Liam SmithA couple of months ago, I found myself drooling over the last slice of bread in my pantry, realising that store-bought bread was just not cutting it anymore. So, there I was thinking, “There has to be more to life than this!” (I know, I’m overreacting).
But that’s when I decided to find the best artisan bakeries in Ottawa. Fast forward to now, and I’ve become your kind of “local bakery connoisseur,” all in the name of delicious carbs.
To save you from the same sadness (or is it just me?), I’ve put together a list of the top artisan bakeries in Ottawa. Whether you’re a fan of crusty sourdough, flaky croissants, or pastries, you gotta check them out!
Art-Is-In Bakery
– Media credit: artisinbakery
Website: http://www.artisinbakery.com/
Address: 250 City Centre Ave #112
Contact details: +1 613-695-1226
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 9 AM to 3 AM
- Thursday to Saturday – 9 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 9 AM to 2 PM
Cost: $$
Art-Is-In Bakery is a total game-changer if you’re a bread lover. They have everything from classic sourdough and rustic baguettes to incredibly flavorful focaccia.
And the best part is that they keep it real with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. But let’s talk about pastries, because their offerings are amazing. Think croissants, danishes, and pain au chocolat.
If you’re into sweets, they’ve got an assortment of cakes and cookies that are absolutely droolworthy. Plus, they’ve got a few savoury items like sandwiches and quiches that make for an excellent lunch option.
| Pro tip: If you can, go early. Their stuff sells out pretty quickly, so being there first thing in the morning ensures you get the pick of the best goodies! |
Nat’s Bread Company
– Media credit: natsbreadco
Website: http://www.natsbreadcompany.com/
Address: 857 Boyd Ave.
Contact details: +1 613 715 1356
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 7 AM to 3 PM
Cost: $$
Nat’s Bread Company is super popular for their commitment to traditional bread-making methods. They specialise in a variety of breads, but their rye and sourdough loaves are the stars of the show.
Besides their signature breads, they also offer fantastic buns and rolls, perfect for burgers and sandwiches. And if you’re in the mood to experiment at home, they sometimes sell their sourdough starter!
Nat’s even runs a bread subscription service, where you can get a curated selection of their freshest bakes delivered to your doorstep.
| Pro tip: They usually have a small batch of special seasonal breads, so ask them if they have any limited-time offerings. Also, their bread freezes really well, so don’t be afraid to stock up! |
True Loaf Bread Company
– Media credit: trueloafbread
Website: http://www.trueloaf.ca/
Address: 573 Gladstone Ave.
Contact details: +1 613 680 4178
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 7 AM to 1 PM
Cost: $
True Loaf Bread Company is one of those gems that you’re going to want to revisit over and over again. Located in a charming little spot, they focus on creating everything from scratch.
You’ll find a variety of options like white, whole wheat, and multi-grain, all baked to golden perfection. But that’s not all they have since True Loaf also offers a delightful line-up of pastries like coconut oat cookie, chocolate chip brioche, and more.
| Pro tip: Their morning buns are highly sought after and sell out quickly, so make it a point to get there early if you want to snag one. Also, they offer bread-making workshops occasionally, so keep an eye out for those if you’re interested in learning the craft. |
Dolci Sapori
– Media credit: dolcisapori_ottawa
Website: https://www.dolcisaporicafe.ca/
Address: 939 Somerset St., W.
Contact details: +1 613 230 7535
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 8 AM to 7 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 8 AM to 8 PM
Cost: $$
Dolci Sapori is where Italian baking meets Ottawa charm. This bakery is all about authentic Italian pastries, cakes, and bread, from the famous tiramisu and chocolate caramel to sweet treats like chocolate mousse and Ferrero rocher.
Their biscotti is fantastic—crunchy, flavourful, and perfect for dipping into a hot cup of coffee. Also, if you love gelato, you’re in luck—they offer some amazing flavours, during the summer months.
| Pro tip: Remember to keep an eye out for their holiday specials, especially Italian Christmas bread like panettone. These are only available for a limited time and are totally worth picking up. |
The SconeWitch
– Media credit: ypandaroo
Website: http://sconewitch.ca/
Address: 150 Elgin St.
Contact details: +1 613 232 2173
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 4 PM
Cost: $$
The SconeWitch whip up these incredible scones that go beyond just a breakfast item; they’re almost a rite of passage for anyone new to the city. They’ve got flavours ranging from classic buttery to lemon poppy seed or herb and garlic.
They also offer a variety of house-made jams and clotted cream that you’ll want to slather on generously. Something probably unique to this spot is their “SconeWitch” sandwiches, where they use their fresh scones as bread.
Besides the scones, they have soups, salads, and a decent selection of teas and coffees that pair perfectly with their baked goods. You can also find gluten-free options, so dietary restrictions won’t keep you from enjoying these amazing treats.
| Pro tip: If you’re planning to grab a bite during peak hours, try pre-ordering online—it saves you from waiting in line and ensures they don’t run out of your favourite scones. |
Bread & Sons Bakery
– Media credit: breadandsons
Website: http://www.breadandsons.com/
Address: 195 Bank St.
Contact details: +1 613 230 5302
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 2 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 1 PM
Cost: $$$
Bread & Sons Bakery makes everything from scratch and uses organic ingredients whenever possible, which really comes through in every bite. You’ll find options like flaky croissants, savoury quiches, and delightful muffins.
Their sourdough loaf is practically famous and something you should definitely grab if you’re planning a meal at home. Their coffee complements all these baked goods perfectly, providing a well-rounded experience.
