17 Must-Visit Restaurants in Ottawa for Every Taste

Ottawa boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, offering an incredible array of dining experiences for every palate. From authentic international flavors to upscale fine dining and beloved local favorites, the city's restaurants in Ottawa promise memorable meals. In this article, we will introduce 17 top restaurants in Ottawa that you cannot miss, featuring prominent addresses known for their delicious dishes, unique ambiance, and exceptional service. Whether you're seeking a casual bite or a gourmet adventure, these Ottawa eateries are sure to delight.

Table of Contents

• Paper Tiger Noodle Bar
• Beckta Dining & Wine
• Rabbit Hole
• Coconut Lagoon
• North & Navy
• Cantina Gia
• Joe's Italian Kitchen - Preston
• A La Istanbul Turkish Cuisine
• Shawarma Palace (Bank St)
• DreamLand Cafe
• Starling Restaurant and Bar
• Shawarma Palace (Rideau St)
• Shawarma Palace (Innes Rd)
• Zak's Diner (Byward Market Square)
• Zak's Diner Elgin St
• Zak's Diner Kanata
• Zak's Diner Westboro
• Erling's Variety
• JOEY Lansdowne
• JOEY Rideau
• Trio Bistro and Lounge
• Arlo Wine & Restaurant
• Restaurant e18hteen
• Le Poisson Bleu
• Union Local 613

1. Paper Tiger Noodle Bar

Where bold Asian flavors meet cozy Ottawa dining.

Paper Tiger Noodle Bar stands out among the top restaurants in Ottawa, offering a noodle bar sensation that lives up to its hype. Customers consistently rave about the "amazing food," highlighting unique and flavorful dishes like the "best Brussel sprouts" and the "perfect spring noodle dish." The rich and flavorful broth in their ramen receives high praise, as does the well-flavored brisket in their Vietnamese Garlic Noodles. Beyond the delicious dishes, the restaurant is celebrated for its "10/10 staff and vibes" and excellent service, making it a must-return spot for many.

• Rating: 4.5 (328 google maps)
• Address: 1091 Bank St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-521-2125
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Signature dishes include Brussel sprouts, spring funnel udon, veggie ramen, Vietnamese Garlic Noodles, scallop ceviche, mushroom dan dan, and braised brisket noodles.

Read more: The 14 Best Pasta Restaurants in Ottawa You Can't Miss

2. Beckta Dining & Wine

An unparalleled fine dining journey in Ottawa.

Beckta Dining & Wine is consistently lauded as an exceptional fine dining experience and one of the best restaurants in Ottawa. Guests are thoroughly impressed from start to finish, with many calling their culinary journey "nothing short of spectacular." The menu, though concise, offers something for everyone, featuring dishes prepared with locally procured ingredients directly from farms. With an extensive wine list perfectly paired with each dish, Beckta offers impeccable service and a beautifully designed space that elevates any meal into a truly memorable event.

• Rating: 4.6 (992 google maps)
• Address: 150 Elgin St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-238-7063
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Expect exquisite tasting menus, pan-seared halloumi, ricotta gnudi, cornish hen, and a carefully curated wine selection.

3. Rabbit Hole

Step into a world of flavor and cool vibes.

Rabbit Hole is a unique and highly recommended spot among restaurants in Ottawa, known for its "cool vibes" and intriguing atmosphere, especially its cozy basement level. This place truly "nails vibe, flavor, and experience all at once." Diners praise the friendly and quick service, coupled with expertly crafted cocktails. Must-try dishes include the "transcendental" pork belly, delicious margarita pizzas with perfect crispy crusts, and super flavorful, perfectly cooked steak. It's a fantastic spot for a date night or simply enjoying a few drinks with great food.

• Rating: 4.3 (1224 google maps)
• Address: 208 Sparks St., Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-695-0500
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Popular items include pork belly, gnocchi, wagyu burger, margarita pizza, oysters, truffle fries, and custom cocktails.

Read more: 11 Must-Try Dim Sum Spots in Ottawa for Authentic Flavors

4. Coconut Lagoon

Authentic South Indian flavors with a modern Ottawa twist.

Coconut Lagoon is a celebrated modern Indian restaurant in Ottawa, praised for delivering "authentic Kerala style Indian food" with "unexpected taste combinations and rich flavors." Guests consistently highlight the deliciousness and beautiful presentation of their dishes, from incredible chicken to flavorful lamb and mushroom mains. The ambiance is described as "elegant and calming," making it suitable for a romantic dinner. Many reviewers also commend the "exceptional" mocktails, hailing them as some of the best in Ottawa. The staff is noted for being very patient and mindful, explaining dishes thoroughly.

