16 Must-Try Middle Eastern Food Spots in Ottawa

Ottawa, a city celebrated for its diverse culinary scene, offers a vibrant array of Middle Eastern flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From savory kebabs and hearty shawarmas to delicate pastries and rich dips, the capital is home to a fantastic selection of authentic Middle Eastern restaurants and eateries. Whether you're seeking a casual lunch, a family dinner, or an exciting late-night bite, these top spots promise delicious dishes and memorable dining experiences. Explore our curated list of notable places, highlighting their unique offerings and what makes them stand out among the city's top delicious restaurants.

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1. Fairouz Cafe

Experience elevated Middle Eastern cuisine with a sophisticated flair.

Fairouz Cafe offers a truly memorable dining experience, with guests consistently praising its flavorful dishes and excellent presentation. Many appreciate the thoughtful culinary approach, from the popular dip trio to exquisite halloumi dishes. While some note menu limitations or strong spice levels, the inviting atmosphere and knowledgeable, friendly servers contribute to an overall delightful visit, perfect for special occasions or an enjoyable brunch in the Byward Market area.

  • Rating: 4.3 (1138 google maps)
  • Address: 15 Clarence St., Ottawa, ON K1N 5P9
  • Phone: +1 613-422-7700
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Signature dip trio, various halloumi dishes, and a meat platter featuring lamb, beef, and chicken with a variety of spreads and side dishes.

Image Fairouz Cafe Middle Eastern food

Read more: 13 Best Mediterranean Food Destinations in Ottawa

2. El Mazaj

An authentic Lebanese culinary and entertainment destination.

El Mazaj brings a taste of home to Ottawa with its authentic Lebanese cuisine, vibrant atmosphere, and exceptional hospitality. Diners rave about the delicious, unlimited mezze, including outstanding tabouli and fattoush, alongside well-prepared main courses. The lively ambiance, often featuring traditional music and belly dancers, makes it a perfect spot for celebrations, family events, or just a fun night out with truly fresh and flavorful Middle Eastern food.

  • Rating: 4.7 (995 google maps)
  • Address: 5307 Canotek Rd Unit 100, Ottawa, ON K1J 9M2
  • Phone: +1 613-741-3000
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Authentic Lebanese mezze, Makanek, and a wide selection of traditional and modern Middle Eastern dishes.

Image El Mazaj Middle Eastern food

3. Shawarma Palace

The grand experience of Ottawa's legendary shawarma.

Shawarma Palace is renowned for its generous portions, fresh ingredients, and incredibly flavorful Middle Eastern food. Customers consistently highlight the amazing garlic sauce and the quality of their chicken and beef shawarmas. This spacious and popular spot offers a comfortable dining experience, making it a go-to for delicious and affordable Lebanese cuisine, with fast and friendly service even during peak hours.

  • Rating: 4.2 (4907 google maps)
  • Address: 2440 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1V 8S1
  • Phone: +1 613-739-9533
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Signature shawarma wraps and platters (chicken, beef, falafel), with famous garlic sauce, hummus, and perfectly seasoned potatoes.

Image Shawarma Palace Middle Eastern food

Read more: 18 Must-Try Indian Food Gems in Ottawa for a Flavorful Journey

4. Ottawa Kabab

Juicy kebabs and authentic Middle Eastern flavors in a family-friendly setting.

Ottawa Kabab is celebrated for its consistently delicious and juicy kebabs, offering a true taste of Eastern cuisine. Customers appreciate the fresh, flavorful dishes, often noting the tender meat and authentic preparation. With friendly and accommodating staff, as well as both indoor and outdoor seating options, it's an ideal spot for big gatherings and families looking for a satisfying Middle Eastern meal.

  • Rating: 4.4 (913 google maps)
  • Address: 577 Gladstone Ave, Ottawa, ON K1R 5N6
  • Phone: +1 613-518-7434
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Mixed kebab sets (chicken, beef, lamb), homemade bread, hummus, garlic sauce, and specialties like fatteh and various pides.

Image Ottawa Kabab Middle Eastern food

5. Tirweka

A hidden gem offering authentic Iraqi and Lebanese breakfast and delights.

Tirweka is a beloved spot for its authentic Iraqi and Lebanese dishes, renowned for their superb flavors and impressive presentation. Diners praise the massive portions, flavorful foul, piping hot falafels, and especially the perfectly executed Kunafa. With a calm atmosphere, friendly staff, and fresh, carefully selected ingredients, it's a delightful place to enjoy a peaceful Middle Eastern breakfast or a hearty meal.

  • Rating: 4.5 (629 google maps)
  • Address: 473 Hazeldean Rd Unit 9, Ottawa, ON K2L 4B8
  • Phone: +1 613-836-1777
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Foul, falafel, shakshouka, meat pie, chicken rolls, and the must-try Kunafa.