If you’re vegan or have certain food allergies, this place has got you covered with a variety of options. Oh, and don’t miss out on their pizzas—they put forth a solid effort in creating unique, tasty options that keep customers coming back.
| Pro tip: Try to swing by early in the morning if you want to snag a fresh loaf of bread; they sell out pretty quickly! |
Ideal Cafe
– Media credit: idealcoffeeottawa
Website: http://www.idealcoffees.com/
Address: 176 Dalhousie St.
Contact details: +1 613 562 1775
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 5 PM
Cost: $$
Ideal Cafe goes beyond your typical café offerings with an impressive lineup of baked delights. Think everything from rustic baguettes to delightful pastries.
One of the standouts has to be their almond croissants—they’re flaky, buttery, and bursting with an almond filling. And, of course, their coffee is exceptional.
They offer a range of blends that cater to every palate, from rich and robust to light and fruity. Besides the fantastic food and drinks, Ideal Cafe is also the spot for anyone wanting to take some time out or catch up on work, thanks to their free internet.
| Pro tip: Ideal Cafe offers some gluten-free and vegan options that are equally delicious. Also, their famous chocolate chip cookies tend to sell out quickly, so if that’s what you’re craving, make it your priority to arrive early. |
SuzyQ Doughnuts Hintonburg
– Media credit: suzyq.doughnuts
Website: http://www.suzyq.ca/
Address: 1015 Wellington St. W.
Contact details: +1 613-724-2451
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 7 AM to 6 PM
- Friday – 7 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday – 8 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 8 AM to 6 PM
Cost: $$
SuzyQ Doughnuts Hintonburg is where you’ll find doughnut heaven in Ottawa. From classic sugar-dusted to wildly inventive flavours like maple bacon, their variety keeps you coming back for more.
It’s hard to leave with only one, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself grabbing a box to-go. Each doughnut is made fresh daily, and their seasonal flavours are something to keep an eye on—they get pretty creative.
If you’re into something savoury, their doughnut sandwiches are a must-try. They even have vegan options that are as tasty as the regular ones, which is pretty awesome.
| Pro tip: Remember to keep tabs on their social media for limited-time flavours or special events; it’s the best way to catch something new and exciting. |
Bread By Us
– Media credit: breadbyus
Website: http://www.breadbyus.com/
Address: 1065 Wellington St. W.
Contact details: +1 613 422 5300
Operating hours:
- Thursday and Friday – 8 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 4 PM
Cost: $$$
Bread By Us is where you want to go if you’re serious about artisanal bread. They bake everything from scratch and use locally sourced, organic ingredients.
Their sourdough is legendary—crusty on the outside and beautifully chewy on the inside. Beyond bread, they offer a selection of pastries, including mouth-watering danishes and croissants.
They also make an incredible focaccia, loaded with seasonal toppings—a definite must-try!
| Pro tip: Bread By Us also offers top-notch catering services featuring their incredible range of breads and pastries. So next time you need to impress your guests, keep Bread By Us in mind for a delicious and memorable experience! |
Les Moulins La Fayette
– Media credit: lesmoulinslafayette
Website: http://lesmoulinslafayette.com/
Address: 1000 Wellington St. W #103
Contact details: +1 613 680 5653
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday, Sunday – 8 AM to 3 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 8 AM to 4 PM
Cost: $$$
Les Moulins La Fayette offers a taste of French baking right here in Ottawa. They’re known for their phenomenal bread and pastries, with options like baguettes, brioche buns, and their notable Parisian pastries.
The shop’s éclairs and fruit tarts are definitely worth your attention. You’ll also find a lovely assortment of quiches if you’re in the mood for something savoury.
Aside from pastries, you can order a sandwich made with their freshly baked bread, which is simply a delight to the taste buds. They also have a variety of gourmet coffees and teas to complement your meal.
| Pro tip: Make sure you keep an eye out for their daily special pastries that are often not listed on the regular menu. They’re a pleasant surprise and worth trying! |
Mamie Clafoutis Ottawa
– Media credit: _mamieclafoutis
Website: http://www.mamieclafoutis.com/ottawa/
Address: 400 Richmond Rd.
Contact details: +1 613 729 9923
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 6 PM
Cost: $$$
Mamie Clafoutis Ottawa will take you on a sweet journey with its array of delicious French pastries. Their specialty cakes and tarts are the main attractions, but don’t sleep on their smaller treats like madeleines and palmier cookies.
Their bread selection includes crusty baguettes and tender brioche, perfect for any occasion. You’ll also find savoury options like quiches and croque monsieur, excellent for a hearty brunch.
Of course, you can pair your choices with their selection of beverages, including rich hot chocolate and freshly brewed coffee.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss their almond croissants and maple roll—they’re often cited as the best in the city, and they sell out fast, so go early. |
La Maison du Kouign-Amann
– Media credit: lamaisondukouignamann
Website: http://lamaisondukouignamann.com/
Address: 101 A Schneider Rd., Kanata
Contact details: +1 613 270 0505
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 8 AM to 5 PM
Cost: $$
La Maison du Kouign-Amann specialises in the exquisite Breton pastry called kouign-amann, which is known for its irresistible layers of buttery, caramelised goodness. If you’ve never tried one, this place should be on your must-visit list.
Apart from kouign-amann, they also offer a variety of other French pastries and breads that are just as delicious. For something savoury, they have a selection of quiches and filled pastries that are sure to satisfy.
They also offer a good range of beverages, perfect for pairing with any of their mouthwatering goodies.
| Pro tip: Their kouign-amann is a crowd favourite and sells out quickly, especially on weekends, so try to get there early if that’s what you’re after. |