• Rating: 4.4 (2052 google maps)
• Address: 853 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-742-4444
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Features include a 7-course tasting menu, samosas, pepper lamb curry, paratha, shrimp moilee, and exceptional desserts.

5. North & Navy

Experience exquisite Italian cuisine in Ottawa.

North & Navy is revered as a must-visit Italian fine dining establishment in the heart of Ottawa. Guests consistently describe the experience as "out of the park from beginning to end," with every bite of food being "superb" and "fantastic." The restaurant boasts a beautifully decorated, homey yet elegant atmosphere. Service is highly praised for being attentive and informative, with staff offering great suggestions and crafting superb cocktails. The limited but well-curated changing menu ensures fresh, delicate, and flavorful dishes, making it a standout among Italian restaurants in Ottawa.

• Rating: 4.6 (1609 google maps)
• Address: 226 Nepean St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-232-6289
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Notable dishes include Lamb Mafaldine, various cicheti (small plates), and a selection of classic and inventive cocktails.

Read more: 16 Best Greek Food Spots in Ottawa You Can't Miss

6. Cantina Gia

Charming ambiance and delicious Italian comfort food.

Cantina Gia offers a truly charming dining experience tucked into the Glebe, making it a delightful choice among Ottawa restaurants. The atmosphere is consistently praised for its unique character, high ceilings, soft lighting, and great music, creating a "nice calm ambiance to chat, have drinks, and enjoy good food!" Guests rave about the "wonderful service and fantastic food," with special mentions for the daily focaccia bread, described as "sublime." It's also highlighted as one of the best places for brunch, offering delicious options like sour cream pancakes and ricotta toast.

• Rating: 4.2 (635 google maps)
• Address: 749 Bank St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-569-0464
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Features delicious daily focaccia, sour cream pancakes, ricotta toast, salmon Rosti, and rigate pasta.

7. Joe's Italian Kitchen - Preston

Hearty Italian dishes for a memorable meal.

Joe's Italian Kitchen on Preston is quickly becoming a go-to Italian restaurant in Ottawa, offering delicious and comforting meals with exceptional service. Diners consistently praise the "amazing family dinner" experiences, highlighting the lasagna as "perfect" and "highly recommended." Other standout dishes include the well-seasoned warm olives and generous, flavorful meatballs. The restaurant's decor is noted as "great" and "beautiful," with a welcoming winterized patio available for seating. Even during busy times, the staff is described as warm, welcoming, and attentive, ensuring a lovely dining evening.

• Rating: 4.4 (66 google maps)
• Address: 330 Preston St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-233-4982
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Popular choices include mushroom arancini, lasagna, pasta al limone, and various pinsa options.

8. A La Istanbul Turkish Cuisine

Exquisite Turkish cuisine with warm hospitality.

A La Istanbul Turkish Cuisine is a wonderful addition to Ottawa's diverse restaurant scene, offering "amazing Turkish food" that consistently "blows away" first-time visitors. The location is perfect, and the interior design is praised as "beautiful and modern." Guests rave about the authentic flavors and beautifully plated dishes, with highlights like the melt-in-your-mouth Chicken Adana and flavorful Veal Shish Kebab. The staff and owner are consistently described as "incredibly kind and welcoming," providing pristine service and making every visit an "explosion of flavor and delight."

• Rating: 4.8 (445 google maps)
• Address: 140 Rideau St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-562-0888
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Offers authentic Turkish dishes like Chicken Adana, Veal Shish Kebab, mixed grills, kebabs, mezzes, knefe, and chocolate souflé.

9. Shawarma Palace (Bank St)

The ultimate destination for authentic Lebanese shawarma.

Shawarma Palace on Bank St is renowned as one of the best Lebanese restaurants in Ottawa, consistently delivering "fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned" shawarmas. Many customers feel "right at home" due to the warm and welcoming service from all the staff. The "garlic sauce is absolutely amazing" and a highlight for many, complementing the juicy chicken perfectly. Despite being a big and popular spot, the service is fast and friendly, and the ample seating makes it a comfortable place to enjoy a delicious, authentic meal.

• Rating: 4.2 (4907 google maps)
• Address: 2440 Bank St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-739-9533
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Famous for its chicken and beef shawarmas, falafel wraps and bowls, garlic sauce, potatoes, and hummus.

10. DreamLand Cafe

Cozy cafe ambiance with heavenly handmade pasta.

