Ethan BrownLet’s face it, diet plans are like New Year’s resolutions—mostly made to be broken, right? And when it comes to breaking them gloriously, downtown Ottawa’s restaurants are the perfect partners in crime.
Remember the last time you promised to just “try a bite” and ended up devouring a dish like there’s no tomorrow? Yup, expect a lot of those moments here (we know we did).
These food joints will have more plot twists than a season of “Stranger Things,” so you better read on!
Sansotei Ramen
Website: http://www.sansotei.com/
Address: 153 Bank St.
Contact details: +1 613-695-1718
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 10 PM
Cost: $-$$
You’ve got to check out Sansotei Ramen if you’re in the mood for some seriously good noodles. Both their Tonkotsu and Miso Black are just epic with their rich, porky broth and perfectly chewy noodles.
They also serve amazing sides like pork gyoza, gyudon, and chicken wings that you shouldn’t miss out on. Moreover, the place nails a cool, minimalist vibe, so it’s super relaxing whether you’re popping in for lunch or dinner.
Plus, they are pretty consistent with their quality, so you’re guaranteed a good meal every single time.
| Pro tip: Sansotei doesn’t take reservations, and the place can fill up fast. Try hitting them upright when they open or during off-peak hours to skip the long wait. |
El Camino
Website: http://eatelcamino.com/
Address: 380 Elgin St.
Contact details: +1 613-422-2800
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday, Sunday – 5:30 PM to 11 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 5:30 PM to 12 AM
Cost: $-$$
If tacos and margaritas are your thing, swing by El Camino. Plus, they serve up some sweet tunes to keep the vibe just right all night.
Now, their taco lineup is just out of this world—think beef barbacoa, pork belly, crispy fish, ox tongue, and tuna tartare tacos.
The cocktail selection is top-notch, too, with whisky sour, El Fuego, 3 Amigos, and Camino Club being the most sought-after. But if you want a non-alcoholic treat, their homemade sodas are a refreshing choice.
| Pro tip: Given its popularity, securing a table can be challenging, especially on weekends or during peak dining hours. To ensure you don’t miss out on their renowned tacos and eclectic ambience, making a reservation well in advance is highly recommended. |
Wilf & Ada’s
Website: https://www.facebook.com/wilfandadasascratchdiner/
Address: 510 Bank St.
Contact details: +1 613-231-7959
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 2 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 8 AM to 2 PM
Cost: $-$$
Wilf & Ada’s is a treasure for all-day breakfast lovers. Their Eggs Benny choices like Florentine and Mariposa duck are a feast for the senses, along with the sausage and beans which, by the way, are crowds’s favourite.
Beyond the eggs, their diner-style sandwiches and poutine are just as delicious and comforting. Top it all off with a cup of their rich, house-blend coffee or fresh juice.
| Pro tip: They don’t take reservations, so plan to arrive early, especially on weekends. It’s worth getting up for, I promise! |
Riviera
Website: https://dineriviera.com/
Address: 62 Sparks St.
Contact details: +1 613-233-6262
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 5 PM to 10 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 5 PM to 11 PM
Cost: $$-$$$
Riviera is kind of like a swanky spot that has both classy and killer food. Their menu is a smorgasbord of luxurious bites like beef tartare, smoked duck, lobster spaghetti, and oysters that are, like, super fresh.
And for the love of all that is delicious, don’t skip their seafood tower; it’s unreal. Drink-wise, their cocktails are the real deal, with a solid whisky selection and original creations that are as creative as they are tasty.
The restaurant is all set up in this stunning historic bank building, so you’ve got high ceilings and grandeur all around you while you dine. Talk about dining in style, huh?
| Pro tip: Make sure you get yourself a reservation before you go. This place is popular for all the right reasons, and you won’t want to miss out on your chance to dine like royalty. |
Town
Website: http://www.townlovesyou.ca/
Address: 296 Elgin St.
Contact details: +1 613-695-8696
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 5 PM to 9 PM
Cost: $$
The Town keeps it simple, but, oh, so delicious. It’s got this “everyone knows your name” vibe, but, you know, with much better food.
Go for their amazing meatballs, spring chicken, or the swordfish Milanese if you’re feeling something from the sea. When it comes to washing it all down, Town’s wine list is a love letter to all things grape, and their beer game doesn’t disappoint either.
| Pro tip: After enjoying a meal at Town, make your experience even more memorable by exploring their bottle shop. They offer an exclusive selection of wines, many of which are not easily found elsewhere. |
Aroma Meze
Website: http://www.aromameze.com/
Address: 239 Nepean St.
Contact details: +1 613-421-0504
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Tuesday – 4:30 PM to 9 PM
- Wednesday and Thursday – 11:30 AM to 2 PM, 4:30 PM to 9 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 4:30 PM to 10 PM
Cost: $$
Aroma Meze has a green thumb, focusing on healthy, sustainable dishes that make you feel pretty good about what you’re eating.
Now, when it comes to food, you gotta grab yourself some of their beetroot towers, smoked salmon, shrimp gnocchi, lamb sliders and Greek poutine—they’re all so good.
