The 14 Best Korean Food Spots in Ottawa You Can't Miss
Ottawa's vibrant culinary scene offers a fantastic array of Korean food, from sizzling BBQ joints to cozy spots serving heartwarming stews and crispy fried chicken. If you're craving authentic Korean cuisine or looking for your next favorite delicious dish, this guide is for you. We've handpicked 14 top-rated Korean restaurants across the city, promising a delightful culinary journey with every bite. Discover prominent addresses, special services, and standout menu items that make each place unique.
Table of Contents
- Maroo
- Daldongnae Korean BBQ - Somerset
- In's Kitchen
- Table SODAM
- Korean House Restaurant
- K, LET'S EAT
- 주막오타와 한식당_치킨 -JUMAK KOREAN KITCHEN AND PUB
- Alirang Korean Restaurant (Rideau)
- Alirang Korean Restaurant (Merivale)
- Mu Goong Hwa Garden
- Koreana Restaurant
- Food Mood: Korean & Japanese Kitchen
- Pelicana Chicken (Ottawa)
1. Maroo
Where Korean Fried Chicken dreams come true, with flavors that truly hit the spot!
Maroo stands out as a fantastic spot for a delicious Korean meal, consistently impressing diners with its fresh and very tasty dishes. Customers rave about the bulgogi and chicken sandwiches, with the bulgogi sandwich often described as "off the charts delicious." Their boneless Korean fried chicken is highly recommended for its crispy texture and juicy interior, making it a must-try for fried chicken enthusiasts looking for top-notch Korean food in Ottawa. The generous portions and flavorful dishes ensure a satisfying experience every time.
- Rating: 4.7 (503 google maps)
- Address: 281 Kent St, Ottawa
- Phone: +1 613-234-2945
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Don't miss their amazing bulgogi bowls, kimchi fried rice, and the highly praised Korean fried chicken with its unique, satisfying crunch.
2. Daldongnae Korean BBQ - Somerset
Experience authentic Korean BBQ in a vibrant atmosphere with endless delicious sides.
Daldongnae Korean BBQ on Somerset offers a fantastic and unique dining experience, perfect for gathering with friends. Customers consistently praise the high quality of their beef, especially the unmarinated cuts, and the truly immaculate and unlimited side dishes like fresh kimchi and unexpected acorn jelly. The staff are known for being friendly, helpful, and attentive, even during busy periods, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere as you grill your own delicious Korean BBQ.
- Rating: 4.6 (1.052 google maps)
- Address: 610 Somerset St W 1st floor, Ottawa
- Phone: +1 613-232-8880
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Must-try items include the raw beef tartare, various cuts of beef and pork for grilling, and their delightful kimchi stew. Unlimited side dishes are a highlight.
3. In's Kitchen
Authentic Korean flavors crafted with passion, making you feel right at home.
In's Kitchen is celebrated for its delightfully savory, generous, and filling authentic Korean food, earning high praise from both locals and Korean visitors alike. Customers consistently highlight the deliciousness of dishes like yukgaejang (spicy beef soup), seolleongtang, gamjatang, spicy pork, and bulgogi, noting their authentic taste. The warm and friendly service, coupled with a cozy and clean atmosphere, makes In's Kitchen a standout choice for genuine Korean food near the University of Ottawa.
- Rating: 4.8 (427 google maps)
- Address: 1-65 Templeton St, Ottawa
- Phone: +1 613-233-1001
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Highly recommended dishes include the spicy pork (제육볶음) for its authentic Seoul taste, flavorful soups like yukgaejang, and the classic bibimbap with tofu options. They also offer halal options.
4. Table SODAM
Your go-to for hearty Korean comfort food with unmatched friendly service.
Table SODAM is widely regarded as one of the best Korean restaurants in Ottawa, offering an unforgettable dining experience with authentic flavors and generous portions. Diners consistently rave about the delicious bulgogi, describing the beef as tender and flavorful with perfectly balanced sauce. The service is frequently highlighted as attentive, hospitable, and top-notch, making every visit a pleasant one. Even with a small, often busy space, the quality of Korean food and care from the staff make the wait worthwhile.
- Rating: 4.5 (1.086 google maps)
- Address: 1200 Bank St, Ottawa
- Phone: +1 613-421-1229
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Popular items include the mouthwatering bulgogi, crispy fried chicken with various sauces, and their flavorful Kimchi fried rice, often praised for its "mom flavour."
