukkah with bread or warm olives with lemon and fennel.

The Belmont | 1169 Bank St., Ottawa, ON K1S 3X7 | $$

25. Heartbreakers Pizza

Whether you’re heartbroken or not, you’ll be healed after a meal at Heartbreakers Pizza! This Ottawa restaurant offers a creative modern Italian menu of pizza, wine and more. With vegan and halal versions for every pizza, there’s something for everyone.

The Vibe

As one of the best Ottawa restaurants around, this casual neighbourhood pizza joint is light, welcoming and comfortable for all.

What to Order

Among the many signature pizzas offered, Fun Guy is a great one to try, featuring mushrooms and mushroom cream as well as aged mozzarella. The Vegan Veggie Supreme with cashew cheese and lots of fresh vegetables is another top order, whether you’re plant-based or not. Make sure to try the celebration cake for dessert.

Heartbreakers Pizza | 465 Parkdale Ave., Ottawa, ON K1Y 1H5 | $$

Try Cooking Ottawa Foods

There’s certainly no shortage of fantastic Ottawa restaurants to visit, however, cooking up your own delectable dinner is sometimes even more fun than dining out. To try your hand at whipping up some new dishes, explore one of many cooking classes in Ottawa, all of which are taught by expert chefs. In almost no time at all, you’ll be able to create your own delicious creations for your friends and loved ones right in the comfort of your own home.

Ottawa is a vibrant city with an incredible food scene that becomes more notable and innovative each year. If you’re new to the Ottawa food scene or are just looking for a new place to eat, this list of the best Ottawa restaurants should have given you some ideas on where to book a table next.

For even more ways to explore Ottawa and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.