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Top 11 Restaurants in Ottawa to Fill Your Appetite
Ottawa has always been a personal favorite of ours because of the amazing landscapes and beautiful places to visit. But as foodies, we definitely aren’t biased about this place because of the delicious food and fantastic restaurants that you can visit here—we jest, of course.
Kidding aside, Ottawa is the place to be if you want to grab a quick bite inside a restaurant that’s worthwhile. Ready to tour around the city for some delicious food? Then here’s our guide to picking the best of them and making your stomachs full!
Fraser Cafe
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Address: 7 Springfield Rd, Ottawa, ON K1M 1C8, Canada
Website: https://www.fraserrestaurant.ca/
Contact Details: +16137491444
Opening Hours: Daily 11:30 AM–2 PM
Costs: $$
Fraser Café is one of our favorite cafes with a beautiful ambience and delicious coffee. This cozy spot showcases a menu that captures the essence of Canada’s diverse culture through the Fraser brothers’ culinary creations.
With dishes that whisk you from the familiar streets of Ottawa to the flavors of the world, such as Korean fried eggplant and crab ravioli.
Diving into the seasonal menu offerings is a must. You’ll find that the ever-changing selections are not only a nod to the freshest ingredients but also a testament to the brothers’ innovation in the kitchen.
Pro Tip:
Indulge in their brunch menu if you can, as it has innovative twists on classic dishes. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory breakfasts, there’s something to delight your taste buds.
Thali
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Address: 136 O’Connor St, Ottawa, ON K2P 2G7, Canada
Website: https://thaliottawa.ca/
Contact Details: +16135944545
Opening Hours: Daily 11 AM–3 PM
Costs: $
Ready for a culinary journey to South India without leaving the city? Let’s go to the vibrant flavors at Joe Thottungal’s newest eatery, Thali, a sister to the acclaimed Coconut Lagoon.
Here, the star of the show is the thali: a daily-changing platter that brings the freshest seasonal delights to your table. Alongside, a tantalizing array of curries, vindaloos, biryanis, and soups await to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of South India.
Pro Tip:
The best time to visit Thali is during lunch when the thali selection is at its peak, offering a broad spectrum of what the kitchen does best. This way, you get the freshest, most authentic experience possible.
Union Local 613
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Address: 315 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K2P 0J8, Canada
Website: http://union613.ca/
Contact Details: +16132311010
Opening Hours: Daily 3 PM–12 AM
Costs: $$
Buckle up for a culinary curveball right in Ottawa, where Union Local 613 flips the script on Southern cuisine with a Canadian twist.
Not just a one-trick pony, this spot boasts the Jabberwocky Supper Club upstairs, serving up high-end monthly menus with vegan delights. This place also hides a speakeasy called the Staff Room behind a bookcase for those in-the-know cocktail aficionados.
Pro Tip:
Swing by the Staffroom speakeasy if you’re after an evening of clandestine cocktails. This hidden gem offers an ambiance that’s as intriguing as its drink menu, perfect for those looking to sip something extraordinary in a setting that feels like a well-kept secret.
New Pho Bo Ga La
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Address: 763 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K1R 6R1, Canada
Website: https://newphobogala.ca/
Contact Details: +16132332222
Opening Hours: Daily 11 AM–11 PM
Costs: $$
Strolling down Somerset between Booth and Bronson unveils a haven for pho enthusiasts, where New Pho Bo Ga La stands out with its hearty, flavorful bowls.
This family-run spot delights with a diverse menu featuring not just pho, but also bún bò huế, Thai tom kha, and various dishes over rice or vermicelli.
Catering to the night owls, they serve until 11 PM during the week and midnight on weekends. It’s definitely a go-to for late-night cravings.
Pro Tip:
For an insider’s experience, ask for their off-menu specials. We always swear by these hidden gems for a taste of something unique and authentically Vietnamese.
Di Rienzo
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Address: 111 Beech St, Ottawa, ON K1S 4P1, Canada
Website: http://dirienzo.ca/
Contact Details: +16137294037
Opening Hours: Daily 8:30 AM–7 PM
Costs: $
If you’re plotting your next culinary escapade in Ottawa, you simply can’t overlook Di Rienzo’s—a charming gem tucked away in Little Italy.
This spot is not your average grocery; it’s a sanctuary for sandwich lovers, offering a delectable selection of Italian subs that are a testament to the beauty of simplicity.
With choices like mortadella, prosciutto, and the slightly Canadian twist of Havarti cheese, your taste buds are in for a treat. The best part? You won’t have to break the bank because a solid sandwich can cost you around $8, which is a steal!
And let’s not forget the creative options that include everything from spicy pickled eggplant to sun-dried tomatoes and hot peppers. You can even pick your favorite meat, toppings, and even the type of bread for your snack!
Pro Tip:
Di Rienzo operates on a cash-only basis. Yes, in a digital age, this spot keeps it delightfully old-school, so make sure to swing by an ATM before you dive into their sandwich heaven.
Supply and Demand
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Address: 1335 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3B7, Canada
Website: http://www.supplyanddemandfoods.ca/
Contact Details: +16136802949
Opening Hours: Daily 5–10 PM
Costs: $$
Eating delicious meals is one thing, but cooking them inside the restaurant yourself is simply next level.
Supply and Demand gives you this incredibly unique experience combining fresh ingredients and mixing up your dining experience that’ll definitely not leave your mind after your plate is finished!