Image Tirweka Middle Eastern food

Read more: 12 Best Italian Food in Ottawa You Can't Miss

6. BiBi’s | Hintonburg

Fresh, flavorful, and modern Middle Eastern dishes with excellent service.

BiBi’s in Hintonburg is celebrated for its delicious, fresh, and generously portioned Middle Eastern food, offering great value for money. Customers love their flavorful chicken bowls and falafel wraps, often highlighting the perfect seasoning. The bright, friendly spot with its cute and well-designed dining area makes it a fantastic choice for a quick and satisfying meal, with welcoming staff and excellent catering services.

  • Rating: 4.5 (248 google maps)
  • Address: 1087 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2Y4
  • Phone: +1 613-422-2467
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Chicken bowls (Chicken Baharat), falafel wraps, za'atar fries, and various halal, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Image BiBi’s | Hintonburg Middle Eastern food

7. Aladdin Bakery (St. Laurent Blvd)

An Ottawa institution for authentic, affordable Lebanese pies.

Aladdin Bakery on St. Laurent Blvd is a true hidden gem, cherished for nearly 30 years for its exceptional and authentic Lebanese pies. Customers rave about the light, delicious dough and the flavorful fillings, especially the zaatar, meat, and cheese pies. This busy, cash-only spot offers quick, efficient service and is a local favorite for fresh, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying Middle Eastern baked goods, perfect for a quick bite or takeout.

  • Rating: 4.6 (1452 google maps)
  • Address: 1020 St. Laurent Blvd #7, Ottawa, ON K1K 4S2
  • Phone: +1 613-742-4244
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Mana'eesh (Lebanese pies) with various toppings like zaatar, meat, cheese, and sujuk; fresh baked goods.

Image Aladdin Bakery Middle Eastern food

8. Aladdin Bakery (Carling Ave)

The reliable spot for classic Lebanese meat and cheese pies.

The Carling Avenue location of Aladdin Bakery upholds the tradition of delicious, freshly baked Lebanese pies that have satisfied Ottawa residents for years. Known for their meat and cheese pies, as well as spinach triangles and zaatar options, this bakery consistently delivers on flavor and value. It's a convenient spot for an inexpensive and satisfying lunch, offering quick service and a range of tasty Middle Eastern treats.

  • Rating: 4.3 (324 google maps)
  • Address: 1801 Carling Ave, Ottawa, ON K2A 1C9
  • Phone: +1 613-728-5331
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Meat and cheese pies, zaatar pies, spinach triangles, and a selection of Middle Eastern baked goods.

Image Aladdin Bakery Middle Eastern food

9. Cedar Valley Restaurant

A long-standing Orleans favorite for fresh and authentic Lebanese food.

Cedar Valley Restaurant has been a staple in Orleans for over 25 years, delighting customers with its consistently delicious and fresh Lebanese cuisine. Patrons rave about the fantastic garlic sauce, perfectly cooked chicken and beef shawarma, and the generous portions. This family-owned business offers welcoming hospitality and a commitment to quality that makes it a top choice for authentic Middle Eastern food in Ottawa's east end.

  • Rating: 4.3 (236 google maps)
  • Address: 1615 Orléans Blvd, Orléans, ON K1C 7E2
  • Phone: +1 613-590-0372
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Chicken and beef shawarma wraps and platters, with fresh salads, rice, and a distinctive garlic sauce.

Image Cedar Valley Restaurant Middle Eastern food

10. Shawarma House

Kanata's go-to for incredibly tasty and generous shawarma.

Shawarma House in Kanata is highly praised for its consistently amazing food, generous portions, and friendly staff. Customers frequently highlight the juicy meat, fresh ingredients, and the overall excellent value. Whether you opt for a large platter or a satisfying sandwich, this spot is known for its high-quality Middle Eastern food that often provides multiple meals, making it a local favorite.

  • Rating: 4.4 (774 google maps)
  • Address: 836 March Rd, Kanata, ON K2W 0A5
  • Phone: +1 613-366-4000
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Mixed platters, large sandwiches, falafel, and poutine options, all with fresh veggies and flavorful sauces.

Image Shawarma House Middle Eastern food

11. Little Turkish Village Dining Lounge

A charming spot for authentic Turkish cuisine and delightful flavors.

Little Turkish Village Dining Lounge offers a refreshing change from typical fast food, providing a charming and delightful dining experience with authentic Turkish food. Guests consistently praise the tender, well-seasoned meats, flavorful rice, and crispy potatoes, often highlighting the excellent value of their dinner for two options. With attentive service and a cozy ambiance, it's a great place to savor delicious Turkish delights in Orleans.

