Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is often overlooked in favor of larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver. However, as I wandered through its charming streets, I was pleasantly surprised by the vibrant and diverse food scene that the city has to offer. From traditional Canadian dishes to international flavors, Ottawa is a hidden gem for food lovers. During my recent trip, I made it my mission to explore the best local restaurants in the city, each offering something unique and special.
Here’s a guide to the top 10 authentic restaurants in Ottawa that reflect the city’s rich culinary landscape, with a blend of historical influences and contemporary flair.
1. ByWard Market: A Hub for Ottawa’s Culinary Culture
Located in the heart of Ottawa, ByWard Market is a must-see for anyone interested in experiencing the city’s culinary delights. This bustling area is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering everything from Canadian classics to international cuisine. As I strolled through the market, I couldn’t resist popping into several eateries for a taste of what this vibrant neighborhood has to offer.
One standout restaurant in the ByWard Market area is Beau’s All Natural Brewing Co., known for its excellent local craft beers paired with hearty Canadian pub food. I tried their signature poutine, loaded with cheese curds and gravy, and a refreshing pale ale to wash it down. The mix of savory comfort food and expertly brewed beer made this spot a memorable experience.
For a more upscale experience, Mamma’s Pizza is an iconic Ottawa institution. Offering delicious wood-fired pizzas, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a classic Italian meal with a Canadian twist. Their freshly baked pies, topped with local ingredients, highlight the fusion of flavors that are common in the city’s food scene.
Where to Book:
- OpenTable is a great platform for reserving a table at these popular spots. The app shows available times, and it’s easy to make changes if your plans shift.
2. La Bottega Nicastro: Italian Market Elegance
One of Ottawa’s most charming spots is La Bottega Nicastro, an Italian market and delicatessen nestled on the outskirts of ByWard Market. It’s not just a grocery store; it’s a culinary destination. I spent a few hours wandering through the aisles, sampling Italian cheeses, cured meats, and fresh pasta.
The in-store café serves delightful espresso, pastries, and sandwiches. I couldn’t resist trying a fresh panini, made with local ingredients, including Ottawa’s famous smoked meats. It’s a casual yet elegant dining experience, showcasing the local love for high-quality ingredients and simple yet sophisticated flavors.
Where to Book:
- The café doesn’t require reservations, but for a sit-down experience at a nearby Italian restaurant like Piatto (which uses products from La Bottega), you can book through Resy, which offers seamless reservations at local favorites.
3. The Whalesbone: Seafood by the Water
If you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, The Whalesbone is a must-visit. This cozy and unpretentious seafood restaurant offers a wide selection of fresh oysters, seafood platters, and fish dishes. Located by the Rideau Canal, the restaurant’s ambiance is relaxed yet sophisticated, offering a great view of the water.
I tried their oyster tasting, which came with a selection of different types of oysters, each with a unique flavor profile. The fresh seafood paired with a crisp glass of Canadian white wine made for an unforgettable meal.
The Whalesbone also offers an excellent variety of cocktails, including one of the best caesars I’ve had, which is Canada’s answer to the Bloody Mary.
Where to Book:
- You can book a table at The Whalesbone via their own website or on Bookatable. This allows you to avoid long waits during peak hours, ensuring a stress-free dining experience.
4. Sawdust City Brewery: Craft Beer & Local Cuisine
Ottawa is known for its craft beer scene, and Sawdust City Brewery is a shining example of this. Located in the Westboro area, this microbrewery combines exceptional beer with a menu full of locally sourced comfort food.
I ordered their bison burger, which was juicy and flavorful, paired with a flight of their signature beers. Each beer had its own distinct flavor profile, and the staff were more than happy to explain the brewing process. The brewery’s cozy atmosphere made it an ideal spot for enjoying a relaxed meal while exploring Ottawa’s growing craft beer culture.
Where to Book:
- Sawdust City Brewery doesn’t require reservations, but if you plan to visit during a busy time, it’s always a good idea to check Tock for potential availability or to schedule a brewery tour in advance.
