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.
Sparks Street
Sparks Street Ribfest is the city’s original and most popular BBQ festival. Held in the heart of downtown Ottawa, this week-long event turns the pedestrian-friendly Sparks Street into a paradise for meat lovers. With great eats, sunny patios, celebrity judging and live entertainment, it’s a must-attend for barbecue enthusiasts.
City Hall
Held at Ottawa City Hall, Capital Ribfest is another top-tier BBQ event. With a slightly smaller but equally impressive selection of vendors, this festival offers a more laid-back experience while still delivering on flavour. Enjoy delicious barbecue with craft beer and live music — a perfect summer outing.
Kanata
In Ottawa’s west end, Kanata Ribfest (May 23–25) at 400 March Road brings the best in slow-cooked meats to the suburbs. This family-friendly event features a variety of food vendors, games and entertainment, promising a fun day out for all ages.
Barrhaven
Every year, BBQ lovers in Ottawa south flock to Clarke Fields Park for Barrhaven Ribfest (May 15–19) to enjoy some of the best ribs, brisket and pulled pork in town. With a carnival-like atmosphere, including rides and activities for kids, it’s a great choice for families.
Orléans
In the east end of Ottawa at 255 Centrum Boulevard, Orléans Ribfest (Sept 12–14) brings together top Ribbers and BBQ chefs for a weekend of cold drinks, live entertainment and more than 50 kinds of poutine. It’s a great way to wrap up the summer with smoky savoury goodness.
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.
