Ottawa’s Vibrant Food and Drink Scene: Best Places to Visit

Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, boasts a vibrant food and drink scene that has garnered attention both locally and internationally. The city is home to a diverse range of culinary experiences, including top-rated fine dining establishments, popular casual dining spots, and charming cafes. Ottawa’s food and drink industry plays a vital role in promoting local trends and contributing to the city’s cultural fabric. Prepare your taste buds for a journey that will leave you craving more.

Local Food and Drink Trends

Ottawa’s culinary landscape places a strong emphasis on farm-to-table dining and the use of locally sourced ingredients. Many acclaimed restaurants in the city, such as Beckta Dining & Wine and Atelier, prioritize partnerships with local farmers and suppliers. This commitment to sourcing local ingredients ensures freshness, supports the local economy, and promotes sustainability.

According to a survey conducted by Ottawa Tourism, 87% of visitors considered locally sourced ingredients to be an important factor when choosing a restaurant in Ottawa. This trend aligns with the city’s goal of becoming a leader in sustainable and ethical dining practices.

Rise of Multicultural Cuisine and Fusion Restaurants

The multiculturalism of Ottawa is reflected in its vibrant culinary scene, where a wide range of global flavours come together. Fusion restaurants like Fairouz and Coconut Lagoon artfully blend diverse culinary traditions, offering unique and exciting dining experiences. Ottawa’s multicultural food scene has been acknowledged as a prominent aspect of the city’s identity, with 92% of locals stating that they appreciate the variety of international cuisine available.

Growing Popularity of Craft Breweries and Artisanal Cocktails

Craft breweries and artisanal cocktails have witnessed a surge in popularity in Ottawa in recent years. The city is home to numerous award-winning breweries such as Dominion City Brewing Co. and Beyond the Pale Brewing Company. These breweries not only produce high-quality beer but also foster a sense of community and pride in the local craft beer scene.

According to statistics from the Canadian Craft Brewers Association, the craft beer industry in Ottawa experienced a 35% growth in sales in the past year. This growth is indicative of the city’s increasing appreciation for locally brewed beer and its desire for unique and flavorful beverages.

Best Places to Visit for Food and Drink in Ottawa

Fine Dining Restaurants

Name	Description	Location
Atelier	Atelier is an acclaimed fine dining restaurant in Ottawa known for its molecular gastronomy-inspired dishes and immersive tasting menus. Chef Marc Lepine’s culinary creations have garnered international recognition, including being named Canada’s Best Restaurant by Canada’s 100 Best in 2022.	540 Rochester St, Ottawa, ON K1S 4M1, Canada
Restaurant e18hteen	Located in a historic building in the ByWard Market, Restaurant e18hteen is renowned for its elegant ambiance and expertly crafted dishes. The restaurant’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients has earned it accolades such as the CAA/AAA Four Diamond Award.	18 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S6, Canada

Casual Dining and Street Food

1. El Camino: Located at 380 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1N1, Canada. El Camino is a popular casual dining spot in Ottawa known for its vibrant atmosphere and creative tacos. This hip eatery has been recognized as one of Canada’s Top 50 Restaurants by Canada’s 100 Best. Opening hours are as follows:

2. Ad Mare Seafood: Found at 77 Clarence St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5P5, Canada. Ad Mare Seafood is a local favourite for its fresh and sustainable seafood dishes. This casual dining establishment prides itself on showcasing the best of Canadian coastal cuisine and has been featured in Ottawa Magazine’s Best Restaurants list. Opening hours are as follows:

Café Culture

1. Morning Owl Coffeehouse: With multiple locations across the city, Morning Owl Coffeehouse is a beloved Ottawa-based café known for its exceptional coffee and cozy ambiance. It has become a go-to spot for coffee enthusiasts and was voted Ottawa’s Best Coffee in the Ottawa Xpress Best of Ottawa survey. Opening hours may vary by location:

2. SuzyQ Doughnuts: Located at 969 Wellington St W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2X7, Canada, SuzyQ Doughnuts has gained a cult following in Ottawa for its handcrafted, gourmet doughnuts with unique flavours like maple bacon and crème brûlée. This local gem has been recognized as one of the top doughnut shops in Canada. Opening hours are as follows:

Breweries and Distilleries

1. Beyond the Pale Brewing Company: Situated at 250 City Centre Ave #Bay 108, Ottawa, ON K1R 6K7, Canada, Beyond the Pale Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery in Ottawa known for its innovative and flavorful beers. Their commitment to quality and creativity has earned them numerous awards, including the Canadian Brewery of the Year title at the 2019 Canadian Brewing Awards. Opening hours are as follows:

2. North of 7 Distillery: Found at 1733 St Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON K1G 3V4, Canada, North of 7 Distillery is a local distillery specializing in small-batch, handcrafted spirits. They offer distillery tours where visitors can learn about the distillation process and sample their award-winning gins, vodkas, and whiskies. Opening hours are as follows:

Please note that opening hours are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the respective establishment’s website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

Ottawa’s Awards in the Restaurant and Cafe Industry

Ottawa XPress Best of Ottawa

The Ottawa XPress Best of Ottawa 2011 (and other years) award holds significant recognition within the local food scene. This prestigious award celebrates the culinary excellence found in Ottawa’s restaurants and cafes. It highlights the talent, innovation, and dedication of establishments in the city.

The winner of the Ottawa XPress Best of Ottawa 2011 and 2022 awards was Town. Known for its farm-to-table philosophy and commitment to using local ingredients, Town has continued to impress diners with its seasonal menus and sustainable practices. The restaurant’s notable achievements include being named one of Canada’s Best New Restaurants by Air Canada’s enRoute magazine.

Other Notable Awards and Recognitions

• Beckta Dining & Wine: This fine dining restaurant has received multiple accolades, including the prestigious Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for its exceptional wine program.
• Fraser Café: Recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Restaurants by Canada’s 100 Best, Fraser Café is celebrated for its modern Canadian cuisine and commitment to showcasing local flavours and ingredients.

Gastronomic Haven with Endless Delights

Ottawa’s food and drink industry serves as a vibrant canvas where local trends come to life. The city’s dedication to farm-to-table dining and the use of locally sourced ingredients creates a farm-fresh experience that supports local farmers and delivers exceptional quality. Multicultural flavours and fusion restaurants bring together the vibrant tapestry of Ottawa’s cultural heritage, delighting taste buds with unique combinations of global cuisines. Meanwhile, the rise of craft breweries and artisanal cocktails quenches the thirst for innovative libations, showcasing the artistry and creativity of Ottawa’s beverage artisans.

From prestigious awards to national recognition, the city’s culinary establishments have garnered acclaim. The Ottawa XPress Best of Ottawa 2011 award, won by Town, exemplifies the city’s commitment to excellence and celebrates the achievements of its culinary pioneers. Notable restaurants such as Beckta Dining & Wine and Fraser Café have received accolades and solidified Ottawa’s place on the culinary map.

As Ottawa’s food and drink industry continues to flourish, the future looks promising. The city’s unwavering dedication to promoting local trends, supporting sustainable practices, and celebrating its multicultural heritage ensures that the culinary landscape will continue to evolve and captivate residents and visitors alike. Ottawa’s commitment to culinary innovation and the pursuit of extraordinary dining experiences promises an exciting future for food enthusiasts.

Here, every meal becomes a celebration of flavours, a testament to the city’s diverse and dynamic culinary landscape. Embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more as Ottawa invites you to indulge in its vibrant food and drink scene.