Canada’s Capital Does Not Disappoint When It Comes To Good Eats
In Canada’s capital, you’ll find some of our best restaurants. Ottawa offers a diverse and vibrant food scene that will satisfy every palate. From hidden gems to renowned establishments, this city promises a gastronomic adventure you won’t want to miss.
The 8 Best Restaurants In Ottawa
Embark on a culinary journey through Ottawa’s finest dining establishments. These eight restaurants stand out for their exceptional cuisine, ambience, and service. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favourite or a visitor seeking a memorable meal, these top picks offer a taste of Ottawa’s culinary excellence.
1) Riviera Ottawa
Riviera epitomizes culinary excellence and sophistication. With an upscale, contemporary ambience, it seamlessly blends modern European and Canadian flavours. Its recognition on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants and Top 100 Romantic Restaurants lists in 2023 underscores its excellence.
2) Thali
Thali offers a unique dining experience rooted in Indian traditions. Meals are served on round plates known as “Thali,” featuring small bowls filled with a variety of dishes, providing a balanced nutrition concept. The menu, crafted by award-winning chef Joe Thottungal, offers 6-7 dishes daily, including vegan and gluten-free options. Thali also prioritizes environmental concerns with copper bowls, paper straws, and minimal food waste. With a welcoming atmosphere, it promises an exciting downtown food experience.
3) Supply and Demand
Supply and Demand, owned by husband and wife duo Steven and Jennifer Wall, embodies a passion for food and community. Their culinary vision centres on sustainability and taste, creating dishes they love sharing with friends and family. The menu showcases light and vibrant raw bar options, vegetable-focused small plates, and savoury, handcrafted pastas. Whether celebrating special occasions or enjoying a casual gathering, the warm, open kitchen adds to the convivial atmosphere. This tight-knit team of hospitality professionals fosters a positive work environment, emphasizing culinary mentorship and community engagement.
4) FRASER
Fraser opened its doors in 2008. They are committed to consistently offering balanced dishes that highlight seasonal and local ingredients, all while ensuring their guests enjoy a personalized dining experience. In their ongoing evolution, Fraser has introduced a Takeaway & Bottle Shop, where they offer prepared foods, takeaway meals, and also an extensive selection of wine.
5) Soif Bar à vin
SOIF Bar à Vin is a true wine bar, with a focus on authentic wines that speak of their origins, emphasizing organic and biodynamic practices. The concise, ever-changing wine list features natural wines made by passionate producers. Complementing the wine selection, SOIF also offers a full kitchen with an award-winning menu of small and sharing plates, highlighting simple preparations and exceptional ingredients. Owned by renowned sommelier Véronique Rivest, SOIF provides a laid-back, friendly, and fun atmosphere for wine discovery as well as enjoyment.
6) Restaurant Les Fougeres
Restaurant Les Fougères, established in 1993, has earned numerous regional and national awards for its dedication to culinary excellence, markedly emphasizing regional and seasonal ingredients. Led by Chef Blake Williams and Sous Chef Simon Beaudry, the kitchen offers a dynamic menu influenced by West Quebec seasons and terroir. Maître d’Hôtel Manna Phillips and her team create a welcoming and unpretentious atmosphere in the dining room.
7) Arlo Wine & Restaurant
Arlo exudes a cozy and inviting ambience. The decor blends elegance with uniqueness, featuring salt lamps, candles, and also a patio adorned with twinkling lights. The menu showcases a dynamic array of dishes bursting with bold flavours and innovative techniques, from vibrant small plates to hearty mains. Featured on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list and boasting a superb selection of natural wines, Arlo has become an Ottawa favourite since its 2020 opening. Co-owner and sommelier Alex McMahon’s fresh, local focus and chef Jamie Stunt’s seasonal offerings make it a culinary success.
8) Alice
Alice, a vegetable and fermentation-focused tasting menu restaurant by Chef Briana Kim, offers a dazzling culinary adventure. Chef Kim, a Canadian Culinary Championship winner in February 2023, crafts each dish with artistic flair and attention to detail, thus creating a feast for the senses. Alice ranks as Ottawa’s top restaurant on Canada’s 2023 Best Restaurants list.
