Discover Ottawa's 6 Best Food Courts for Every Palate

When exploring the vibrant culinary landscape of Ottawa, food courts offer an unparalleled convenience, variety, and a taste of the city's diverse dining options. Whether you're seeking a quick bite during a busy workday, a convenient spot for family meals, or a place to sample different cuisines, Ottawa's food courts provide excellent choices. This list highlights some of the most notable food courts in Ottawa, from bustling downtown hubs to convenient university and recreational center spots, ensuring there's a perfect place for every craving.

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1. Queen St. Fare

A dynamic downtown food court experience with a focus on quality and flavour.

Queen St. Fare offers a lively atmosphere in the heart of Ottawa, making it a fantastic destination for diverse and delicious dishes. Customers consistently rave about the quality of the chicken, particularly the "Cluckin' Hot Hanley sandwich," noted for its crispiness and impressive spice level, often praised for being genuinely spicy unlike other fast-food alternatives. Many enjoy the "Come Back sauce" and find the chicken tenders "exquisitely seasoned," making it a go-to for those seeking top delicious chicken options among food courts in Ottawa.

  • Rating: 4.4 (1,090 google maps)
  • Address: 170 Queen St, Ottawa
  • Phone: +1 613-782-3885
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Known for its standout chicken sandwiches and crispy tenders, often accompanied by sides like fries and coleslaw.

Image Queen St. Fare Food courts in Ottawa

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2. Ottawa International Airport

Your gateway to convenient and quality dining before or after your flight.

As a major transportation hub, Ottawa International Airport offers a surprisingly pleasant and efficient travel experience, including several excellent places to eat. Visitors often commend the airport for being clean, modern, and easy to navigate. While primarily an airport, its various dining establishments collectively form a substantial food court experience, providing a range of good food options that make waiting for a flight or arriving in the city much more enjoyable. It's a convenient spot for travelers looking for delicious dishes on the go.

  • Rating: 4.2 (4,306 google maps)
  • Address: 1000 Airport Pkwy Private, Ottawa
  • Phone: +1 613-248-2000
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: A selection of cafes and restaurants offering a variety of choices suitable for travelers.

Image Ottawa International Airport Food courts in Ottawa

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3. uOttawa Dining Hall

A campus culinary hub offering diverse options for students and visitors alike.

The uOttawa Dining Hall, located within the Jock-Turcot University Centre, provides a substantial and convenient food court experience for students and the wider public. Patrons appreciate the variety of food that changes daily, all cooked by chefs, offering a buffet-style approach that can be a lifesaver for busy individuals. Despite mixed reviews on consistency, many find it to be a good value for an all-you-can-eat experience, with highlights often including the pasta bar and desserts. It's an excellent choice for a filling and varied meal among the food courts in Ottawa.

  • Rating: 3.5 (253 google maps)
  • Address: 85 University Private, Ottawa
  • Phone: +1 613-562-5800 ext. 2075
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: All-you-can-eat buffet with daily rotating dishes, including pasta bar, hot entrees, and salad bar.

Image uOttawa Dining Hall Food courts in Ottawa

4. SITE Food Court

A convenient campus spot with student-friendly choices for a quick meal.

Situated at the University of Ottawa's SITE building, this food court serves as a practical option for students and staff. While the selection might be seen as limited by some, popular choices like the burrito bowls are consistently praised for being a good value, especially for those on a student budget. The presence of well-known establishments like Tim Hortons and Quesada also adds to its appeal, providing familiar and quick delicious options. It's a key place to eat on campus for a fast and satisfying meal.

  • Rating: 3.3 (58 google maps)
  • Address: 800 King Edward Ave, Ottawa
  • Phone: +1 613-562-5800 ext. 2385
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Burrito bowls, Tim Hortons items, Quesada, and other hot food assortments.

Image SITE Food Court Food courts in Ottawa

5. Walter Baker Sports Centre

A clean and welcoming sports centre offering convenient food options.

More than just a recreational facility, the Walter Baker Sports Centre also features a food court area, making it a convenient stop for quick bites and refreshments. Visitors consistently praise the overall cleanliness and well-maintained nature of the facility. The food court offers a practical solution for families and athletes seeking a meal or snack while enjoying the centre's many amenities. It serves as a helpful amenity for those spending time at this active community hub, providing accessible food courts in Ottawa's Nepean area.

  • Rating: 4.3 (1,046 google maps)
  • Address: 100 Malvern Dr, Nepean
  • Phone: +1 613-580-2788
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Typical sports centre food court fare for quick meals and snacks.

Image Walter Baker Sports Centre Food courts in Ottawa

6. CF Rideau Centre

Ottawa's premier shopping destination with an expansive and diverse food court.

CF Rideau Centre is not only a major shopping mall but also home to one of the most popular and expansive food courts in Ottawa. Located downtown, this upscale and well-maintained mall offers a fantastic variety of top brand stores alongside numerous dining options. The food court is a bustling hub, perfect for shoppers, tourists, and locals alike to grab a meal. Its central location and wide array of choices make it an ideal spot to find delicious dishes, catering to almost any taste or craving.

  • Rating: 4.3 (18,376 google maps)
  • Address: 50 Rideau St, Ottawa
  • Phone: +1 613-236-6565
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Features a wide range of international and local fast-casual eateries, from Asian cuisine to classic American comfort food.

Image CF Rideau Centre Food courts in Ottawa

Whether you are looking for a quick and convenient lunch, a diverse range of culinary choices, or a place to satisfy varied tastes, the food courts above in Ottawa will meet your needs well. From bustling downtown centers to university and recreational facilities, these options provide easy access to delicious dishes. 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!