Liam SmithWhen we talk about pretzels, one might assume they’re an American thing. But surprise! They’re actually a European creation that’s super popular in Germany.
Fast forward to the late 18th century, and pretzels made their way to North America, quickly becoming a favourite snack. Nowadays, you’ll find pretzels, or brezeln, in almost all German restaurants around Ottawa.
If you’re hungry for this delectable pastry or just want a taste of Deutschland in general, check out these hotspots below!
Where can I eat German food around Ottawa?
There are a couple of restaurants where you can eat German food around Ottawa. You can swing by Wolf Down, Bier Markt, or Duna Bistro for a taste of Deutschland right here in the city.
Wolf Down
– Media from www.instagram.com/wolf.down
Website: http://www.wolfdown.com/
Address: 380 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1Y4, Canada
Contact Details: +1 613-421-4054, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11 AM to 12 AM
- Saturday to Sunday – 11 AM to 1 AM
Pricing: CAD 10 – 20
Wolf Down puts a fresh spin on German street food right here in Ottawa. With the restaurant’s sleek, counter-serve setup, we believe it’s perfect for a chill meal with pals or a quick solo snack.
The place seems to have nailed the German-style döner kebab (grilled meat sandwich wrap), so we feel it’s a must-try. Alternatively, you can select the square buns loaded with your fave protein, veggies, and the joint’s signature secret sauce!
But if you’re not in the mood for bread, no worries. The restaurant also offers hearty rice bowls to keep you full. And what’s cool for us is that, despite the small menu, there’s something for everyone with vegan, gluten-free, and halal options.
| Pro tip: Last time we checked, Wolf Down was a cashless joint. So it’s best to bring your cards or digital wallet. Of course, if you’re tipping the staff, that’s a different story. |
Bier Markt
– Media from thebiermarktottawa
Website: https://www.thebiermarkt.com/en/locations/on/ottawa/156-sparks-st
Address: 156 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 6L1, Canada
Contact Details: +1 613-780-7575
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Monday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM
Pricing: CAD 20 – 40
Bier Markt offers a fantastic taste of Germany in the city. With its cozy brick walls, comfy black and red seats, and inviting lighting, the ambiance sets the perfect mood. Just choose between indoor dining or relaxing under the red umbrellas on the outdoor patio.
The menu is also a delightful fusion of Canadian and German cuisines, featuring mouthwatering options like calamari, chicken breasts, and beef dip. For a hearty meal, we say don’t miss out on the signature Markt burger or the beef brisket sandwich.
And for dessert (desserts Ottawa)? We think the brezeln (German pretzel), ice cream, and doughnuts steal the spotlight! Wash it all down with the draft beer, cider, or wine (wine tasting Ottawa). Otherwise, there’s also a root beer float for a refreshing twist!
| Pro tip: Can’t choose among the extensive beer options? We say try the “flights” at Bier Markt! This way, you get to sample 4 different brews (breweries Ottawa) at once in smaller glasses—an awesome way to taste a bunch of different flavours without breaking the bank! |
Duna Bistro
– Media from dunabistro
Website: http://dunabistro.com/
Address: 2130 Robertson Rd, Nepean, ON K2H 5Z1, Canada
Contact Details: +1 613-808-8346
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 4 PM to 8 PM
- Monday – Closed
Pricing: CAD 30 – 50
Duna Bistro is a German dining spot in Ottawa that lures you in with its unassuming facade. But inside, you might discover a whole new world of European culinary delights.
It’s a snug space adorned with classic decor—think white tablecloths and twinkling chandeliers! For us, it’s like stumbling upon a hidden treasure right in the Bells Corners neighbourhood. Plus, we find it handy that the tables aren’t too close to one another.
As for the food, we find the feast of German classics incredible! From schnitzel (breaded and fried meat cutlet) and spätzle (egg noodles) to hearty goulash (beef stew soup), we think this joint represents the different dishes of Deutschland really well.
| Pro tip: Duna Bistro might not have their liquor license sorted just yet, so that ice-cold German lager you’re craving might have to wait a bit longer. Alternatively, you can always bring some of your favourite snacks home and host a fun beer party with friends! Sounds like a fun activity (fun activities in Ottawa for adults), right? |
Schnitzel Works
– Media from ras_in_ottawa
Website: http://schnitzelworks.com/
Address: 1400 Cyrville Rd, Gloucester, ON K1B 3L9, Canada
Contact Details: +1 613-695-9577, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 4 PM
- Saturday- 10 AM to 3 PM
- Sunday – Closed
Pricing: CAD 20 – 30
Schnitzel Works is a paradise for Deutschland food lovers. The restaurant’s mustard walls and pinkish-red chairs create a snug vibe that screams small-town charm—perfect for enjoying dishes in a setting that somewhat looks like a German eatery.
The menu is a treasure trove of delights, from schnitzel sandwiches to cheese-topped spätzle (egg noodles). You can go from the classic wienerschnitzel (breaded, fried veal cutlet) to bold Mexican, alongside popular picks like the Hungarian sandwich.
But if you want a taste of everything, we suggest getting a big platter under the monthly specials on the menu. On top of that, we reckon a cold German beer would make this experience go full circle.
| Pro tip: Schnitzel Works doesn’t mess around with its portions—we’re in awe of how huge they can be! Word on the street is that even the side dishes can feed both you and your date (date ideas Ottawa). To tackle the extra food, you can chat with the staff, order one dish at a time, or just bring a couple of buddies along to maximize the feast! |
German Doner Kebab
– Media from gdkcanada
Website: https://www.germandonerkebab.com/
Address: 272 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1M2, Canada
Contact Details: +1 613-235-6688, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 11 AM to 1 AM
Pricing: CAD 10 – 20
German Doner Kebab is a flavour-packed hub in Ottawa. From the get-go, we were drawn to the vibrant yellow brick pillars and unique wall map design. There’s also an option to dine indoors or outdoors, whichever you’re feeling that day.
Now, the menu boasts everything from döner (meat cooked on a rotisserie) to succulent chicken dishes and tasty Berliner (pita bread pocket filled with spiced meat).
We think you shouldn’t overlook the garlic sauce either, because we see it as the perfect dip if you’re ordering some fluffy fries on the side.
| Pro tip: Coming from the gym (gyms Ottawa) or just craving something light? Give the Kcal kebab at German Doner Kebab a try! It’s got your choice of döner meat, fresh veggies, and all that good stuff, plus a kick of spicy signature sauce, so we think the flavour should still be there. |
Braumeister Bierhalle
– Media from braumeisterbierhalle
Website: https://www.braumeister.ca/
Address: 175 Carruthers Ave, Ottawa, ON K1Y 1P8, Canada
Contact Details: +1 613-680-2337, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Wednesday, Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Monday – Closed
Pricing: CAD 20 – 30
If you’re in Hintonburg and craving schnitzels and brews, Braumeister Bierhalle is the German spot for you! This tasty gem brings Austria to Ottawa with hearty meat cutlets and a killer beer selection.
We absolutely love the classic pub feel with its awesome wooden interiors. It’s a lively joint, especially when live music kicks in—perfect for a night out with friends, old and new.
The menu’s a winner for us too, with delicious pierogies and other German faves. We recommend trying the sandwiches with the draught beers for a great combo. And if you’re a cheese lover, don’t miss out on the pretzels served with a tasty fromage dip.
| Pro tip: Braumeister Bierhalle hosts trivia nights now and then, and it’s a total blast! But if you’re looking for things to do (things to do Ottawa) at your own pace, the restaurant also has board games for you and your pals to borrow. |
