A retro-chic scoop shop bringing small-batch ice cream and delicacies to their flagship location in Hintonburg and in their food truck at local events and festivals.
Ottawa’s best restaurants and culinary experiences
Ottawa’s modern culinary scene is a foodie’s paradise, offering a vibrant mix of dining, restaurants, and food shops that celebrate the city’s diverse flavours. From iconic BeaverTails and butter tarts to indulgent poutine and world-class shawarma, Ottawa’s downtown is packed with tasty fare that reflects both classic Canadian cuisine and global influences.
Step into the historic ByWard Market neighbourhood, home to over 100 restaurants, cafes, and food shops, and discover why Ottawa’s best restaurants are drawing food lovers from near and far. Savour global flavours at high-end and casual spots, join guided culinary tours, or explore local farmers’ markets featuring products from 1000+ farms in the national capital region.
With award-winning chefs, innovative menus, and unique food experiences, Ottawa invites visitors to embark on an unforgettable culinary journey.
Foodie favourites in Ottawa
Shawarma Palace
Ottawa’s beloved shawarma institution, Shawarma Palace is a top pick for 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.
Wolf Down
Stop by Wolf Down for Berlin-style döner sandwiches: soft, warm flatbread, your choice of protein and topped with crisp veggies and bold sauces, these döners hit the sweet spot between hearty and handheld.
Ad Mare Seafood Truck
Ad Mare reels in fans with its ocean-fresh seafood, cooked to order from their food truck! The menu changes daily, but regulars rave about the golden fish and chips, flavour-packed tacos and buttery lobster roll.
Paninaro
Paninaro delivers a refined and comforting take on Italian paninis, with bright flavours and elevated ingredients. The porchetta sandwich and the pistachio cream with mortadella combo are standout favourites.
Explore Ottawa’s restaurants
Eggspectation
Brunch and breakfast spot with creative morning favourites.
Arôme
Dine in style with a spectacular view of Lac de la Carrière at Hôtel-Casino du Lac Leamy.
Le Moulin de Provence (kd)
Bakery, patisserie, cafe, and bistro serving a wide selection of gourmet food and drink in the heart of Ottawa's business and tourist district.
Banco Bistro
Located on the third level of the Casino Lac-Leamy, this outstanding restaurant offers an à la carte menu bursting with flavours and surprising choices.
Zak's Diner
ZAK'S DINER - Locally World Famous, and an Ottawa Institution, Zak's has been serving classic Canadian comfort food since 1986. Open 24/7!
Tavern on the Falls
Picturesque outdoor dining experience next to the Rideau Falls serving gourmet snacks and refreshments in a family-friendly setting.
Dive into Ottawa’s culinary scene with unique food experiences
C'est Bon Ottawa
Join cooking classes to experience the many flavours of Canada’s capital region and learn about local food producers and artisans.
Brew Donkey Tours
Meet brewers and sample lots of craft beers on a full-day or half-day tour of Ottawa-area breweries, brewpubs and bars with Brew Donkey Tours.
Thursty Pedaler
Help pedal a 15-person bike to three pubs and craft breweries in Ottawa’s vibrant Glebe neighbourhood on a one-of-a-kind tour. Get your heart pumping and enjoy a tasty beverage at each stop!
Signatures Restaurant at Le Cordon Bleu
Located in Sandy Hill in the heart of Ottawa, Signatures Restaurant is a fine dining restaurant that combines French contemporary, innovative cuisine with a modern, refined atmosphere.
Stonehouse Vineyard
Discover handcrafted wines, scenic vineyard views and relaxed tastings in a charming countryside setting just outside Ottawa.
Ottawa Food Tours
Embark on an Ottawa Food Tour to experience the many flavours of Canada’s capital region and learn about local food producers and artisans.
La Vida Local Food + Wine Tours
La Vida Local is an Ottawa-based “epicurean adventure” company that offers guided food and wine bus tours across rural Eastern Ontario and West Quebec.
More to explore in Ottawa's culinary scene
Great patios by Ottawa neighbourhood
Ottawa's patio season is unmatched - check out this guide to the best restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs with outdoor spaces.
8 of the best cafés in Ottawa, Canada
There’s no shortage of cool cafés in Ottawa, each with its own flavour, story, and loyal following.
Family-friendly restaurants and places to eat in Ottawa
Discover Ottawa restaurants, diners, pubs and self-serve options the whole family will love.
Where to eat along the Rideau Canal in the Ottawa area
The Rideau Canal is the perfect setting for memorable dining experiences throughout the year.
The best shawarma places in Ottawa
Check out a local-approved guide to Ottawa's diverse selection of shawarma spots.
Discover locals' picks for the best restaurants
Taste OttawaTaste Ottawa is a city-wide food and culinary experience brand designed to showcase the best of Ottawa’s restaurants, cafés, bakeries, food artisans, and neighbourhood dining culture.-
Capital Eats
The best kept secret foodies use to discover the best restaurants, drinks and food events in Ottawa and the Capital Region.
Foodie fun to spice up your trip to Ottawa
Le Petit Chef
Le Petit Chef brings its imaginative dining experience to Ottawa, blending 3D projection with creative gastronomy. Guests enjoy a playful animated…
Ottawa On Tap Beerfest
Ottawa On Tap Beerfest, presented by Bells Corners BIA, brings together a vibrant selection of breweries alongside a lively atmosphere of…
Multifaith Housing Initiative's Community BBQ
Celebrate community and connection at a neighbourhood gathering that brings residents together through food, storytelling, and shared experiences…
Beekeeping Experience
Get a behind-the-scenes look at Gibbs Honey during a guided tour of the home apiary, honey house, hives, and wildflower meadows. Led by an expert…
Dinner in the Pasture
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of dining in a scenic farm setting surrounded by open fields and natural beauty. This immersive culinary experience…
Asstin Powers 2 Pop Art Party
Asstin Powers 2 Pop Art Party brings a vibrant and immersive cabaret experience to Ottawa, inspired by the bold style and playful spirit of 1960s pop…
