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Home » Recent posts » The 12 Best Restaurants on Elgin Street That We’ve Tried and ACTUALLY Loved

The 12 Best Restaurants on Elgin Street That We’ve Tried and ACTUALLY Loved

best-restaurants-on-elgin-street

Okay, get this: I have a small, teensy-weensy obsession with food, which basically commands my social life and probably explains why my dog looks at me funny every time I dance in the kitchen. 

But listen, before you judge, let me tell you, Elgin Street’s restaurants are the reason my jeans scream for mercy every time I try to button them up. Trust me, I’ve eaten my way down here enough times to know which spots are worth skipping your Netflix binge for. 

So read on, and let me show you the food joints where I’ve personally battled food comas.

Johnny Farina 

Website: http://www.johnnyfarina.com/ 

Address: 216 Elgin St

Contact details: +1 613-565-5155

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Wednesday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
  • Thursday – 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM
  • Friday and Saturday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
  • Sunday – 4 PM to 9 PM

Cost: $$

Johnny Farina is where the Italian vibes are unmistakable. They have this massive 35-foot ceiling that just wows you the moment you walk in.

They’ve got everything from mouth-watering lasagna to their signature Penne Johnny Farina and even wood-fired pizzas—the Margherita is a slice of heaven, trust me. But if you want to go big, you’ve got to try their Kichesippi Beer Pie or Pizza Carbonara.

And for those who can’t decide, their hot meat trays are a tour de force of Italian platters that’s perfect for sharing or not; we won’t judge.

Pro tip:

If you’re thinking of giving someone a gift, or maybe you just want to treat yourself, Johnny Farina offers e-gifts. It’s super convenient, and who wouldn’t appreciate a meal out at one of the best spots on Elgin Street?

Gitanes

Media credit: mangiawithmariah

Website: http://www.gitanes.co/ 

Address: 361 Elgin St Unit #6

Contact details: +1 613-562-0699

Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday to Thursday – 5:30 PM to 10 PM
  • Friday and Saturday – 5:30 PM to 1 AM

Cost: $-$$

Gitanes is all about the fine dining experience without being stuffy. Seafood lovers go nuts for their seafood platter, and if you’re the adventurous type, hit up their caviar service—you won’t regret it. 

Then there’s the beef tartare and roast duck, and we are always raving about how on-point the flavours are. Gitanes also offers a tasting menu, which is perfect for special occasions, or when you just want to treat yourself because, yes, you deserve it.

Pro tip:

Gitanes is actually siblings with this gem called G Burger. If you’re ever in the mood for something less formal but still top-notch, you’ve got to swing by there.

Al’s Steakhouse

Website: https://www.alssteakhouse.ca/ 

Address: 327 Elgin St

Contact details: +1 613-233-7111

Operating hours: 

  • Sunday to Tuesday – 11 AM to 10 PM
  • Wednesday to Saturday – 11 AM to 11 PM

Cost: $$

If you’re in the mood for a meal that’s all about indulgence, Al’s Steakhouse is where it’s at. They’ve got the whole surf and turf thing going on, with a killer selection of seafood to start with. 

But hey, when you’re at Al’s, it’s all about the steaks—filet mignon, New York strips, ribeye—you name it, they cook it to perfection. All these are perfectly paired with their wine list, not to mention the creative cocktails they whip up.

Pro tip:

Al’s has this happy hour that you wouldn’t want to miss. Whether you’re more of a lounge lizard or a patio person, they’ve got you covered. 

Plus, if you’re looking to throw an event, be it a private party or even a wedding, Al’s is surprisingly versatile. 

El Camino

Website: http://eatelcamino.com/ 

Address:  380 Elgin St

Contact details: +1 613-422-2800

Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday to Thursday, Sunday – 5:30 PM to 11 PM
  • Friday and Saturday – 5:30 PM to 12 AM

Cost: $-$$

El Camino is the place for some tacos, tequila, and all the vibes. They’ve got everything from pork belly pastor to ox tongue, chorizo crispy tacos, and let’s not overlook the crispy fish taco. 

And to quench your thirst, they’ve got this impressive list of cocktails and beers that pairs perfectly with whatever taco you’re diving into. It’s this buzzing spot where the energy is always high, and the flavours are even higher.

Pro tip:

El Camino is super popular, so if you’ve got your heart set on a taco feast, making a reservation is a smart move.

The Whalesbone 

Website: https://thewhalesbone.com/pages/elgin-street-menu 

Address: 231 Elgin St 

Contact details: +1 613-505-4300

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday – 4 PM to 11 PM
  • Friday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM
  • Saturday and Sunday – 3 PM to 11 PM

Cost: $-$$

The Whalesbone is basically a seafood lover’s dream come true. Their offerings include fresh oysters, lobster rolls, salmon and chips, and even the not-to-miss seafood platters, which can be served hot or chilled.

They do seafood right, but what’s cool is that they also care about sustainability, so you can feel good about what you’re eating too. But if you want something else aside from seafood, they also have steak frites, wagyu burgers, and roasted bone marrow.

Pro tip:

The Whalesbone has these catering options that will kick your events up several notches. Think about having their exquisite seafood served at your next big bash.

German Doner Kebab

Website: https://www.germandonerkebab.com/?utm_source=GMBlisting&utm_medium=organic 

Address:  272 Elgin St

Contact details: +1 613-235-6688

Operating hours: 

  • Sunday to Thursday  – 11 AM to 11 PM
  • Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 1 AM

Cost: $-$$

When you’re in the mood for something hearty, a bit spicy, and satisfying, you’ll want to head to German Doner Kebab on Elgin Street. They’ve got the kebab scene sorted with their signature sauces that kick each bite. 