This neighborhood favorite, acclaimed for its inventive cuisine, has quickly become a must-visit for those in Ottawa who are seeking a dining experience that offers more than just a meal.
From its seafood-dominated menu to the cozy, inviting ambiance, it’s clear why locals and visitors alike keep coming back.
Pro Tip:
For a unique twist, the restaurant offers pasta classes that end with a delicious dinner, showcasing the chef’s dedication to sharing his craft. Remember, reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot in this bustling spot.
The Belmont
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Address: 1169 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3X7, Canada
Website: http://www.belmontottawa.com/
Contact Details: +16139793663
Opening Hours: Daily 5–10 PM
Costs: $$
At The Belmont in Ottawa, I’ve found a place that really knows how to do mornings right with something they call the Full Belmont. It’s their fancy take on the classic full English breakfast, but made with the best local ingredients.
This place isn’t just a morning spot, though. When evening rolls around, The Belmont turns into a global kitchen. Their dinner menu has taken me from the light zest of scallop ceviche to the cozy vibes of patatas bravas, and even to the vibrant tastes of Trini doubles.
It’s like this cool mix of a laid-back café vibe in the morning and a round-the-world culinary trip by night!
Pro Tip:
As The Belmont is usually crowded during the weekends, plan to drop by during off-peak hours or mid-week to enjoy a more intimate and less rushed dining experience.
Semsem
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Address: 2430 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1V 0T7, Canada
Website: https://www.semsem.ca/
Contact Details: +16137335736
Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM–3 PM
Costs: $$
This charming little restaurant called SemSem introduced us to Palestinian food, and we were simply blown away!
Their bakery is something else—za’atar-dusted breads and man’oushe flatbreads that are just out of this world. But it’s not just about the bread; they serve up dishes that are a beautiful mix of spices, chickpeas, and fava beans, all rooted in their heritage.
Plus, they do catering, which means you can bring a piece of this experience to your events. It’s like having a slice of authentic Palestinian culture right here in Ottawa.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss out on their hearty, spice-infused dishes featuring chickpeas and fava beans. It’s a great spot for both a quick bite and catering for special events, offering a unique blend of traditional flavors and modern twists.
Sherwood Supermarket
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Address: 111 Sherwood Dr, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3V1, Canada
Website: http://www.sherwoodmarketdeli.com/
Contact Details: +16137296011
Opening Hours: Daily 7 AM–9 PM
Costs: $$
Sherwood is a great and charming eatery in Ottawa that locals love with its no-frills but utterly delicious sandwiches for over thirty years.
Imagine biting into a pulled chicken sandwich that’s a true showstopper, perfectly paired with bacon and avocado, nestled between slices of egg bread. This combination has rightfully earned its place as a crowd favorite!
If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, the menu doesn’t shy away from variety, offering everything from smoked meat to crab, and turkey bacon creations, all without breaking the bank—every option is under $9!
Pro Tip:
The allure of Sherwood’s sandwiches lies in their fresh ingredients paired with their unique egg bread—so definitely give it a try! This combination transforms even the simplest of sandwiches into a culinary delight you’ll remember. It’s a perfect example of how quality ingredients can elevate a meal from ordinary to extraordinary.
Golden Palace Restaurant
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Address: 2195 Carling Ave, Ottawa, ON K2B 7E8, Canada
Website: http://www.goldenpalacerestaurant.ca/
Contact Details: +16138208444
Opening Hours: Daily 11 AM–7 PM
Costs: $$
Who knew a wager on a hockey game would spotlight Ottawa’s culinary icon – Golden Palace’s egg rolls? When the Senators duked it out with the Canadiens, Ottawa’s then-mayor didn’t just bet on his team; he put these egg rolls on the line.
These egg rolls, a masterpiece of pork and veggies wrapped in a crispy, golden-brown shell, have been winning hearts since 1960. Whether you dunk them in zesty hot mustard or sweet plum sauce, they’re a culinary home run!
Couple the iconic eggy goodness with the homey vibes inside the restaurant, and you’re in for a gastronomic time!
Pro Tip:
If you don’t have time to drop by the place, you can order the egg rolls through Golden Palace Restaurant’s website. They can ship anywhere in Ontario, and they even have detailed instructions on reheating so you can have it just as fresh!
Chesterfield’s Gastro Diner
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Address: 1433 Wellington St. W #111, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2X2, Canada
Website: http://gastrodiner.ca/
Contact Details: +16136808990
Opening Hours: Daily 9 AM–2 PM
Costs: $$$
Chesterfield Gastro Diner has almost all the qualities that make a great fancy restaurant: Welcoming atmosphere, prime food, and of course, excellent service.
It may be called a diner, but make no mistake about it—it’s anything but a $10 eatery in the middle of nowhere.
Inside, the atmosphere is just exquisite with luxurious chairs and tables, and you can definitely feel the ‘fancy’ when eating here. But it’s not just the atmosphere that’s got us hooked; it’s also their inventive take on brunch classics that really stands out.
Their Eggs Benedict on challah is a game-changer, and the Cinnamon Toast Crunch-coated French toast? Absolute genius. They also have these amazing sides, like cauliflower poutine and loaded avocados, adding a fresh twist to the brunch scene.
Pro Tip:
If there’s one food item in the menu that we personally recommend, it’s the air-fried chicken on challah Benny. This dish perfectly balances the richness of hollandaise with the lightness of air-fried chicken.