Liam SmithWe’re about to take a stroll down one of Ottawa’s oldest and most iconic streets, Sparks Street! This pedestrian-only gem is lined with restaurants that have offerings ranging from creamy poutines to dishes with international flair.
If you think you can handle all this tastiness, then that’s brilliant! We’ve compiled some juicy insider info on these Sparks Street restaurants that you shouldn’t miss. So read on!
Bridgehead
Website: http://www.bridgehead.ca/
Address: 96 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5T9, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-232-4936
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 6 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 7 AM to 6 PM
Cost: $-$$
Bridgehead offers almost all kinds of coffee, like espresso, cold brew, and decaf. Then there’s the grub, and let me tell you, their pastries are perfect like the char shortbread, croissant, stollen, and pecan snowdrops (which, are all gluten-free, by the way).
But if you’re here around lunch, you can aim for their wraps and burritos. Plus, they sell some good quality coffee beans, with the centro house, spring fling, and early risers being the most sought-after.
| Pro tip: Bridgehead has a loyalty program that’s worth signing up for if you fancy scoring free coffees or teas down the line. Also, they’re pretty popular come morning, so if it’s peace and a quick bite you’re after, aim for the post-breakfast, pre-lunch window. |
Valentina
Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/Valentina-at-240-Sparks-St-Ottawa-100057545804048/?locale=ga_IE
Address: 240 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 6C9, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-295-1311
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 3 PM
Cost: $-$$
Valentina’s tacos are not just tacos; they’re an art form. Whether you tilt towards their carnitas, fish, or vegetarian—you name ‘em, they’ve perfected ‘em.
They don’t play around when it comes to their quesadillas and burritos, either. They’re stuffed to the gills with goodness and oozing with cheese, plus, the guacamole—fresh, chunky, with just the right kick of lime and cilantro.
| Pro tip: Their lunch specials are a steal and a fantastic way to sample different items without breaking the bank. Also, parking can be a bit of a spelunking adventure around here, so consider public transit or a good old pair of walking shoes. |
The Office Resto Pub
Website: https://theofficerestopub.business.site/
Address: 202 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5C1, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-680-0086
Operating hours:
- Monday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Tuesday and Wednesday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Thursday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Friday – 11 AM to 2 AM
Cost: $-$$
The Office Resto Pub is all about comfort food done right, like their legendary seasoned wings. You can choose your adventure with various sauces ranging from “mildly interesting” to “call the fire department.”
Let’s not forget the tasty burgers like the boss (smoked patty with Swiss cheese, pickled onions, spicy dijon, and lettuce), habanero blue (patty topped with blue cheese and habanero), and veggie (black bean, mushroom, onion, quinoa, and panko patty).
| Pro tip: Happy hour here is not to be missed since it’s the perfect opportunity to sample their drink selection at low prices. And for the sports fans, they broadcast the games, so if you’re looking to catch the game with some great grub and good vibes, this is your spot. |
Rabbit Hole
Website: https://www.rabbitholeott.ca/
Address: 208 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5C1, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-695-0500
Operating hours:
- Monday – 5 PM to 12 AM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM
- Friday – 11:30 AM to 2 AM
- Saturday – 5 PM to 2 AM
Cost: $$
Rabbit Hole is known for their tasty wood-fired pizzas (bonus perk: their topping combos vary from honey drizzle, sesame crust, garlic oil, chilli oil, and house-blended mozzarella cheese).
Their roasted chicken is a force to be reckoned with, and pairs well with their hearty plates of pasta. And let’s not forget the desserts, with the creme brulee and pistachio chocolate mousse cake dominating the list.
| Pro tip: If you’re feeling particularly vibey, stop by during their cocktail hour. Their expert mixologists whip up some wicked concoctions that are indeed the perfect companions to your food explorations. |
Riviera Ottawa
Website: http://www.dineriviera.com/
Address: 62 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A5, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-233-6262
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 5 PM to 10 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 5 PM to 11 PM
Cost: $$-$$$
Riviera Ottawa knows how to do fine dining without the Tuxedo-level fussiness. Seafood lovers will fall head-over-heels for their bouillabaisse, a French classic that they pull off with aplomb.
Beyond that, the steak sandwich is worth the shout too, with generous slabs of meat topped with caramelized onions and cheese. I should also mention the foie gras eclair, which is an absolute must-try.
| Pro tip: Remember, their well-curated wine list pairs impeccably with their dishes; ask their staff for recommendations. |
Bier Markt
Website: https://www.thebiermarkt.com/en/locations/on/ottawa/156-sparks-st
Address: 156 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 6L1, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-780-7575
Operating hours:
- Sunday and Monday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM
Cost: $-$$
Now don’t let the name fool you; Bier Markt’s not just about a chill brewski (though they’ve got an encyclopedic range of those!). No, this place is a global food fest boasting German fare.
