From sizzlin’ summer Ribfests to year-round smokehouses, Canada’s capital is a go-to destination for flame-cooked feasts. Here’s a guide to some of the best BBQ in the city.
Ottawa Ribfest events
Every year, Ottawa hosts several free Ribfest events (just pay for what you eat), bringing in some of the best pitmasters in North America, each with their own champion-level spin on BBQ favourites like ribs, pulled pork, brisket and poutine — with some veggie options, too.
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Ottawa Ribfest on Sparks Street
Come hungry and leave happy. Indulge in mouth-watering ribs, tender chicken, and smoky BBQ layered in all the bold, saucy flavours you crave—served up… -
Barrhaven Ribfest and Poutine
Get sticky at Barrhaven Ribfest and Poutine! They're making it even better with more Ribs, more BBQ, more Poutine, a Kid Zone and more Live Music. -
Kanata Ribfest
Craft beer, delicious food, and live entertainment to kick off the barbecue season! -
Orléans Ribfest & Poutine
Feast on some of Ottawa's best ribs at Orleans Ribfest & Poutine! Mark your calendars and prepare to get saucy. -
Capital Ribfest
Get ready to dig in at the 10th annual Capital Ribfest, taking place at the RA Centre. Enjoy mouthwatering eats, live music, a bevvy bar, cook-off…
BBQ spots and smokehouses
If you can’t wait for Ribfest season, Ottawa has plenty of year-round BBQ joints serving up authentic smoked meats, sandwiches, sides and more. Here are some of the city’s top spots.
The SmoQue Shack
Ottawa’s premier BBQ since 2011, The SmoQue Shack operates out of all three locations of The Senate Tavern (Bank, Clarence and Wellington streets) as well as a new branded location at 73 Boulevard de la Gappe in Gatineau. Their commitment to slow-cooking and house-made sauces makes them a local favourite.
Lexington Smokehouse & Bar
Local, sustainable ingredients, big portions and even bigger flavour — Lexington in Ottawa’s trendy Westboro neighbourhood serves up high-quality, North Carolina-inspired BBQ with a focus on traditional smoking techniques. Their brisket and pulled pork are top-notch, and they’ve got plenty of gluten-free options, too.
Fitz’s
Fitz's Classic Grill BBQ Smokehouse is a hidden gem in Ottawa’s west-end neighbourhood of Nepean. From tasty half-racks to jambalaya to a wild array of sides and appetizers including potato skins, deep-fried pickles and tornado toast, Fitz’s is a slow-cooked crowd-pleaser. They also cater and have great breakfast options too.
Le BBQ Shop
Le BBQ Shop is worth the trip across the bridge to Gatineau. It has all the ingredients that go into a good barbecue joint: tasty meats, creative appetizers and delicious craft beers and cocktails. It also has a range of vegetarian options, including fried tofu, applewood smoked cauliflower and a homemade lentil burger.
Fatboys
A downtown Ottawa staple, Fatboys Southern Smokehouse in the ByWard Market specializes in southern-style BBQ, from St. Louis-cut ribs to Texas-style brisket. It’s a restaurant that prides itself on its hospitality, motorcycle décor and a bustling atmosphere complete with live music. Big groups will love the private, buffet-style speakeasy.
Daldongnae
While not traditional southern BBQ, Daldongnae is a fantastic spot for smoky, grilled flavours with a Korean twist. Their locations in the ByWard Market and on Somerset Street serve up authentic Korean-style grilled meats, including pork belly and short ribs, cooked tableside. Their pulled pork and beef brisket are among the best in the city.
Meatings BBQ
Meatings is primarily a caterer and wholesale supplier with a retail store selling meats, sides, sauces and jerky out of Ottawa’s east end. That said, you can sample their products at either Broadhead Brewery or The Puck Stop sports bar. Pro tip? Don’t overlook the smoked jackfruit.
African BBQ House
With three locations across the city, African BBQ House is a great option for charcoal-grilled meats at great prices. Stop in for their ten-dollar lunch special and enjoy a heaping plate of grilled chicken with a side of fries. They’re also known for their mouth-watering skewers — beef, chicken, lamb, goat or shrimp. Take your pick.