5. Les Fougères: Upscale Canadian Dining
Located just outside the city center in Chelsea, Les Fougères is one of Ottawa’s most refined dining spots. Situated in a picturesque countryside setting, the restaurant is known for its elegant Canadian dishes, which focus on seasonal and local ingredients.
During my visit, I tried their duck breast, perfectly seared and paired with a rich, sweet sauce made from local maple syrup. The flavors were impeccable, and the service was exceptional. Every dish was beautifully presented, reflecting the chef’s attention to detail and respect for local produce.
Where to Book:
- Reservations can be made directly through the restaurant’s website, and you can also find available times on OpenTable. If you’re planning to visit during a busy season, it’s a good idea to reserve well in advance.
6. Tavola: A Taste of Italy
For a cozy, intimate dining experience, Tavola in the Glebe is the place to be. The small Italian restaurant has a warm, rustic ambiance, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a quiet meal with friends. The menu features classic Italian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, with a particular focus on fresh pastas.
I opted for the tagliatelle with wild mushrooms, and it was outstanding. The pasta was cooked to perfection, with a rich, earthy mushroom sauce that left me wanting more. The wine list was carefully curated, with a good selection of Italian wines that complemented the flavors of the dishes.
Where to Book:
- OpenTable is ideal for securing a spot at Tavola, especially on weekends when the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.
7. Ottawa’s Best Poutine: Smoke’s Poutinerie
Poutine is a quintessential Canadian dish, and no visit to Ottawa would be complete without indulging in this comforting comfort food. Smoke’s Poutinerie in the downtown area serves up one of the best versions of poutine in the city.
What sets this place apart is its variety of toppings, ranging from pulled pork to spicy sausage, all heaped on top of crispy fries and fresh cheese curds. The rich gravy pulls everything together, creating the perfect balance of flavors. The portions are generous, making it ideal for sharing—or for satisfying a hearty appetite.
Where to Book:
- Yelp is the go-to platform for finding local favorites like Smoke’s Poutinerie. While the restaurant doesn’t require reservations, it’s still a good idea to check peak hours and make sure you don’t miss out on a quick bite.
8. Play Food & Wine: Tapas with a Canadian Twist
If you’re looking for a contemporary dining experience, Play Food & Wine in the ByWard Market area is a fantastic option. Known for its innovative approach to tapas-style dining, the restaurant offers a variety of small plates with a Canadian twist.
The menu is filled with creative dishes, such as duck confit with maple syrup glaze and grilled octopus. Each dish was bursting with flavor, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to both quality and originality. It’s the perfect spot for foodies who want to try a little bit of everything, paired with a carefully curated wine list.
Where to Book:
- Resy is the best platform for booking a table at Play Food & Wine. They offer real-time availability and allow you to manage your reservations easily.
9. Café Merlot: A Cozy French Experience
For a charming French dining experience, Café Merlot in the downtown core is a top choice. The café offers an intimate atmosphere with an extensive menu filled with French classics. I opted for the Coq au Vin, a traditional French dish made with tender chicken slow-cooked in red wine. The richness of the sauce and the melt-in-your-mouth chicken made this a standout meal.
The café’s wine list is well-curated, with an emphasis on French wines, making it a perfect match for the French-inspired dishes.
Where to Book:
- Bookatable offers easy reservations for Café Merlot, ensuring that you don’t miss out on this cozy experience.
10. Kinki: Sushi with Style
For sushi lovers, Kinki offers an upscale dining experience with an innovative twist. The contemporary décor and vibrant atmosphere set the stage for a memorable meal. The menu features a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and creative fusion dishes that blend traditional Japanese techniques with Canadian flavors.
The sushi platter I tried was not only beautifully arranged but also packed with fresh, high-quality fish. The fusion rolls, such as the Crispy Salmon Roll, were inventive and added an exciting touch to the meal.
Where to Book:
- OpenTable or Yelp is ideal for booking a reservation at Kinki, especially if you want to guarantee a spot during busy times.
Exploring Ottawa’s food scene has been an eye-opening experience. From traditional Canadian comfort food to sophisticated fine dining, the city offers a diverse array of flavors that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or an upscale meal, Ottawa has something to satisfy every craving.
