Here you will find a list of Ottawa’s most unique places to eat with friends and family!
This list includes a wide range of Ottawa restaurants including outdoor patios, cozy bars, and delicious diners. The city of Ottawa offers many vibrant and unique food spots that will satisfy any true foodie. Bon appetit!
Get ready to discover some of the most unique Ottawa restaurants!
Bar Robo
“By day, Bar Robo serves premium coffee and specialty baked goods; by night, classic and modern libations and delicious bar snacks.”
“Bar Robo is Ottawa’s premier spot for live music and entertainment, delicious food, and cocktails, and a quirky, energetic atmosphere”. They serve a variety of fresh foods and drinks including local sandwiches, freshly-brewed coffees, and energizing snacks. Bar Robo strives to place a sense of “life, personality, and electric passion into everything they do”. A truly great spot for any local or tourist!
Level One
“$7 stay & play.”
Level One is the best destination for delicious food, great drinks, and endless fun games! They serve a variety of high-quality food off their menu— nachos, burgers, poutines, and more!— that will please any customer. They are also a fully licensed bar that has many beers on tap and other tasty alcoholic drinks. Not to mention, Level One has over 1000+ video games and 1200+ board games ready-to-play and satisfy every gamer.
Atari
“Your new hangout, your new date spot, your new not-so-hidden gem.”
“ATARI, from the Japanese verb meaning “to hit the target,” is one part restaurant, one part cocktail bar, and a whole lot of cool”. Atari is located in the heart of the Byward Market and creates a welcoming atmosphere for all who visit. The contemporary and playful décor— “including breathtaking retro-inspired full graffiti floor, full concrete bar showcasing their talented bar chefs, floor to ceiling windows, exposed brick and side patio”— offers the perfect spot for friends, family, & dates to hangout and enjoy each others company.
El Furniture Warehouse
“One of Canada’s most popular restaurants for its tasty food, refreshing drinks, energetic staff, and electric atmosphere. “
El Furniture Warehouse— Often referred to as The Warehouse— boasts a delicious menu where every item costs just $5.95. The excellent cost is met with a large variety of food, good portion sizes, and even better taste. The restaurant serves a range of high-quality food from delicious burgers, soft tacos, salads, and even mac & cheese. “Whether you are interested in a quick lunch, pregame drink, or a night on the town with friends, The Warehouse has got you covered”.
Zak’s Diner
“Locally world famous.”
Open 24/7, Zak’s Diner offers a classic diner experience with delicious food, milkshakes, and desserts. “Grab your friends or scoop up your kids and come in for the fun atmosphere, the great conversations, the laughter, and the great food.” Zak’s Diner serves All-Day breakfast, mouth-watering burgers, and many other classic diner foods that will make your old-school soul happy. Situated in the heart of the Byward Market, it is the perfect spot to make amazing late-night memories.
Tavern on the Hill
“Most Instagrammable Patio in Ottawa.”
The Tavern On The Hill is a seasonal outdoor canteen and bar located at the north end of Major’s Hill Park right across from the National Gallery of Canada. The picturesque Ottawa patio serves a variety of goodies and drinks from morning to night! They are well-known for their gourmet hot dogs and they serve a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages ranging from wines to lemonades. No matter what, you are guaranteed to find something delicious to enjoy while taking in the scenic view.
Playback
“Drink & dine in the warm and inviting atmosphere of Ottawa’s most unique patio.”
“The bar & restaurant where it’s always summer, and lazy afternoons filled with lawn games, cookouts and cocktails continue long into the night.” Playback offers a collection of yummy food, drinks, and never-ending fun all under the same roof. The non-traditional dining experience creates a welcoming atmosphere that focuses largely on social interactions and creating bonding memories. It is the perfect blend of Ottawa’s enthusiastic social life and the familiar dining-out environment.
Andaz
“The city’s tallest rooftop bar, providing a view like no other.”
“Experience Ottawa elevated at the 16th-floor rooftop lounge, Copper Spirits and Sights”. The lounge offers many innovative and seasonal Canadian-inspired cuisines that will satisfy any foodlover. The beautiful rooftop bar offers many handcrafted cocktails that are a perfect accompaniment to the view of Ottawa’s breathtaking skyline. The dining experience also offers both take-out and in-room dining services for those staying at the hotel.
El Camino
“A great taco restaurant with awesome service, food, drinks, and atmosphere.”
One of Ottawa’s best taco restaurants! They serve many delicious taco dishes including beef barbacoa, Japanese eggplant, crispy fish, and cauliflower tacos. This late-night hub serves high-quality food that will satisfy anyone’s hunger; especially after a late-night hangout with friends downtown. A perfect and easy-going atmosphere for all occasions.
DreamLand Cafe
“DreamLand Cafe offers incredible fresh pasta dishes, made with love and finesse.”
“Located in the heart of Ottawa’s Little Italy, DreamLand is filled with bright colours, warmth and overwhelmingly delicious smells”. Established in May of 2018, “owners (and sisters) Marlo and Coco De Leo, have created an inviting atmosphere for their customers” and strive to serve the best quality food. Their food is not only delicious but also inspired by their family’s classic Italian recipes. They have many outstanding signature dishes including their Spaghetti & Meatballs, Carbonara, and Pesto Mac ‘n’ Cheese.
Joey Landsdowne
“A team of award-winning chefs. Globally-inspired dishes. Unparallelled hospitality.”
“Instead of just one chef, they have a whole team of celebrated Executive Chefs bringing you an experience you can’t get anywhere else”. Joey Landsdowne, located in the heart of Landsdowne Park, is the perfect restaurant to spend time with friends and celebrate all sorts of special occasions with loved ones. The restaurant believes in handcrafted, locally and globally inspired menu offerings and have a modern, warm and lively environment. Their patio is well-loved by many locals in Ottawa and is the perfect meet-up spot for a fun night out.
Ward14
“The Neighbourhood hang-out spot.”
“Established in 2016, locals Max and Devon had the idea of combining two of their favourite things into a business: vintage goods and alcohols”. Honestly, a match made in heaven! At its core, “Ward 14 is a neighbourhood cocktail and beer bar disguised as a consignment shop”. Ward 14 is the perfect spot for locals and tourists that are looking for a unique drinking experience out with friends in a cozy and refreshing environment.
Zaks Cantina
“One of the best Ottawa restaurants! Zak’s Cantina is the authentic Mexican Diner full of energy, colour, music, and rich flavours.”
Located in the center of the Byward Market, Zak’s Cantina is one of Ottawa’s best late-night food spots. The restaurant reimagines traditional Mexican street food and brings it into an energetic sit-down restaurant— you can even eat on a bus inside the restaurant! They serves a large selection of dishes including tacos, nachos, burritos, and chimichangas. The warm and energetic environment is great for families and the perfect spot for friends to reconnect, laugh, and share together. Not to mention, Zak’s Cantina offers eye-catching and beautiful indoor decor that is perfect for your next Instagram photo.
Absolute Comedy
“Dinner, drinks and a show all under one roof!”
Absolute Comedy is more than just a hilarious show, it also provides a great atmosphere with amazing food and drinks. Creating a perfect night out with friends and family that is spent laughing together and creating lasting memories. You are guaranteed to have a great time at this local comedy show.
I hope you get the chance to try out and enjoy some of these amazing Ottawa restaurants. Feel free to leave a comment down below recommending any other unique food spots in Ottawa that you love!
Carina
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These places look like so much fun. Can’t wait to try them. ☺️
Thank you for all the amazing recommendations! I’ve been trying to find some new restaurants to try in Ottawa for the longest time. You’re the best!