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The 9 Most Remarkable Brunch Spots in Ontario You Need to Experience
So, you woke up a bit late—not too late, mind you; sometime past 9 AM but not exactly noon, and you’re extremely hungry. What do you do? You grab brunch, of course!
Brunch isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience (who wants to pass up a socially acceptable excuse for day drinking, eh?), and a delightful way to start your day a bit slower.
But with so many options in Ontario, where do you go for brunch? Well, don’t worry, we’ve done the hard work for you (and happily indulged ourselves in the process!).
We’ve tasted, sipped, and savored our way through countless spots to bring you the absolute best brunch destinations. So, ready those hungry stomachs and let’s dive into the top places for an unforgettable brunch experience!
Jax
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Address: 33 King St. W, Dundas
Website: https://jaxsweetshoppe.com/
Contact Details: +19056270529
Opening Hours: Daily 12–9 PM
Best Dishes to Try:
- Banana Bread French Toast
- Smoked Salmon Bagel
- Eggs Benedict
- Breakfast Hash (with pork belly)
Cost: $$
If you’re into the French-style morning feel with a touch of home, then you’ve got to check out Jax in Centretown. It’s this cozy little bistro tucked away on a busy street, and it’s like a hidden gem for locals.
Their Banana Bread French Toast and smoked Salmon bagel are to die for, and their eggs benedicts are always on point.
They also have some amazing daily specials and unique dishes like their breakfast hash with kale, fennel, cherry tomatoes, poached eggs, sesame seeds, and chilies. Trust us, add the pork belly to it and it’s the ultimate breakfast plate!
What’s cool is that Jax uses farm-fresh ingredients from local suppliers, so when you eat there, you’re also supporting local businesses.
Pro Tip:
Get there early, especially on weekends, because it gets packed pretty quickly. Plus, the early bird gets the best pick of their daily specials!
Chesterfield’s Gastro Diner
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Address: 1433 Wellington St.
Website: http://gastrodiner.ca/
Contact Details: +16136808990
Opening Hours: Daily 9 AM–2 PM
Best Dishes to Try:
- Jerk Benny
- Bird’s Nest
- Chicken and Waffles
- Double Blueberry Pancakes
Cost: $$
If you’re ever in Ottawa’s Wellington West neighborhood, you’ve got to stop by Chesterfield’s Gastro Diner. It’s this cute little spot that’s super popular and unique.
The place has this cozy vibe with quirky, mismatched furniture, including chesterfields (yep, you get to sit on actual chesterfields while you eat!).
Grab a foamy cappuccino and take your time browsing the menu. They’ve got all the classic brunch stuff, but with some fun twists.
One more thing: You’ve got to try the Jerk Benny, Bird’s Nest, chicken and waffles, double blueberry pancakes, and the Shakshuka Board—it’s not just tasty, it’s also perfect for Instagram.
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget the sides! The jerk plantains with mango salsa, hot cauliflower poutine, chipotle mac and cheese, loaded avocado, and roasted Brussel sprouts are all amazing. Perfect for making your brunch feast even better.
The Third
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Address: 1017 Wellington St.
Website: https://thethird.ca/
Contact Details: +16137282965
Opening Hours: Daily 11:30 AM–12 AM
Best Dishes to Try:
- Breakfast Nachos
- Mish Mash Hash
- Flat Top Burger
Cost: $$
The Third in Hintonburg is a staple on the Ottawa brunch scene, known for its relaxed and welcoming vibe. The atmosphere is super chill, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some delicious food.
Their menu might be small, but it’s packed with tasty options. Some of our favorites are the breakfast nachos, Mish Mash Hash, flat top burger, eggs benny, French toast, and their homemade scones. Seriously! Everything is so good you’ll keep coming back for more.
And if you’re into local brews, they’ve got a great selection like their white chocolate latte and honey tea. Grabbing a pint is the perfect way to top off your brunch date.