5. Korean House Restaurant
Sizzling Korean BBQ and savory mains in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Korean House Restaurant offers a delightful experience for those seeking Korean BBQ and delicious traditional mains. Customers consistently enjoy the sizzling stone bowl bibimbap, praising its flavorful profile and the satisfying crispy rice. The all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ option provides great value with well-seasoned meats and efficient service. Despite being a small eatery, the fast service and flavorful dishes make it a highly recommended spot for Korean food lovers in Ottawa.
- Rating: 4.5 (939 google maps)
- Address: 785 Somerset St W, Ottawa
- Phone: +1 613-237-0808
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Explore their popular bibimbap, a variety of Korean BBQ meats for grilling, and their excellent seafood pancake (Haemool-pajeon) which comes with delicious side dishes.
6. K, LET'S EAT
A hidden gem on Preston Street, serving up indescribably delicious Korean comfort food.
K, LET'S EAT is lauded as an exceptional Korean restaurant, known for its "indescribable, unbelievable, profoundly delectable" food. Diners particularly praise the Jajangmyeon and Tangsuyuk for their authentic taste, as well as the incredibly crispy and flavorful fried chicken. This cozy spot on Preston Street might have limited seating, making it a great option for takeout, but the quality of its Korean dishes, friendly service, and reasonable prices make it a must-visit for anyone seeking fantastic Korean food in Ottawa.
- Rating: 4.7 (283 google maps)
- Address: 449 Preston St, Ottawa
- Phone: +1 613-236-8158
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Don't miss their highly praised Jajangmyeon, crispy fried chicken (especially the Snowy Cheese or Sweet Chili variations), and the savory XO crab fried rice.
7. 주막오타와 한식당_치킨 -JUMAK KOREAN KITCHEN AND PUB
A cozy Glebe spot offering an extensive menu of delicious and authentic Korean dishes.
JUMAK KOREAN KITCHEN AND PUB offers a truly impressive Korean dining experience with a vast and varied menu of authentic Korean dishes. Customers praise the extensive selection of side dishes, noting their authentic and perfectly tangy kimchi. The fried chicken is consistently highlighted as delicious, crispy on the outside, and super tender and juicy inside. With a calm and cozy atmosphere, super clean facilities, and quick, friendly service, it's an ideal spot for a date or a relaxed meal with friends enjoying fantastic Korean food.
- Rating: 4.6 (203 google maps)
- Address: 151c Second Ave, Ottawa
- Phone: +1 613-230-5586
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Be sure to try their rich and flavorful seafood Sundubu Stew, the juicy chicken combo, and the highly praised Tteokbokki. Their unique strawberry soju cocktail is also a hit.
8. Alirang Korean Restaurant (Rideau)
A beloved Ottawa staple for authentic Korean comfort food with generous portions.
Alirang Korean Restaurant on Rideau Street is an "OG Korean spot" that has consistently delivered delicious, authentic Korean food for years. Diners rave about their Gamjatang (pork bone soup), often calling it their number one favorite, and praise the flavorful bulgogi and kimchi jjigae. Despite sometimes experiencing longer wait times due to its popularity, the food's amazing and authentic taste, generous portions, and friendly service make it well worth the wait for a truly satisfying Korean meal in Ottawa.
- Rating: 4.4 (959 google maps)
- Address: 134 Nelson St, Ottawa
- Phone: +1 613-789-2223
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Highly recommended are the Gamjatang (pork bone soup), Dukbaegi, and short ribs. Their tteokbokki is also a popular starter, and bulgogi beef bibimbap is a delicious choice.
9. Alirang Korean Restaurant (Merivale)
Reliable Korean delights with a focus on generous servings and quick service.
Alirang Korean Restaurant on Merivale Road maintains its reputation as a solid choice for Korean food in Ottawa. Reviewers consistently praise the generous portions and tasty dishes, with favorites including their seafood pancake, bulgogi, bibimbap, and soondubu. The service is noted for being quick and friendly, ensuring a pleasant dining experience even during busy times. While some note a slight Chinese influence in their Korean dishes, it remains a beloved spot for hearty meals and delicious side dishes.
- Rating: 4.1 (823 google maps)
- Address: 1485 Merivale Rd, Nepean
- Phone: +1 613-695-5188
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Recommended dishes include their delicious Gamjatang (pork and potato soup), flavorful Bulgogi Bibimbap, and the tasty Tangsuyuk. Don't forget to enjoy their refillable side dishes like kimchi and caramelized potatoes.
10. Mu Goong Hwa Garden
Home-style Korean comfort food, a long-standing favorite for classic dishes.
