Craving a bite between museums, gearing up for a Gatineau Park hike, or on the hunt for a culinary nightcap? Ottawa’s street food scene delivers from dawn to dusk (and dawn again). With restaurants serving takeaway-friendly fare and a fleet of food trucks popping up across the capital, it’s easy to snack your way through the city. Here are the top street eats in Ottawa – each known for distinctive flavours, thoughtful preparation and local followings.
Pizza Nerds
Known for bold toppings, playful names, and massive flavour, Pizza Nerds brings a fresh edge to Ottawa’s pizza scene. Grab a slice (or a whole pie) from their takeout-only location in Old Ottawa South and enjoy views of the Rideau Canal and Dow’s Lake. Try their Queen Elizabeth or Bank pizzas with the side chickpea salad or one of their signature sauces.
Cô Châm
Ask a local where to get the best banh mi, and chances are they’ll send you to Cô Châm in Chinatown. This family-run spot is beloved for its fresh, flavourful Vietnamese sandwiches, especially the assorted banh mi. Dining in? Their spicy sate pho is a rare Ottawa find. Bonus: buy five banh mi, get one free.
Smash Daddy
Smash Daddy is a rising star in Ottawa’s burger scene, where burgers are grilled to perfection with crispy edges, juicy centres, and just the right hit of sauce. Their menu emphasizes quality ingredients, from grass-fed halal beef to house-seasoned fries. Try the classic Smash Daddy or splurge on a Wagyu Daddy at their food trucks in Centretown and Little Italy. It’s a standout for burger lovers.
The Merry Dairy
This retro-chic scoop shop brings serious joy to the dessert scene, including dairy-free options. The Merry Dairy serves something for everyone, with small-batch ice cream flavours including hibiscus passionfruit and Earl Grey shortbread. Visit their flagship location in Hintonburg or catch their food truck at local events and festivals.
Paninaro
Paninaro brings bright flavours and elevated ingredients to downtown Ottawa. The porchetta sandwich and the pistachio cream with mortadella combo are standout favourites. With knowledgeable staff and hearty portions, Paninaro delivers a refined yet approachable take on Italian comfort food. Don’t forget a cannoli!
Shawarma Palace
No street food roundup would be complete without Ottawa’s beloved shawarma institution, with locations across the capital region. Shawarma Palace is widely recognized for its consistent quality, generous portions and extended hours. Stop in to refuel during a day of sightseeing or cap off a night out – and don’t sleep on the garlic potatoes.
All Out Burger
All Out Burger is a local favourite for fare that travels well and tastes even better. Try the fried mozzarella burger or the heat burger, paired with kettle chips that stay crispy thanks to thoughtful packaging. Their consistent quality has earned them top local ratings. Visit them near Chinatown or at locations across the city.
SuzyQ Doughnuts
If sweet treats are your love language, SuzyQ speaks it fluently. For nearly 15 years, this Hintonburg hotspot has turned donuts into an art form. Their maple bacon doughnut remains a cult classic, but any of their “Day-One” flavours are sure to impress. Prepare to leave with a half-dozen.
Wolf Down
One bite and you’ll see why Wolf Down has developed a devoted following, drawing hungry fans to Centretown. Specializing in Berlin-style döner sandwiches, this casual spot does one thing — and does it really, really well. Choose from chicken, beef, or tofu and experience the street food that’s taken Germany by storm. Served in soft, warm flatbread and topped with crisp veggies and bold sauces, these döners hit the sweet spot between hearty and handheld.
La Bottega Nicastro
A mainstay of the ByWard Market, La Bottega Nicastro is part gourmet grocer, part deli paradise. Venture to the back counter for fresh Italian sandwiches stacked with flavour. Round off the meal with a tiramisu and enjoy a picnic-style meal by the iconic Ottawa letters.
Thailicious Food Truck
Located in Stittsville, Thailicious is a top-tier food truck delivering quality Thai cuisine with speed and care. Their pad thai, drunken noodles and spring rolls are consistently praised for taste and portion size. Friendly, efficient service ensures a smooth experience for diners seeking authentic Thai dishes outside the downtown core.
