Liam SmithWe’ve all been there – that post-midnight stomach growl louder than any party. The fridge is bare, the usual takeout spots are closed, and a sad salad just won’t cut it. But who says the best eats should stop when the sun sets?
Ottawa has a vibrant late-night food scene waiting to be explored. Forget sleep, it’s time for a culinary adventure right here in our city! Be ready to ditch the hangry (hungry & angry) vibes and discover the hidden gems that keep Ottawa fueled long after the rest of the world has called it a night.
s o m e w h e r e dine bar
– Media from somewhereottawa
Location: 110 Murray St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5M6, Canada
Contact: +1 613-562-7244
Pricing: $$$
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Have you ever been in Ottawa past midnight with a serious case of the munchies? If so, s o m e w h e r e dine bar might just become your new best friend. This spot is a lifesaver for late-night eats, staying open until 2 AM every single day of the week!
This spot takes comfort food to the next level, with gourmet twists on classics and influences from Canadian, North American, and even French cuisines. Think elevated mac and cheese or fresh oysters paired with amazing cocktails.
Plus, they’ve got healthy options and vegetarian dishes like their Basil Pesto Pappardelle (a mix of tiger shrimp, pesto cream sauce, cherry tomatoes, and aged parmesan).
Union Local 613
– Media from 613union613
Location: 315 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K2P 0J8, Canada
Contact: +1 613-231-1010
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Monday to Tuesday – 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Wednesday to Thursday – 3:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday – 3:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Saturday – 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
This spot throws down Southern-inspired comfort food with style, and their kitchen keeps those crave-worthy dishes coming late into the night (2 AM on weekends, midnight during the week!).
Once you’re here, make sure to be ready to try their crispy fried chicken with a side of creamy pimento cheese, hushpuppies that practically melt in your mouth, and those must-try Smoked Trout Deviled Eggs.
Plus, their atmosphere is as warm and inviting as their biscuits – expect cozy booths, a buzzing bar, and that perfect vintage-meets-modern vibe. Oh, and did we mention their cocktails? Let’s just say they understand the assignment.
El Camino
– Media from eatelcamino
Location: 380 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1M9, Canada
Contact: +1 613-422-2800
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday & Sunday – 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 5:30 PM to 12:00 AM
This place consistently tops the “best late-night eats” lists for a reason. First, the kitchen stays open well past the witching hour. Second, their tacos are the stuff of legend: fresh tortillas, vibrant fillings, and a whole lot of flavour.
But El Camino isn’t just a taco joint. They’ve got killer margaritas, an impressive tequila selection, and a buzzing, energetic vibe. It’s the perfect spot to either kick off or wind down a great night out.
And a pro tip: check out their betel leaf starters. They’re an explosion of fresh, Southeast Asian flavours that’ll get your tastebuds dancing.
Prohibition Public House
– Media from prohibitionhouse
Location: 337 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K2P 0J8, Canada
Contact: +1 613-565-2704
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 5:00 PM to 11:30 PM
- Friday – 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 11:30 PM
Prohibition Public House will transport you straight into the stylish swagger of a classic New York gastropub, complete with wood accents, vintage touches, and a whole lot of atmosphere.
Their kitchen stays open well past midnight, dishing out elevated comfort food with a gourmet spin. We’re talking gourmet mac and cheese, crispy calamari with a zesty kick, or their signature Prohibition Burger that’s a serious contender for the city’s best.
Thr33’s Co. Snack Bar
– Media from thr33sco.snackbar
Location: 589 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3T4, Canada
Contact: +1 613-422-9300
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Friday to Sunday – 2:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Forget the standard bar fare – this Glebe gem takes small plates to a whole new level, packing a punch in both creativity and taste.
The real magic lies in their vibrant menu. Whether you crave something as comforting as crispy tofu or as indulgent as sumptuously cooked scallops, Thr33’s has the culinary chops to deliver.
And if you’re a drink aficionado, this place doesn’t disappoint. They’re a sanctuary for gin lovers with a curated menu featuring an impressive selection of this juniper-infused spirit.
Kettlemans Bagel
– Media from kettlemans
Location: 912 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3W6, Canada
Contact: +1 613-567-7100
Pricing: $
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
This beloved institution is a beacon of carby goodness available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether you’re wrapping up a wild night out or battling a midnight study-session slump, Kettlemans is there to satisfy your cravings.
Must-try dishes here extend beyond the plain and poppy seed to include lemon cranberry, sesame seeds, garlic, and an array of specialty items like the mini and bozo bagel.
But perhaps what truly sets this place apart is its array of sandwiches – the California Club, Kettleman’s Special, and the beloved BLT, to name just a few.
Elgin Street Diner
– Media from elginstreetdiner
Location: 374 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1N1, Canada
Contact: +1 613-237-9700
Pricing: $
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
At Elgin Street Diner, you’ll find stacks of fluffy pancakes practically defying gravity, sizzling skillets piled high with breakfast staples, and – if you’re feeling truly indulgent – poutine variations that’ll quell the fiercest craving.
