Little Italy

Food + Drinks

Transport yourself to the heart of Italian culture is Little Italy, Ottawa’s hub for incredible Italian food. Delightful trattorias, charming cafes and quaint gelato shops line Preston Street. Indulge in savoury plates of pasta and thin crust pizza and immerse yourself in Canadian-Italian culture. The culinary experiences don’t stop there, with Japanese, seafood, and vegetarian options, Little Italy is a culinary adventure like no other. Preston Street is also full of plenty of pubs and cocktail bars. Don’t miss out on this must-visit culinary destination!

Arts + Culture

Little Italy isn’t just a culinary haven, it’s also a vibrant hub of arts and culture. Preston Street is adorned with murals and art installations that create a contemporary flair. Galleries and artisan boutiques showcase a range of local and international works, from classic to avant-garde. Throughout the summer, you can experience festivals, live music and other events taking place in the neighbourhood.

Outdoor activities

Situated next to Dow’s Lake and the Dominion Arboretum, Ottawa’s Little Italy neighbourhood is an outdoor enthusiast’s haven. In the summer months, you can rent stand up paddle boards, canoes, kayaks and peddle boats and enjoy a day on the iconic Rideau Canal. In the winter months, you can strap on a pair of skates and glide along the world’s largest outdoor skating rink. The Dominion Arboretum provides lush greenery with walking/cycling paths and plenty of space for picnics.  

Nightlife

Little Italy transforms into a dynamic nightlife destination as the sun sets. Preston Street, the heart of the neighbourhood, lights up with an array of vibrant bars, pubs and entertainment venues, creating an electric atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for live music, live comedy, some of the best food the city has to offer or something in between, you’ll find it in Ottawa’s Little Italy.

Major annual events + sports

Ottawa’s Italian Week Festival has been celebrated every year since 1975! The June event includes live music, a cycling race, a vintage car parade, Ferrari Festival and more.

Every May, the Ottawa-Gatineau region blooms during the annual Tulip Festival when close to one million tulips decorate the nation’s capital. With a sound and light show, walking tours, movies in the park and more, this festival is fun for the whole family.

You can see live entertainment including live music and live comedy year-round.

Find more businesses on the Preston Street BIA website.