DreamLand Cafe is a cherished gem among Ottawa restaurants, celebrated for its exceptional, fresh pasta and warm, inviting atmosphere. Many consider it to have the "best pasta in Ottawa," with dishes like the "Rosey & Spicy" and "Shrimply the Best" receiving rave reviews for their phenomenal flavors. The garlic bread is often described as "divine" and a must-try side. Beyond the delicious food, the customer service is consistently praised, with staff being welcoming, kind, quick, and attentive. The super cute decor and cozy, dim-lit ambiance make it a perfect spot for any meal.

• Rating: 4.6 (743 google maps)
• Address: 262 Preston St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-422-4200
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Specializes in fresh pasta dishes like Rosey & Spicy, Lobster Spaghetti, Truffle Mac & Cheese, Shrimply the Best, and Cheesy Dippers.

11. Starling Restaurant and Bar

Experience elevated dining with a charming touch.

Starling Restaurant and Bar offers a truly unforgettable dining experience in Ottawa's Byward Market, known for its chic and inviting atmosphere. Guests consistently highlight the "absolutely delicious" food, praising dishes like the steak frites with perfect presentation and Mediterranean platter. The ambiance is described as warm, inviting, and beautifully decorated with tasteful bird-themed elements. Service is often commended as timely, kind, and professional, making guests feel incredibly welcomed. It's a highly recommended spot for brunch or dinner, with a cozy yet modern vibe that makes every visit a delight.

• Rating: 4.2 (645 google maps)
• Address: 54 York St ground floor level, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-421-0820
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Features include steak frites, Mediterranean platter, crispy chicken burger, vegan bolognese, shakshooka, and avocado toast.

12. Shawarma Palace (Rideau St)

Taste the tradition: Shawarma Palace, an Ottawa staple.

Shawarma Palace on Rideau St continues to be a cornerstone of Ottawa's culinary scene, maintaining its reputation for delicious and generously portioned Lebanese food. Many loyal customers affirm that "it never disappoints," consistently serving fresh, juicy chicken and flavorful dishes. While some find the wraps a bit small for the price, the "huge" shawarma plates are widely appreciated for their generous portions, often enough for two people. The "garlic whip" is frequently singled out as the best at any shawarma place, solidifying its status as a top choice among Ottawa restaurants.

• Rating: 4.4 (4715 google maps)
• Address: 464 Rideau St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-789-9533
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Offers large chicken and beef shawarma plates, wraps, garlic whip, and other Lebanese specialties.

13. Shawarma Palace (Innes Rd)

Generous portions and authentic taste in Orleans.

The Shawarma Palace on Innes Rd is a standout Lebanese restaurant in Ottawa, particularly praised by those in the Orleans area as the "Best Shawarma in Orleans!" Customers appreciate the "spacious, bright, wide and clean" restaurant, which offers a comfortable dining experience. This location consistently delivers "rich and authentic" flavors, with perfectly seasoned and juicy meat. Reviewers are especially impressed by the "generous portions," noting that family platters are ideal for sharing, and the garlic sauce is, as expected from Shawarma Palace, "to die for."

• Rating: 4.3 (1.6 google maps)
• Address: 4230 Innes Rd, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-590-9533
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Known for its chicken and beef shawarma, family platters, and signature garlic sauce.

14. Zak's Diner (Byward Market Square)

Retro vibes, legendary milkshakes, and delicious diner food.

Zak's Diner in Byward Market Square is a beloved Ottawa restaurant, offering a classic retro diner experience with charming decor and a lively atmosphere. Many guests feel it's a "very nice place to eat in Ottawa," praising the excellent service and kind, helpful waitstaff. This diner is particularly famous for its "AMAZING milkshakes," often described as the "best milkshake" customers have ever had, and a wide selection of comforting breakfast and burger options. It's truly a "little gem" in the heart of the Byward Market, providing great food and good vibes.

• Rating: 4.2 (6532 google maps)
• Address: 14 Byward Market Square, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-241-2401
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Serves classic diner fare including all-day breakfast, burgers, poutines, and a variety of delicious milkshakes.

15. Zak's Diner Elgin St

Your destination for delicious, retro-inspired Ottawa dining.

Zak's Diner on Elgin St provides a modern take on the classic diner experience in Ottawa, offering "great vibes" and exceptionally friendly staff. Guests appreciate the recently renovated space, which contributes to a nice atmosphere for meals with friends. The food is consistently described as "actually really nice," with standouts including sweet and fresh fruit bowls. Service is noted for being fast and attentive, ensuring a smooth dining experience. It's a reliable spot for generous portions and satisfying diner fare, from breakfast options available all day to tasty burgers.