  • Rating: 4.0 (468 google maps)
  • Address: 2095 St Joseph Blvd, Orléans, ON K1C 1C5
  • Phone: +1 613-824-5557
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Turkish combination platters, lamb shank, various kebabs (chicken, beef, lamb), and a delightful seafood plate.

Image Little Turkish Village Dining Lounge Middle Eastern food

12. Shawarma Chef

Orleans's hidden gem for exceptional and authentic shawarma.

Shawarma Chef stands out as one of the best shawarma spots in Ottawa, particularly in Orleans, with many considering it a new hidden gem. Customers consistently praise the amazing taste and consistency of their chicken and beef shawarmas, especially noting the tender, juicy, and flavorful meat. The clean establishment, fresh veggies, and very friendly staff, combined with unique menu items like pomegranate sauce and sesame-brushed bread, make for an elevated Middle Eastern food experience.

  • Rating: 4.7 (486 google maps)
  • Address: 2012 Tenth Line Rd, Orléans, ON K4A 3W3
  • Phone: +1 613-834-4700
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Chicken and beef shawarma saj, family platters with hummus, garlic sauce, and garlic potatoes, and unique loaded fries.

Image Shawarma Chef Middle Eastern food

13. Shawarma AL Mouna

Generous portions and exceptional flavors define this top shawarma spot.

Shawarma AL Mouna is highly acclaimed for its exceptional quality, fresh ingredients, and unbelievably generous portions, making it one of Ottawa's best Middle Eastern food destinations. Diners rave about the perfectly grilled, juicy mixed shawarma platters, noting the super soft and tasty rice and rich garlic sauce. The friendly and accommodating staff ensure a fantastic customer service experience, even offering samples of delicious lentil soup.

  • Rating: 4.9 (753 google maps)
  • Address: 1266 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3A5
  • Phone: +1 613-725-3030
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Mixed shawarma platters (beef and chicken), falafel sandwiches, fresh salads, garlic potatoes, and lentil soup.

Image Shawarma AL Mouna Middle Eastern food

14. Foul w Hummus

Your authentic gateway to a delicious Lebanese breakfast experience.

Foul w Hummus is quickly becoming a beloved spot for authentic Middle Eastern breakfast in Ottawa. Customers consistently praise the super delicious and smooth hummus, flavorful foul, and crispy falafel. With fresh ingredients, a clean and beautifully decorated space, and excellent customer service, this place truly offers a taste of home on a plate, making it an ideal choice for a hearty and satisfying start to your day.

  • Rating: 4.7 (75 google maps)
  • Address: 1598 Walkley Rd, Ottawa, ON K1V 6P4
  • Phone: +1 613-521-2122
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Foul, hummus (with or without meat and pine nuts), falafel, fatteh, shakshouka, and a variety of fresh vegetables and traditional breakfast options.

Image Foul w Hummus Middle Eastern food

15. Di Noodle

A top-tier destination for delicious and authentic Asian noodle dishes.

While known primarily as a fantastic Pho restaurant, Di Noodle is a highly-rated eatery in Ottawa that stands out for its consistent quality and generous portions. Patrons frequently commend the delicious and fresh food, including hearty Pho, flavorful Pad Thai, and crunchy noodle dishes. With a clean and inviting atmosphere and friendly, attentive staff, it’s a popular spot for satisfying Asian cravings.

  • Rating: 4.3 (793 google maps)
  • Address: 2430 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1V 0T7
  • Phone: +1 613-249-9963
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Various Pho soups, Pad Thai, crunchy noodles with seafood, vermicelli bowls, and bubble tea.

Image Di Noodle Middle Eastern food

16. Phynicia Restaurant

Experience true Lebanese comfort food in a cozy, authentic setting.

Phynicia Restaurant is hailed as a true gem in Barrhaven, offering an exceptional dining experience with authentic Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine. Guests are consistently impressed by the spectacular dishes, including an "insane" fatteh, and the delicious oven-fresh pita. The restaurant provides incredibly kind, welcoming, and attentive service within a cozy, beautifully decorated ambiance that makes you feel right at home, perfect for brunch or dinner.

  • Rating: 4.7 (1022 google maps)
  • Address: 605 Longfields Dr Unit: 9, Nepean, ON K2J 6T7
  • Phone: +1 613-440-3050
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Fatteh with beef and pine nuts, various oven-baked pies (cheese, meat), fried halloumi cheese, and traditional Lebanese breakfast options.

Image Phynicia Restaurant Middle Eastern food

Conclusion

Ottawa's vibrant culinary landscape truly shines with its incredible array of Middle Eastern food options. Whether you're craving a rich and authentic Lebanese breakfast, a hearty Turkish kebab, or a satisfying shawarma, the restaurants listed above offer diverse and delicious experiences that will meet your needs. From prominent, long-standing establishments to hidden gems, each spot brings its unique flavor and charm to the city's food scene. 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!