Their pretzels, sausages, and Belgian mussels are delicious like a Michelin-starred dish. Plus, you cannot skimp on their Quebecois-styled poutines—you know, it’s cheesy, and with a gravy that’s going to have you licking your fingers, no shame.
| Pro tip: This joint’s always in the mood for a celebration, so check their website for recurring events and special promotions. And if you’re coming in a group, book in advance because this place fills up fast. |
D’Arcy McGee’s
Website: https://www.facebook.com/sparks.darcymcgees/
Address: 44 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A8, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-230-4433
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM
- Thursday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM, 12:05 AM to 1 AM
Cost: $-$$
Now, if you’re cruising through Sparks Street with a hankering for something hearty, a stop at D’Arcy McGee’s is pretty much mandatory. Their fish and chips are not to be missed.
But don’t you dare sleep on their shepherd’s pie, served warm, so it’s kind of perfect for the winter season. And for all you thirsty folks out there, they’ve got a bevy of Irish stouts, ales, and whiskeys perfect to end your meal.
| Pro tip: Trivia Tuesdays are a hoot, packed with locals and expats alike. It’s a great way to mix, mingle, and maybe learn a thing or two. |
Brixton’s British Pub
Website: https://www.facebook.com/brixtonspub/
Address: 210 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5C1, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-233-8283
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 11 PM
Cost: $$
Brixton’s British Pub is your go-to spot when the craving hits for a spot of tea or, more likely, a pint and some pub grub. But what truly shines are its steak and ale, chicken and mushroom, and the venerable Cornish pasty.
Now, no British pub worth its salt would skimp on the beer, and Brixton’s delivers. From Newcastle Brown Ale to bass, and even British gins, your pint glass will never see a dull moment here.
| Pro tip: Try to swing by on ‘Pie & Pint’ night for a combo deal that’ll make you feel like British nobility, even if it’s just in the savings. |
Crêperie Rim
Website: https://www.facebook.com/creperim/
Address: 89 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A5, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-421-3462
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 9 PM
Cost: $-$$
For something a wee bit lighter but no less hearty, we have the Crêperie Rim. This place’s magic is folded into a thin pancake, be it their sweet or savoury selections.
The ‘complete’ is a favourite, slathered with ham, egg, and cheese. But here’s the kicker: Crêperie Rim also offers a selection of Brittany ciders; they’re crisp, slightly sweet, and the perfect complement to wash down your crêpe of choice.
| Pro tip: If you crave a late-night snack, Crêperie Rim often runs specials in the evening. And for all the indecisive folks out there, their ‘Crêpe of the Day’ is always a solid choice, taking the guesswork out of your hands. |
Palermo Express
Address: 143 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A5, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-232-5500
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Cost: $
Palermo Express is a family-owned spot and has got your Italian cravings covered with a plethora of delicious options. The brisket panini here is like a love affair in a sandwich—you cannot beat it, plus it’s a crowd favourite!
We mustn’t forget to mention their good wraps, ranging from the classic chicken tortilla to the Lupita wrap (smoked turkey tortilla).
| Pro tip: If you’re in a rush, they do this magical thing called “express” for a reason. Call ahead to order and skip the line. |
Ottawa Bike Cafe
Website: http://ottawabikecafe.com/
Address: 79 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A5, Canada
Contact details: +1 343-996-9487
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost: $-$$
Ottawa Bike Cafe is exactly what it sounds like—a paradise for cyclers and coffee lovers fused into one. You can pair the coffee with one of their legendary power muffins, and you’ve got yourself the breakfast of champions.
Moreover, they also have lunch offerings like sandwiches, salads, and wraps filled with fresh, local ingredients that taste great. And for the sweet tooth ones, you can have their house-made pastries like pumpkin muffins (vegan), chocolatine and butter croissants.
| Pro tip: They’ve got this sweet setup where you can get your bike tuned up while you fuel up. So, check your tyres and your tummy; both can get sorted here. |
3 Brewers – Sparks
Website: http://www.les3brasseurs.ca/
Address: 240 Sparks St. Local C215, Ottawa, ON K1P 6C9, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-380-8140
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Friday – 11 AM to 12 AM
- Saturday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
Cost: $$
3 Brewers: Sparks is a haven for anyone who likes their meal with a pint of something special. Their microbrewery setup isn’t just for show; they churn out some good and tasty brews like the light and refreshing blonde or the darker and richer brown ale.
And because they know a man cannot live on beer alone (though we’ve tried), their food menu complements every pint perfectly. From hearty burgers to savoury flammekueches (think ultra-thin pizzas), your belly will be as happy as your taste buds.
| Pro tip: 3 Brewers rotate their beers seasonally, so there’s always something new to try. And if you sign up for their loyalty program, you get points for every dollar you spend. |