Pro Tip:
Try visiting on a weekday morning for a more relaxed experience. They Often feature a “surprise special” that’s not on the regular menu—ask your server about it for a delightful treat!
Marzanine Restaurant
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Address: 282 Kent St.
Website: https://www.mazarinebrunch.com/
Contact Details: +16135140153
Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM–2 PM
Best Dishes to Try:
- Shakshuka
- Crispy Cheese Cigars
- Shish Tawook Club Sandwich
- Mediterranean Omelet
Cost: $$$
Craving for something different—more specifically, Mediterranean? Then the Marzanine should be the ideal place for you!
It’s one of the most raved-about places in town right now. The vibe is super chill and airy, with this cool Mediterranean blue and bright white decor that makes it feel really cozy and peaceful.
They’ve got all the brunch classics like eggs benny and avocado toast, but you’ve got to try their specialties.
Also, the Shakshuka is amazing, and the crispy cheese cigars are a must. We also love the Shish Tawook Club Sandwich and the Mediterranean omelet. If you’re in the mood for something different, the beef kofta sandwich and Ashta Pancakes are also fantastic.
Pro Tip: If you’re a fan of fresh, homemade bread, ask for their daily baked pita. It’s not always on the menu, but it’s a game-changer when paired with their Mediterranean dishes.
Wilf and Ada’s
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Address: 510 Bank St.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/wilfandadasascratchdiner/
Contact Details: +16132317959
Opening Hours: Daily 8:30 AM–2 PM
Best Dishes to Try:
- Classic Breakfast
- Buttermilk French Toast
- Mariposa Duck Benny
- Eggs in Purgatory
Cost: $$
If you’re lucky enough to snag a table at Wilf and Ada’s, you’re in for a treat. This place is super popular for brunch in Ottawa’s Centretown neighborhood. The exposed brick walls, open kitchen, and cozy vibe make it a favorite spot for many.
They’ve got all the comforting brunch classics like a hearty breakfast and buttermilk French toast. But if you’re up for something different, you have to try their Mariposa duck benny or our favorite, the eggs in purgatory – poached eggs in this amazing homemade spicy sauce.
Don’t forget to pair your meal with a fresh juice, a nice cup of coffee, or even a bubbly mimosa, savory Caesar, or a local craft beer if you’re feeling it.
Pro Tip:
Wilf and Ada’s Bistro unfortunately has no reservations. You’ll have to wait in line, which is why coming earlier for brunch (technically breakfast) is best so you’ll have a seat by brunch!
Gezellig
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Address: 337 Richmond Rd.
Website: http://www.gezelligdining.ca/
Contact Details: +16136809086
Opening Hours: Daily 11:30 AM–2 PM, 5–9 PM
Best Dishes to Try:
- Espresso Panna Cotta
- Gezellig Huevos
- Mushrooms on Toast
- Banana Bread French Toast
Cost:
If you’re looking for an elegant yet cozy brunch spot in Ottawa, then try visiting Gezellig in Westboro Village.
It’s run by Stephen Beckta, a big name in the Ottawa food scene, and is set in this cool, converted 1950s bank building with high ceilings and tons of natural light—super chic and inviting.
Their menu is packed with amazing flavors. We love the espresso panna cotta, Gezellig huevos, mushrooms on toast, and banana bread French toast.
And if you’re feeling like a boozy brunch, they’ve got great options like a kir royale, mimosa, aperol spritz, or their house-made Caesar. Plus, their coffee is from Happy Goat Coffee, a local favorite.
Pro Tip:
Try to snag a seat by the windows—the natural light makes everything taste even better, and it’s perfect for those brunch photos!
The King Eddy
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Address: 47 Clarence St.
Website: http://kingeddyburgers.com/
Contact Details: +16136801700
Opening Hours: Daily 8 AM–10 PM
Best Dishes to Try:
- Northern Fried Chicken Benny
- Sour Cream Pancakes
- King Eddy Omelet
- King Portobello Brunch Plate
Cost: $$
If you’re ever in ByWard Market and craving some good brunch, you’ve got to hit up King Eddy. This place is a local favorite and it’s open all the time—like literally! It’s perfect for those late-night or early-morning brunch cravings.