• Rating: 4.0 (1224 google maps)
• Address: 220 Elgin St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-421-0038
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Offers all-day breakfast, classic burgers, chicken wraps, eggs Benedict, and a range of milkshakes.

16. Zak's Diner Kanata

A local favorite for generous portions and retro charm.

Zak's Diner in Kanata offers a bright and colorful retro diner experience, making it a fun and family-friendly spot among Ottawa restaurants. Patrons consistently highlight the "huge" and very filling portion sizes, offering "amazing value for the price." The atmosphere is described as enjoyable, and the place is clearly well-loved, often packed with customers. Reviewers rave about the "great huge shakes with lots of flavor" and the reliable classic diner food. The staff is generally praised for being super friendly and accommodating, ensuring a pleasant meal for all.

• Rating: 4.1 (1.7 google maps)
• Address: 499 Terry Fox Dr, Kanata
• Phone: +1 613-435-5483
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Serves classic diner items like big breakfasts, various poutines, burgers, wraps, and a wide selection of milkshakes.

17. Zak's Diner Westboro

Retro ambiance and satisfying meals in Westboro.

Zak's Diner in Westboro provides a delightful diner experience in Ottawa, celebrated for its "perfect spot for a tasty burger" and comforting breakfast dishes. The atmosphere is described as "super chill," with good music playing and a warm, welcoming vibe. Guests consistently praise the friendly, helpful, and attentive staff who go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction. The food is noted for being really good and delicious, offering satisfying portions. It's a great choice for those seeking a classic diner feel with reliable, tasty meals in Westboro.

• Rating: 4.1 (288 google maps)
• Address: 334 Richmond Rd, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-369-5002
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Features tasty burgers, breakfast items, including perfectly cooked eggs, and a selection of classic diner fare.

18. Erling's Variety

A dynamic culinary experience with ever-changing delights.

Erling's Variety offers a dynamic and delightful dining experience in Ottawa, praised for its innovative Canadian cuisine and charming, sophisticated atmosphere. Guests frequently highlight the "delicious food," noting that "everything was prepared well" with flavors that are "nicely proportioned and super tasty." The staff is consistently described as "incredibly kind," "attentive," and "helpful," ensuring a welcoming visit. With a constantly evolving menu and a cozy environment, it's a fantastic choice for those seeking a unique culinary adventure among Ottawa's restaurants, perfect for both casual visits and special occasions.

• Rating: 4.5 (298 google maps)
• Address: 225 Strathcona Ave, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-231-8484
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Known for its ever-changing menu featuring dishes like scallops, arctic char flatbread, hot het sandwich, fried chicken, and a great happy hour.

19. JOEY Lansdowne

A stylish Ottawa spot for diverse culinary delights.

JOEY Lansdowne offers an exceptional and stylish dining experience among Ottawa restaurants, celebrated for its well-crafted drinks, delicious starters like sushi cones, and perfectly prepared main courses. Guests consistently describe their visits as "exceptional dining," praising the quality of the food and the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. The service receives high acclaim, with servers often noted for being "friendly and attentive," going "the extra mile" to make dining "amazing." It’s a popular choice for those looking for elevated yet approachable cuisine in a lively setting.

• Rating: 4.5 (5692 google maps)
• Address: 825 Exhibition Way Unit 103, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-695-5639
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Highlights include sushi cones, lettuce chicken wraps, filet mignon steak, ravioli, and a wide selection of cocktails.

20. JOEY Rideau

Upscale casual dining and vibrant atmosphere in downtown Ottawa.

JOEY Rideau stands as a top choice for upscale casual dining in downtown Ottawa, offering an electric atmosphere and an exceptional menu. Guests frequently rave about the delicious food, especially the "shrimp and lobster sushi appetizer" and perfectly cooked "steak and sushi." The ambiance is described as inviting and sophisticated, creating a pleasant environment for dining. Service is consistently praised for being "friendly and attentive," with staff going "above and beyond" to ensure a memorable experience, making it an ideal spot for any occasion.

• Rating: 4.5 (6229 google maps)
• Address: 50 Rideau St E106, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-680-5639 Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Popular items include shrimp and lobster sushi, katsu chicken, steak frites, Tuna Poke Bowl, and fish tacos.

21. Trio Bistro and Lounge

Westboro's hidden gem for elevated comfort food and cocktails.