They also boast international wines and some refreshing beers and mixed drinks, which you can check out. It’s like a mini Mediterranean vacation without the airfare.
| Pro tip: This place is popular among us locals, so to ensure you secure a spot and don’t miss out on this unique dining experience, making reservations well in advance is crucial. |
Aiana Restaurant Collective
Website: http://aiana.ca/
Address: 50 O’Connor St.
Contact details: +1 613-680-8100
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Saturday – 5 PM to 11 PM
Cost: $$-$$$
Aiana Restaurant’s menu is all about bold flavours and fresh ingredients. Expect to come across dishes like salmon, scallops, or AAA Alberta tenderloin that everyone can’t stop talking about.
And let’s not forget about their cocktails; we’re talking about expertly mixed drinks or choosing from their fine selection of wines that’ll have your taste buds partying. But Aiana isn’t just about what’s on your plate or in your glass.
This spot brings serious style with an open kitchen where you can catch all the action. It’s like dinner and a show, but the show is world-class chefs doing what they do best.
| Pro tip: If you really want to treat yourself, go for their tasting menu. It’s a culinary journey that’s worth every penny, and you’ll be talking about it for weeks! |
Beckta Dining & Wine
Website: http://www.beckta.com/
Address: 150 Elgin St.
Contact details: +1 613-238-7063
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 2 PM, 5 PM to 9 PM
- Friday – 11:30 AM to 2 PM, 5 PM to 10 PM
- Saturday – 5 PM to 10 PM
Cost: $$-$$$
Beckta Dining & Wine is where you head when you want to feel fancy without the fuss. Their elegant dining space is just the spot to celebrate something special or just make any ordinary Tuesday feel like a big deal.
Now, their steak tartare, grilled mackerel, beef striploin, and roasted duck make it feel like they’ve taken comfort food to a gourmet level. You can also aim for their 5-course tasting menu if you want to try a bit of everything.
Wine lovers, you’re in for a treat because Beckta’s wine list is like a treasure map to vino heaven, and their sommeliers know their stuff and can guide you to the perfect glass.
| Pro tip: Definitely, make a reservation. And if you’re feeling extra, ask for a spot in the wine bar for a more casual vibe but the same amazing food and drink. |
Cocotte Bistro
Website: https://cocottebistro.com/
Address: 123 Metcalfe St.
Contact details: +1 613-216-2912
Operating hours:
- Sunday and Monday – 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday – 7:30 AM to 10 PM
Cost: $$
Cocotte Bistro is a little slice of French cuisine right in downtown Ottawa. Their menu keeps it simple but oh so délicieux, featuring favourites like duck confit, steak frites, salmon and beef tartare.
Beyond these, you’ll also find salads and sandwiches, a couple of burgers and pasta. They’ve got a neat lineup of international wines too, all of which pair up with whatever you’re munching on.
| Pro tip: Cocotte Bistro offers an irresistible Happy Hour that you shouldn’t miss. From Sunday to Thursday, between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., you can enjoy a selection of fine wines and refreshing beers for just $8. |
1 Elgin Restaurant
– Media credit: ottfoodie
Website: https://nac-cna.ca/en/1elgin
Address: 1 Elgin St.
Contact details: +1 613-594-5127
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
Cost: $-$$
1 Elgin is all about elegance without pretence. You’re right there with a view of the Rideau Canal, which, let me tell you, is absolutely stunning.
Now, onto the food: this place serves up some seriously tasty plates like chicken schnitzel, mushroom and barley risotto, and for dessert, you can choose from their selection of sorbet and ice cream.
They also have a dedicated children’s menu, so your kids won’t be left out and spoilt for choices, too!
| Pro tip: 1 Elgin isn’t just known for its exquisite dining experience; it also offers an exceptional venue that can be hired for any party or special event. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering, a wedding, or a corporate event, 1 Elgin can happily cater to your specific needs. |
The Albion Rooms
Website: https://thealbionrooms.com/
Address: 33 Nicholas St.
Contact details: +1 613-760-4771
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 11 AM to 11 PM
Cost: $-$$
If you’re all about that hearty, farm-to-table kind of meal, The Albion Rooms is your spot. We’re talking charcuterie boards, Boston tacos, steak and frites, fresh oysters and fish and chips that’ll make you forget those you’ve had before.
Albion also boasts an extensive local selection of craft beers, wines, and signature cocktails. Plus, this place is big on supporting local artists and musicians, so you often get some live music to bob your head to while you dig in.
| Pro tip: They have a killer daily happy hour with discounts on both food and drinks. Perfect for when you want to unwind without emptying your wallet. |
The Whalesbone
Website: https://thewhalesbone.com/pages/bank-street
Address: 430 Bank St.
Contact details: +1 613-231-8569
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 4 PM to 10 PM
Cost: $-$$
Whalesbone is seafood heaven, no joke. Here, you’ll find fresh oysters, steamed mussels, lobsters and mackerels. Their bar’s stocked with all sorts of craft beers and wines that go just right with seafood.
It’s got a laid-back, almost beachy vibe that makes you feel like chilling out is the only way to go. And despite being inland, The Whalesbone makes it feel like the coast is just a stone’s throw away.
| Pro tip: The Whalesbone is not only a go-to spot for exceptional seafood dining; it also offers versatile gift cards and top-tier catering services that can take your special events to the next level. |