Mu Goong Hwa Garden has been a go-to spot for authentic Korean food in Ottawa for over a decade, with many loyal customers returning for their consistent quality. Patrons rave about the excellent quality and generous portions of classic Korean staples like bulgogi, grilled ribs, beef soon dubu jiggae, and mandu jiggae. The family-favourite dolsot bibimbap and the delicious spicy kimchi soup are also highly praised. While sometimes understaffed due to popularity, the friendly and attentive service, coupled with fresh and tasty food, ensures a satisfying dining experience.
- Rating: 3.9 (786 google maps)
- Address: 376 Rideau St, Ottawa
- Phone: +1 613-860-8300
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Highly recommended dishes include the beef soon dubu jiggae, mandu jiggae, dolsot bibimbap, and the mackerel meal. Their seafood pancake is also noted as amazing.
11. Koreana Restaurant
A vibrant hub in Chinatown for authentic Korean BBQ and sushi delights.
Koreana Restaurant in Ottawa's Chinatown offers a dynamic dining experience, especially for those craving Korean BBQ. The all-you-can-eat BBQ option is highly valued for its quality marinated meats, including beef and chicken, which guests cook themselves for a fun and interactive meal. Beyond BBQ, their à la carte menu features authentic and flavorful Korean dishes like bibimbap, praised for its fresh ingredients and rich taste. The quick and efficient service, combined with a welcoming atmosphere, makes Koreana a popular choice for satisfying Korean food cravings.
- Rating: 4.0 (1.034 google maps)
- Address: 711 Somerset St W, Ottawa
- Phone: +1 613-230-7111
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Enjoy their all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ featuring marinated beef and chicken. Don't miss their bibimbap served in a hot stone bowl, and surprisingly, their quality sushi and sashimi.
12. Kochu
Fresh, flavorful Korean and Japanese fusion, a hidden culinary treasure on Preston.
Kochu offers a delightful fusion of Korean and Japanese cuisine, making it a "hidden gem" in Ottawa. Diners praise the incredibly fresh and delicious food, with highlights including their "torched salmon sushi" and crispy kimchi jeon. The warm and friendly staff contribute to a very pleasant dining experience. This small but mighty restaurant provides perfect portions and very reasonable prices, making it a highly recommended spot for those seeking both amazing sushi and authentic Korean food.
- Rating: 4.5 (458 google maps)
- Address: 266 Preston St, Ottawa
- Phone: +1 613-236-0000
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Explore their unique sushi rolls like torched salmon, delicious kimchi jeon, and flavorful sweet & spicy Korean chicken. Their bibimbap bowls in cast iron pans are also a must-try.
13. Food Mood: Korean & Japanese Kitchen
A tiny spot with massive flavors, offering comforting Korean and Japanese dishes.
Food Mood: Korean & Japanese Kitchen, despite its small size, is hailed as a "hidden gem" and one of the most tasteful quick-service Korean restaurants in Ottawa. This family-run establishment receives high praise for its fresh, flavorful, and perfectly portioned dishes like K-bites (especially the honey and soy sauce chicken wings), delicious beef bibimbap, and authentic kimbap. The friendly owners and the comforting, homemade feel of the food make it a beloved spot for a quick and satisfying Korean meal on Rideau Street.
- Rating: 4.4 (503 google maps)
- Address: 178B Rideau St, Ottawa
- Phone: +1 613-789-0009
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: Highly recommended dishes include the beef bibimbap with its perfect blend of flavors, the K-bites (especially the honey and soy chicken wings), and the classic chicken katsu.
14. Pelicana Chicken (Ottawa)
The most authentic Korean fried chicken experience Ottawa has to offer.
Pelicana Chicken in Ottawa is a must-try for any Korean fried chicken aficionado, consistently praised as the "best Korean fried chicken in Ottawa" and the "most authentic." Customers are delighted by the perfect crispiness of the exterior and the juicy, flavorful chicken inside, especially recommending the original, sweet and spicy, and green onion variations. Located inside OK Mart, it's primarily a takeout spot, but the high quality, fresh ingredients, and friendly staff make it worth the visit for top-tier Korean fried chicken.
- Rating: 4.9 (73 google maps)
- Address: 1508 Merivale Rd #17, Ottawa
- Phone: +1 613-430-4658
- Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
- Menu: You absolutely have to try their signature mild, original, and soy garlic bone-in fried chicken. Don't forget the surprisingly tasty fried rice cakes included with orders!
Whether you are looking for sizzling Korean BBQ, comforting stews, or the crispiest Korean fried chicken, these 14 options in Ottawa will surely meet your needs. From prominent addresses like Somerset Street and Rideau Street to hidden gems, each restaurant offers a unique slice of Korean culinary tradition. Choose a place that suits your preferences and needs, and don't forget to share your experience with us in the comments section below this article!