Whether you fancy the classic Original German Doner Kebab, a wrap, or you want to dive into something like their doner burger or veggie kebab for a lighter touch, they’ve got you. You can mix and match or stick with your favourite—the choice is yours.

Pro tip:

If you’re the kind of person who likes to get a full meal with all the trimmings—we’re talking your chosen doner, plus sides and a drink—then you can’t pass up on The Boss Box.

The Standard

Website: http://www.thestandardtavern.com/ 

Address: 360 Elgin St

Contact details: +1 613-232-6274

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 5 PM to 2 AM

Cost: $-$$

The Standard is a chill spot where the food menu really brings its A-game. I mean, who can resist a heaping plate of nachos or a perfect poutine? But then, they bring out the big guns with their juicy burgers and tasty tacos, which have everyone talking.

And if you’re feeling some Italian vibes, their beef bolognese and pesto pasta are on point. Their beer and cocktail list is stacked with all the good stuff, too!

Pro tip:

Don’t miss out on their happy hour and daily specials. We’re talking Mojito Mondays and Tequila Thursdays, and trust me, they’re always a hit.

Datsun

Website: https://eatdatsun.com/ 

Address: 380 Elgin St

Contact details: +1 613-421-7411

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Saturday – 5 PM to 10 AM

Cost: $-$$

Datsun is a gem for anyone who craves Asian-inspired food. Their bao buns are absolute game changers, whether you’re biting into the crispy chicken bao or the rich and savoury pork belly bao. 

And let’s not sleep on their dumplings; the kabocha squash and pork ones are crowd favourites. For ramen lovers, their bowls are a deep dive into comfort, while the rice paper rolls are a lighter option that packs a punch. 

Moreover, they also have cocktails, with Ex’s Sweater and Tokyo Drift being the hits.

Pro tip:

Since Datsun is popular, reservations are your friend, especially if you’ve got your heart set on those bao buns and don’t fancy waiting.

Elgin Street Diner

Website: http://www.elginstreetdiner.com/ 

Address: 374 Elgin St

Contact details: +1 613-237-9700

Operating hours: 

  • Open 24 hours

Cost: $-$$

Oh, you’ve gotta hit up Elgin Street Diner, especially if you’re craving some poutine. Not just any poutine, but the kind loaded with cheese curds and gravy, and if you’re feeling wild, top it with some pulled pork or smoked meat.

Their breakfasts are legendary around these parts too—think heaping plates of eggs, bacon, pancakes, and the works—basically everything you need to either kickstart or cap off your day. Plus, their thick, creamy milkshakes are worth the shout too!

Pro tip:

Elgin Street Diner has you covered with their 24/7 takeout and delivery service. Whether it’s a late-night craving or an early-morning hunger pang, you can count on them to serve up your favourites any time.

The Waverley Elgin

Website: http://www.thewaverleyelgin.com/ 

Address: 339 Elgin St

Contact details: +1 613-627-4140

Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday to Thursday  – 4 PM to 12 AM
  • Friday and Saturday – 4 PM to 2 AM
  • Sunday – 4 PM to 11 PM

Cost: $-$$

I’m talking about their juicy chicken wings that hit the spot every time and the burgers—you better try The Wave Burger; it’s not your average burger, and it’s a crowd-pleaser for a reason. 

They also serve up some delicious tacos with options like chicken or steak, so you’ve got choices. And for those who fancy something a bit more upscale, their charcuterie board is a delicious option. 

Waverly also boasts an extensive list of draft beers, cocktails, and wines that’ll make your decision-making a tad bit difficult—in the best way possible. Plus, they’re fantastic at accommodating dietary restrictions, so no one feels left out.

Pro tip:

If you have a celebration coming up or just a big group that needs a spot, The Waverly Elgin can be hired for parties.

Nando’s PERi-PERi

Website: https://www.nandos.ca/find/ottawa-elgin-street 

Address: 90 Elgin St Unit 3

Contact details: +1 613-230-7474

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM

Cost: $-$$

Nando’s PERi-PERi is all about chicken, but not just any chicken. We’re talking about marinated-for-24-hours, flame-grilled-to-perfection chicken coated in your choice of PERi-PERi sauce.

You can pick your heat level, from “Let me live” mild to “I’m a legend” hot. But hey, if you’re not all about the spice life, they’ve also got some milder options like the PERi honey sweet potatoes, grilled halloumi cheese sticks and more.

Now, if you’re going with your family or friends, you can have one of their platters.

Pro tip:

If you’re a fan of Nando’s PERi-PERi chicken on Elgin Street, you’ll want to dive into their Peri-Perks loyalty program. With this, you earn points every time you indulge in their dishes, which leads to some tasty rewards down the line.

Town Restaurant

Website: http://www.townlovesyou.ca/ 

Address: 296 Elgin St

Contact details: +1 613-695-8696

Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday to Saturday – 5 PM to 9 PM

Cost: $$

Town Restaurant is where you go when you’re in the mood for Italian but with a trendy, modern twist. Their plates are these beautiful little works of art that taste as good as they look.

Just start with the Town meatballs—yeah, it sounds simple, but they’re actually good—or dive right into their confit duck leg and pork belly if you want something heavy.

Pro tip:

Don’t forget to browse through their bottle shop. They’ve got a lineup of wines, craft beers, and spirits that can take your taste buds on a global tour.

Also, reservations are a good idea, especially on weekends.