Their menu is packed with tasty options. We’re obsessed with the Northern Fried Chicken Benny—it’s got crispy fried chicken and country gravy, yum.
The sour cream pancakes with whipped cream and strawberries are heavenly. For something hearty, the King Eddy omelet is loaded with all the good stuff, and the King Portobello brunch plate is an awesome veggie choice.
The place is also super chill and comfy. It’s kid-friendly too, so bring the little ones along. And for the adults, they’ve got mimosas, brunch Caesars, and this amazing spiked coffee called Bailey & The Jets.
Pro Tip:
Who says this place is just for brunch? Swing by during late-night hours if you want a quieter vibe and no wait. And don’t miss out on their rotating specials—always something new and delicious to try!
Headquarters
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Address: 115 Clarence St.
Website: http://hqottawa.com/
Contact Details: +16136954747
Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM–5 PM
Best Dishes to Try:
- Espresso Cream Cheese Pancakes
- Ginger Apple Grilled Cheese
- Rum Cherries and Waffles
- Truffle Parmesan Fries
- Brunch Poutine
Cost: $$
Looking for a brunch spot in ByWard Market that’s totally unique? Then better be ready for the Headquarters.
It’s part hair salon, part brunch spot – yes, you can actually get a haircut and enjoy brunch at the same place! Imagine sipping on a rosemary libertine or a s’mores espresso martini while getting your hair done. Sounds pretty cool, right?
But let’s talk about their brunch—it’s fantastic. You’ve got to try their espresso cream cheese pancakes, they’re seriously amazing.
The ginger apple grilled cheese is super tasty, and their rum cherries and waffles are a perfect sweet treat. And if you’re a fan of fries, their truffle parmesan fries and brunch poutine are must-tries.
They also have a great selection of non-alcoholic drinks. I’m obsessed with their specialty coffees like the root beer maple latte and the wild berry beetroot latte. On a warm day, their hibiscus lemonade or an icy cold ginger beer is super refreshing.
Pro Tip:
Try booking your salon appointment on a weekday morning. It’s less crowded, and you can enjoy a leisurely brunch afterwards without the weekend rush. Plus, ask about their off-menu items—sometimes they have special treats that aren’t listed!
Andaz Hotel
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Address: 325 Dalhousie St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7G1, Canada
Website: https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/en-US/yowaz-andaz-ottawa-byward-market
Contact Details: +16133211234
Opening Hours: Per booking basis (no reservations)
Best Dishes to Try:
- Charcuterie Buffet
- Fresh Baked Pastries
- Homemade Mini Donuts
- Fresh Fruit Platters
- DIY Caesar Bar
Cost: $$$
Copper Spirits and Sights at the Andaz hotel is a surprising one because it’s a joint within a hotel which may be quite hard to get into for just a regular brunch due to reservations.
It’s on the 16th floor, so you get these epic views of downtown Ottawa, Parliament Hill, and the ByWard Market. It’s actually the tallest rooftop patio in the city!
Nevertheless, they have this awesome event called Bubbles, Beats, and Brunch during the summer.
You get to enjoy an amazing charcuterie buffet, fresh baked pastries, homemade mini donuts, and these gorgeous fresh fruit platters. They also have a rotating selection of small brunch bites that are always delicious.
And of course, you can’t forget the drinks. Sip on a glass of bubbles or one of their specialty cocktails while chilling on their chic outdoor patio, all while listening to cool beats from their in-house DJ.
If you love Caesars, you’ll go crazy for their DIY Caesar bar—you can make it as spicy or as loaded with olives as you want.
Pro Tip:
Head up to the rooftop just before sunset for stunning views and a great atmosphere as the city lights come on. Also, they offer blankets for those cooler evenings, so you can stay cozy while enjoying your drinks and the view.
