Ethan BrownLittle Italy is a slice of Italian culture, right in Ottawa. With its roots stretching back to the early 20th century, when the first Italian immigrants made their homes here, Little Italy has grown into a lively community brimming with an unmistakable European vibe.
Over the years, Little Italy has evolved, offering everything from mouth-watering gastronomy to unique shopping experiences and cosy places to stay. So read on and explore Little Italy with our guide.
Time Zone
Central European Standard Time (GMT+1)
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Little Italy in Ottawa is definitely during the summer months, from June to August.
This is the time when the streets come alive with vibrant festivals, outdoor patios are buzzing with energy, and the warm weather just makes you want to stroll along Corso Italia, gelato in hand.
Plus, if you time it right, you could catch the Italian Week festival, where the food, music, and entertainment are kind of next level.
Things to Know
Currency: Canadian Dollar
(Check the current exchange rate)
Language: English
Calling Code: +613
How to Get Around Little Italy
Trains: The nearest light rail station is Bayview, conveniently connecting you to the rest of Ottawa. It’s a swift and scenic way to get here and start your Little Italy adventure.
Buses: OC Transpo‘s bus service is your go-to for reaching Little Italy. Several routes drop you within walking distance of all the action, making it a breeze to explore the neighbourhood without breaking a sweat.
Taxis: Taxis are plentiful and easy to flag down in Little Italy, like the Capital Taxi, offering a direct and hassle-free ride to wherever you’re headed in any part of the neighbourhood.
Car service: For a more personalised experience, consider booking a car service. Apps like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient, on-demand way to navigate Little Italy in style and comfort.
Where to Stay in Little Italy
The Westin
Address: 11 Colonel By Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9H4, Canada
Phone: +1 613-560-7000
Pricing: $-$$
The Westin Ottawa features two on-site restaurants, and an indoor saltwater pool, along with their ultra-comfy suites that give the word ‘comfort’ a whole new meaning.
Now, if you want to keep up with your fitness routine, they’ve got a 24/7 fitness studio. For those who enjoy a good morning jog, the Rideau Canal pathway is just a few strides away.
| Pro tip: If you’re headed out shopping, the connected Rideau Centre Shopping Mall is a shopaholic’s paradise with numerous stores and restaurants. So save some room in your suitcase! |
Le Germain Hotel Ottawa
Address: 30 Daly Ave, Ottawa, ON K1N 6E2, Canada
Phone: +1 613-691-3230
Pricing: $$
Book Now
Le Germain Hotel is a modern sanctuary located right smack on Daly Avenue. This hotel features a fitness centre, a stunning rooftop terrace with breathtaking city views, and an artful ambience waiting to envelop you.
Moreover, their rooms are no joke either, with their uber-luxury beds, rainfall showers, and Nespresso coffee machines—perfect if you love making your coffee.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to check out their Norca Restaurant & Bar, a gastronomical spectacle that recreates Canada’s culinary landscape to the core. Their menu uses only local, sustainable, and seasonal products. |
reStays Luxury Boutique Hotel
Address: 101 Queen St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5C7, Canada
Phone: +1 833-996-6200
Pricing: $-$$
Book Now
reStays Luxury Boutique Hotel’s mantra is “homelike accommodations with the luxury of a hotel.” You’ll find a different kind of charm here—there’s a full-service kitchen with modern appliances, a washer and dryer, and roomy sitting areas in all their units.
Essentially, you get to enjoy the city’s bustling life during the day and retreat to your little cosy cocoon when the sun dips or even play in their game room.
| Pro tip: If you’re planning a stay at the reStays Luxury Boutique Hotel, make sure to book two nights or more. It’s because, at reStays, your second night comes with a whopping 50% discount! |
Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Downtown
Address: 361 Queen St, Ottawa, ON K1R 0C7, Canada
Phone: +1 613-234-6363
Pricing: $$
Book Now
The Hilton Garden Inn in Ottawa’s downtown has a contemporary style that extends from its chic lobby to the stylish guest rooms. Each suite comes equipped with a mini-fridge, a microwave, and a large workspace for those ‘work-cation’ days.
They also have an indoor heated pool and a fitness centre to boot.
| Pro tip: Their on-site Tulip Bar and Restaurant is perfect if buffet breakfast is your kind of thing. Meanwhile, by night, it offers a great selection of cocktails, craft beers, and wines. |
Lord Elgin Hotel
Address: 100 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5K8, Canada
Phone: +1 800-267-4298
Pricing: $-$$
Book Now
The Lord Elgin Hotel is a dash of old-world charm mixed with modern sensibilities, which sums up this hotel perfectly. Here, you’ll find rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows with available Wi-Fi, iPod docks, and TVs, plus Keurig coffeemakers.
