Olivia TaylorExploring Ottawa’s exciting culinary scene doesn’t have to put a dent in your wallet. In fact, the city is teeming with cheap eats serving up delectable meals at surprisingly affordable prices.
While some of these restaurants hide in plain sight, some are off-the-beaten-path treasures that would require some insider scoop to discover.
Fortunately, you have us as your trusty insiders, ready to take you to the tastiest bites where even your wallet will thank you!
1. Bite Burger House
Website: https://biteburgerhouse.com
Address: 108 Murray St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5M7, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-562-2483
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Thursday – 4 PM to 10 PM
- Friday – 4 PM to 11 PM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
Located in the heart of the dynamic ByWard Market, Bite Burger House is a surprisingly affordable joint, beckoning to anyone looking for an affordable meal in the buzzing neighborhood.
They have a wide range of burger options available, most of which are uniquely crafted in their kitchen, tempting us to try a new twist on this hearty dish.
The le paris specifically caught our attention, which is a unique concoction featuring pear compote, smoked bacon, chuck, and double cream brie. We love its harmonious blend of creamy, savory, sweet, and smoky flavors.
2. Ahora Mexican Restaurant
Website: https://www.ahora.ca
Address: 307 Dalhousie St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7E8, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-562-2081
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday – 4 PM to 9 PM
- Wednesday and Thursday – 12 PM to 9 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 8 PM
Ahora Mexican Restaurant exudes a colorful and festive vibe, reminiscent of a lively fiesta. It’s a fitting ambiance for an eatery that boasts a delicious and affordable menu worth celebrating.
The most notable pick for us is the burrito de carne, with the way it’s packed with bold Mexican-inspired flavors. It’s both hearty and savory and for $14.75, we say it’s a good bargain.
Other dishes we enjoyed were the taco taco, nachos, and ensalada de camarones.
3. Good Eats Cafe
Website: https://goodeats.ca
Address: 207 Bell St N, Ottawa, ON K1R 5B8, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-231-3287
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8 AM to 9 PM
- Friday – 8 AM to 11 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 11 PM
- Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Good Eats Cafe is an unpretentious spot with a rotating menu of delicious meals.
Their breakfast bowl stands out as an exceptional choice for anyone looking for something filling and hearty from 8 AM to 4 PM.
For just $16.95, you get a delicious plate with two eggs, bacon, sausage, rosemary mushrooms, tomato, spinach, potatoes, and their own tomato chutney.
They also have other equally delicious and healthy choices like the granola cup, avocado toast, and salad.
By the way, they boast a number of gluten-free and vegan choices, catering even to those with dietary restrictions.
4. Corazon De Mias
Website: https://www.corazondemaizbyward.com
Address: 55 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON K1N 9C3, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-244-1661
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 8:30 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 6 PM
Corazon De Mias is another affordable addition to the thriving ByWard Market. Its relaxed and casual atmosphere is sure to appeal to anyone seeking a laid-back dining adventure where they can unwind with the company of delicious meals.
A few standout choices that made it to our list of favorites are quesadilla ($10.90), tortilla soup ($5.75), and soft tacos ($13). It’s certainly inexpensive compared to other spots in the city.
Additionally, the portions are quite generous, making each plate a great value for your money.
Furthermore, despite being on the pricier side, their horchata is one of the best-sellers. If you have a few loonies to spend, we don’t see a reason why you shouldn’t try this tasty Mexican rice drink.
5. Sula Wok
Website: https://www.sulawok.com
Address: 184 Main St, Ottawa, ON K1S 1C2, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-890-7852
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11 AM to 8 PM
- Friday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 4 PM to 8 PM
Sula Wok is a cozy hangout spot serving a wide variety of Asian meals for a reasonable price.
Customers can’t get enough of the pad thai, consistently topping the sales charts. And of course, we were immediately converted into die-hard fans as soon as we took a bite of this tasty noodle dish.
The blend of various flavors is delightfully balanced. Additionally, the portions are extremely generous. For $14.38, it sounds like a great deal to us!
Aside from the pad thai, you can also get yourself some Asian tacos, dumplings, rice bowls, salads, and more. We told you – there’s an array of choices for you to try here.
6. Gooneys Sandwichworks
Website: https://gooneysottawa.ca
Address: 294 Albert St suite 102, Ottawa, ON K1P 6E6, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-233-2460
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – closed
Gooneys Sandwichworks boasts exciting offerings of arepas, latin bowls, and sandwiches in the heart of Downtown Ottawa.
The matahambre arepa is a standout favorite among our staff members here.
It’s a flavorful gluten-free meal that features two eggs, feta cheese, chorizo, and their very own coriander sauce. It’s only $9 and very filling!
Other mouthwatering options we recommend are the catira, sabana, and ranchera.
And if you want to appease your sweet tooth, try out the tres leches cake.
Overall, because of its accessible location, delicious meals, and hefty portions, Gooneys Sandwichworks has become a favorite among locals in need of a good sandwich fix.