Trio Bistro and Lounge, a hidden gem in Ottawa's Westboro, offers an exceptional blend of elevated comfort food, creative cocktails, and a cozy, inviting atmosphere. This "amazing elevated comfort food" spot is celebrated for its continuously changing "special and adventure board," ensuring new and exciting dishes with each visit. Guests rave about the "delicious" food, from "crispy new potatoes" and "pulled pork tacos" to "lamb-burger sliders." The "flawless dining experience," outstanding service, and perfect music playlist make it a top choice for both casual visits and special occasions among Ottawa restaurants.

• Rating: 4.7 (416 google maps)
• Address: 307D Richmond Rd, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-722-3887
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Features include ever-changing "Adventure Board," fish tacos, chicken sliders, cheese charcuterie, pork belly tacos, lamb-burger sliders, crispy new potatoes, and crème brûlée.

22. Arlo Wine & Restaurant

A culinary sanctuary for modern tastes and intimate evenings.

Arlo Wine & Restaurant offers an elevated and intimate dining experience in Ottawa, celebrated for its phenomenal food, impressive wine selection, and impeccable service. Guests consistently describe their meals as "absolutely delicious," from starters to mains and desserts, with particular praise for dishes like their "perfect" steak, "delectable" scallops, and "divine" chocolate tart. The atmosphere is noted as cozy and intimate, with a "most romantic back patio" for outdoor dining. The attentive staff and owner, Alex, ensure a "flawless dining experience," making Arlo a top choice for special occasions and culinary indulgence.

• Rating: 4.7 (468 google maps)
• Address: 340 Somerset St W, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-421-1424
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Offers a refined menu including beet salad, turbot, scalloped tartar, duck frites, bone marrow appy, braised ossobuco, espresso parfait, and various cocktails and wines.

23. Restaurant e18hteen

An elegant culinary destination for memorable occasions.

Restaurant e18hteen stands as a premier fine dining establishment in Ottawa's historic Byward Market, renowned for its incredible food, elegant ambiance, and professional service. Guests consistently praise the "beautiful" interior and the "delicious" taste of the dishes, with highlights including flavorful steak and lobster. Many describe their experience as "amazing," noting the top-tier service that is both accommodating and attentive, even for special requests like birthday celebrations. The chef's diverse culinary mixes and fresh seafood ensure a sophisticated and memorable dining experience for any occasion.

• Rating: 4.5 (715 google maps)
• Address: 18 York St, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-244-1188
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Offers a diverse menu with options like steak, lobster, grilled octopus, duck, and a 5-course tasting menu.

24. Le Poisson Bleu

Fresh catches and delightful dining in a charming setting.

Le Poisson Bleu is a delightful seafood restaurant in Ottawa, praised for its "incredible brunch" and fresh, delicious seafood dishes. Many guests describe it as a "delicious seafood experience," highlighting inventive cocktails and a delectable lobster risotto. The interior is charming and welcoming, while the service is consistently noted as "warm, personable, and knowledgeable." Whether you're enjoying their "smoked king salmon eggs benedict" for brunch or a "seafood charcuterie board" for dinner, Le Poisson Bleu promises a memorable culinary journey with perfectly cooked dishes and excellent flavors.

• Rating: 4.7 (537 google maps)
• Address: 610 Somerset St W, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-656-1638
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Features a seafood tower, tuna steak au poivre, rhubarb pie, shrimp tartar, smoked king salmon eggs benedict, lobster risotto, mussels, and cod.

25. Union Local 613

Experience culinary adventure and unique ambiance.

Union Local 613 is an "underated gem" among Ottawa restaurants, celebrated for its delicious Southern-inspired comfort food and uniquely vibrant atmosphere, including a hidden speakeasy. Guests consistently praise the "creative and delicious" cocktails, along with tasty appetizers like "boiled peanuts" and "Frito Pie" that add a fun, quirky touch to the meal. The food is noted for its "southern/cajun twist" and generous portions, with every item on the plate receiving high marks. The service is described as "awesome; warm, funny, effective and knowledgable," ensuring a truly enjoyable and memorable dining experience.

• Rating: 4.4 (1146 google maps)
• Address: 315 Somerset St W, Ottawa
• Phone: +1 613-231-1010
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Offers Southern-inspired dishes like fried chicken, boiled peanuts, Frito Pie, bologna sandwich, and a selection of creative cocktails and sangria.

Whether you are looking for a fine dining experience, a casual spot for delicious comfort food, or authentic international flavors, the restaurants in Ottawa listed above will meet your needs exceptionally well. From the vibrant Byward Market to the charming streets of Glebe and Westboro, Ottawa offers a culinary journey for every taste. 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!