Its amenities include an indoor pool, a whirlpool, a sauna, and a fitness centre.
| Pro tip: Make sure to dine at their 41 Restaurant. Operating under the ‘farm to table’ philosophy, it offers a varied menu using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. |
Where to Eat in Little Italy
Giovanni’s Restaurant
Address: 362 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1S 4M7, Canada
Phone: +1 613-234-3156
Pricing: $$-$$$
Website
Giovanni’s Restaurant has been a pioneer of gourmet Italian cuisine since the 1980s, and it brings a lot to the table, from heavenly ossobuco alla Piemontese to mare e terra (lobster tail and filet mignon) and spaghetti alla carbonara.
Not to mention, Giovanni’s also boasts an extensive Italian wine list featuring everything from white and red wines to sparkling wines, champagne, and more.
| Pro tip: Make sure to try to leave room for their homemade Tiramisu; it’s divine! |
Pub Italia
Address: 434 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1S 4N4, Canada
Phone: +1 613-232-2326
Pricing: $-$$
Website
Known for its brew-filled Bible (literally a bible-like menu of 200 varieties of domestic and international beers, along with wines and cocktails), Pub Italia is a fantastic spot to go for a drink.
When it comes to food, the menu is a crowd-pleaser with its wide variety of pizzas, chicken wraps, nachos, and salads.
| Pro tip: Make sure to explore their Vintage Italian Moto Museum! It’s a hidden gem within the pub, showcasing a fascinating collection of classic Italian motorcycles. |
EVOO Greek Kitchen
Address: 438 1/2 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1S 4N4, Canada
Phone: +1 613-695-3860
Pricing: $$
Website
Known for its fresh, modern take on Greek cuisine, EVOO Greek Kitchen takes you on a gastronomic trip to Greece. Their menu is flooded with a variety of traditional and nouveau foods like spanakopita, souvlaki, and moussaka.
Moreover, you can also indulge in some of their grilled meats, like premium lamb chops, rib steak, and the EVOO Board (Canadian prime cowboy rib steak).
| Pro tip: EVOO offers gift cards, making for an exceptional gift for friends who also love Greek cuisine. Moreover, they are fully equipped to cater to your parties or any special events. |
The Prescott
Address: 379 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1S 4N1, Canada
Phone: +1 613-232-4217
Pricing: $-$$
Website
Just around the corner, you’ll come across The Prescott, an Ottawa institution since 1934, well-known for its square pizza and meatball sandwiches. Beyond their signatures, their pasta dishes are absolute crowd-pleasers that you shouldn’t miss.
For those who fancy a bit of sportsmanship, The Prescott offers darts and pool tables. Not to mention, they even host live music every Friday, so you’ll know there’s no dull moment here.
| Pro tip: Make sure to check their schedule or inquire ahead, as they frequently host trivia nights, which can be a blast for groups looking for a fun and competitive evening. |
Trattoria Caffè Italia
Address: 254 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1R 7R4, Canada
Phone: +1 613-236-1081
Pricing: $-$$
Website
Trattoria Caffè Italia is a family-owned business serving up fine Italian cuisine. You’ll find here their best-sellers, like the beef carpaccio and antipasto Italiano, along with their hand-tossed pizzas and expertly crafted pasta dishes.
It also boasts an extensive wine list that complements every meal perfectly. And for those with dietary restrictions, worry not, since they have a dedicated gluten-free menu.
| Pro tip: Make sure to check out their dinner bundle specials for a curated dining experience. And, for an added touch of personalization, they offer “Bring Your Own Wine” (BYOW) every Sunday and Monday, so check out their website for more details about this offer. |
What to Do in Little Italy
Discover vibrant culture at the Corso Italia mural
Address: 125 Preston Street, Ottawa, Canada
Phone:
Website
If you’re all about soaking in culture with a capital C, then you absolutely can’t miss the Corso Italia Mural. The mural is a vibrant, kaleidoscopic celebration of Italian heritage.
It serves as a perfect backdrop for those Instagram-worthy shots, sure, but it’s also a reflection of the community’s spirit. You can just grab a gelato, take a stroll, and let the colours and images tell you their stories.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to head over in the late afternoon when the light is just perfect for photography. |
Visit the historic St. Anthony of Padua Church
– Media credit: monsieurlebun
Address: 427 Booth St, Ottawa, ON K1R 7K8, Canada
Phone: +1 613-236-2304
Website
The St. Anthony of Padua Church is a cornerstone of Little Italy, Ottawa, blending faith, architecture, and community in one gorgeous package.
It’s renowned for its breathtaking interiors—think awe-inspiring frescoes, stained glass windows, and an ambience that somehow feels both ancient and alive.