This place nails classic diner fare with portions that won’t leave you disappointed. Pro tip: don’t underestimate their milkshakes. They’re thick, creamy, and the perfect sweet nightcap.
But it’s not just food. There’s a comforting energy here – a buzzing hum of conversations, the cheerful clatter of dishes, and a staff with the kind of friendly warmth that makes you feel like a regular (even on your first visit!).
The Brig Pub
– Media from brigpubottawa
Location: 23 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S7, Canada
Contact: +1 613-562-6666
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 2:00 AM
- Saturday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Tucked away in the heart of the ByWard Market, this beloved spot keeps the party going (and the deliciousness flowing) well past the standard dinner hour.
Their kitchen serves up comfort food classics with a gourmet twist, making standard pub grub a whole lot more exciting. Fan favourites include the Fish & Chips with Sweet Potato, the juicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich, and – an absolute must-try – the decadent Duck Confit Poutine.
The Brig’s late-night menu is especially clutch. Expect satisfying snacks like Fries with garlic aioli, General Tso’s Cauliflower, and the Buffalo Chicken Wrap.
Chez Lucien
– Media from chezlucienottawa
Location: 137 Murray St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5M7, Canada
Contact: +1 613-241-3533
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
Chez Lucien is a haven for both meat lovers and veggie enthusiasts alike, thanks to their mix of American and North American cuisine with a special focus on vegetarian options.
Speaking of options, get ready for burgers so juicy they’ve earned legendary status in Ottawa. But Chez Lucien isn’t a one-trick pony – think uniquely crafted entrees and a killer Duck Confit that’ll convert even the most skeptical carnivore.
And let’s not forget the cocktails! They’re the perfect wingman (or wing-woman) to any dish on the menu.
Sir John A Pub
– Media from sirjohnaelgin
Location: 284 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1M3, Canada
Contact: +1 613-567-2746
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
Sir John A Pub is where deliciousness and good times collide, even during the late-night hours.
What sets Sir John A Pub apart is their fresh take on classic pub grub. Think crispy fish and chips, flavourful sampler platters, and a menu with options for both Canadian and gluten-free diets.
Whether you’re craving a burger with the works or something on the healthier side, they’ve got you covered. And don’t forget about their signature Sir JA Pale Ale – the perfect sidekick for any meal.
Zak’s Diner Elgin St
– Media from zaksdiner
Location: 220 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1L7, Canada
Contact: +1 613-421-0038
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Zak Diner knows that variety is the spice of life, especially when hunger strikes. From fluffy pancakes and perfectly cooked eggs to milkshakes topped with whipped cream mountains, they’ve got all the breakfast and diner staples you crave.
Feeling adventurous? Try the Mac & Cheese Burger with Onion Rings! Craving comfort? The traditional English Breakfast or a soul-warming bowl of Quebecer Poutine will hit the spot.
The Koven
– Media from thekovenottawa
Location: 93 Murray St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5M5, Canada
Contact: +1 613-422-5666
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM
This Sussex Drive spot has earned a reputation for its killer food, vibrant atmosphere, and kitchen that keeps the deliciousness flowing past those standard hours.
Here, you’ll find gourmet mac and cheese, stacked sandwiches to conquer those serious hunger pangs, and shareable plates perfect for fueling a whole crew.
With its dark ambiance accented with hues of purple and red, The Koven invites you to tap into your inner metalhead while enjoying some of the best burgers in town.
Atomic Rooster
– Media from atomicroosterottawa
Location: 303 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1X7, Canada
Contact: +1 613-569-1000
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Tuesday – 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Wednesday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Saturday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM
Atomic Rooster is all about those juicy burgers with all the fixings, crispy calamari that’ll make you rethink takeout, and those half-priced wings on Wednesdays that are perfect for sharing (or not, we won’t judge).
Plus, they cater to the health-conscious with salads and lighter bites, so you can still feel good about those late-night snacks.
But Atomic Rooster isn’t just about the eats. The atmosphere is stylishly retro – think funky artwork, cozy booths, and a lively energy that’ll perk you right up.
Irene’s Pub Restaurant
– Media from irenespub
Location: 885 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3W4, Canada
Contact: +1 613-230-4474
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Saturday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM
The kitchen at Irene’s knows how to satisfy those cravings. They serve up hearty pub classics like crispy fish and chips and satisfying snacks perfect for those post-midnight hunger pangs.
Want a must-try? Get your hands on their legendary brisket sandwich – it’s the kind of smoky, savoury deliciousness that’ll haunt your dreams (not a nightmare though). Plus, they offer lighter and vegetarian options too!
Now, about their vibe: Irene’s is where live music is king. Whether you catch an up-and-coming local band or a seasoned blues jam session, the energy is infectious.