The bonus here is attending a service or simply sitting in quiet reflection, which can offer a rare moment of serenity in our all-too-busy lives.
| Pro tip: Remember to check out the church’s event calendar before you go. If you can, time your visit to coincide with one of the community festivals or the famous Italian Week. |
Enjoy cycling at Dominion Arboretum
Address: Arboretum, Ottawa, ON K1A 0C6, Canada
Phone: +1 613-759-1982
Website
Cycling around Dominion Arboretum is a fantastic way to soak in the serene and natural beauty of Ottawa. With its incredibly diverse and rare trees, the Arboretum makes you feel like you are riding through an outdoor tree museum.
Every path you take is flooded with beautiful views of the landscape. But it doesn’t end with cycling; the Arboretum also offers excellent spots for picnics, leisure walks, and birdwatching to give you a well-rounded, nature-filled experience.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss out on the Ornamental Gardens nearby, they’re picture-perfect for a relaxing finish to your cycling tour. |
Catch a show at the Gladstone Theatre
Address: 910 Gladstone Ave, Ottawa, ON K1R 6Y4, Canada
Phone: +1 613-233-4523
Website
The Gladstone Theatre hosts diverse performances, giving the community a chance to catch local arthouse productions as well as touring shows.
With a wide range of genres, including drama, comedy, musicals, and even magic shows, there is something to suit everyone’s taste. It’s the heart of arts and culture in Little Italy.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to grab a drink at the bar and enjoy it during the show; drinks are allowed in the theatre. |
Attend the Italian Week Festival
Address: N/A
Phone: [email protected]
Website
No trip to Little Italy is complete without attending the Italian Week Festival. It’s a phenomenal celebration of rich Italian culture, filled with music, food, art, and colourful parades, which happens on June 6–16.
During this week, you can indulge in authentic Italian food, enjoy live performances, participate in Italian car shows, or simply stroll around, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
| Pro tip: The grand finale of the festival, ‘Grand Finale,’ is a majestic treat not to miss, so plan your festival visit to coincide with this spectacle. |
Where to Shop in Little Italy
Goody Mart
Address: 141 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1R 7P4, Canada
Phone: N/A
Website
Goody Mart is a hub for vintages and thrifted goods from around the globe. The shelves here are stocked with an assortment of women’s and men’s clothing, vintage kinds of music and movies, and pop culture magazines.
Moreover, it also offers an assortment of unique novelty items and gifts, as well as vintage games, perfect for those who are looking to pick up something different.
| Pro tip: Make sure you keep an eye out on their Instagram account for the announcement of their weekly sales. |
Vincent Boutique
Address: 444 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1S 4N6, Canada
Phone: +1 613-680-4277
Website
Vincent Boutique stands out for its prime location and curated selection of women’s clothing, jewellery, handbags, and denim. Their handbags range from sleek, professional designs to fun and quirky pieces.
The constant buzz around their latest arrivals in clothing and handbags is something you can’t ignore.
| Pro tip: For those with a heart for both style and social good, Vincent Boutique’s Spring Donation Drive is an event you shouldn’t miss. It’s a fantastic opportunity to give back, with the boutique often offering incentives for donations in the form of discounts. |
Passé
Address: 193 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1R 7P8, Canada
Phone: +1 613-291-5221
Website
Passé specializes in vintage men’s and women’s clothing. They have everything from retro dresses that echo the spirited 60s to classic leather jackets that carry the rugged charm of the 80s.
Their offerings range from everyday wear to statement pieces, perfect for those special occasions when you want to stand out from the crowd. Among the racks, you’ll find best-selling items like high-waisted denim jeans, oversized t-shirts, and floral midi skirts.
| Pro tip: Schedule your visit during off-peak hours, preferably on a weekday morning or early afternoon, to get the most attentive service. |
Flamingo Boutique
Address: 980 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2X8, Canada
Phone: +1 613-686-6250
Website
Flamingo Boutique offers a colourful array of gifts, clothing, and jewellery. It’s the go-to place for finding that perfect, unique gift or just something special to brighten your day (or outfit).
The boutique prides itself on stocking a range of local and Canadian-made items, supporting home-grown talent. So, shopping here is also about making a positive impact on the local community.
| Pro tip: Remember to keep an eye on their social media for pop-up sales, which often feature substantial discounts on seasonal items. |
Plant & Curio
Address: 173 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1R 7P6, Canada
Phone: +1 613-422-0222
Website
Plant & Curio is all about bringing the outdoors in with a variety of houseplants, succulents, and rare plant finds that add a touch of green to any room. The store offers a variety of plants, like easy-care plants, uncommon ones, and even pet-friendly plants.
It’s not just plants on offer; the store has a selection of unique pots and plant accessories to ensure your new green friends have a stylish home. And if you’re looking for advice on plant care, their knowledgeable staff is always eager to share tips.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to check their workshop schedule. They offer sessions on terrarium building and plant care for those looking to expand their botanical knowledge. |
