After over 20-years writing about life in Ottawa, we think we have a pretty good idea of the best of what this city has to offer. In this weekly series, we share our picks with you — our top hotels, live music venues, local brews, bands and more. Check, share and discuss #OLMBest every week!
Golden Palace – 2195 Carling Ave.
Home of Ottawa's most famous egg rolls, and the official egg rolls of the Ottawa Senators, Golden Palace is a treasure. The restaurant has been a local staple for over 60 years and, along with their signature egg rolls, offer a vast menu of delicious, freshly-made Chinese dishes. The shrimp chop-suey and beef and green pepper with black bean sauce are two of our fave menu items!
Photo Credit: UberEats
Ahora Mexican Restaurant – 307 Dalhousie St.
When it comes to Mexican food, it doesn’t get any more authentic than Ahora. The cozy, colourful aesthetic of the restaurant and the vibrant flavours of the dishes will make you feel like you've been transported to a cantina in Mexico City! Every item on the menu, from the enchiladas to the quesadillas, is a win. We also LOVE the free salsa and sauce bar. Don’t forget to order a sangria with your meal!
Photo Credit: Ahora Mexican Restaurant
Fishy’s Tropical Grill – 556 Montreal Rd.
Feel like you've been transported to the island of Jamaica with a plate of Fishy’s mouth-watering food. From perfectly seasoned jerk chicken to freshly fried dumplings, you are going to want to order every week! The great food plus the casual, friendly atmosphere really makes it one of Ottawa's best spots to get your Carribean fix!
Photo Credit: Fishy’s Tropical Grill
New Mee Fung Restaurant – 350 Booth St.
New Mee Fung has been a staple in Ottawa for years and it's still going strong! Popular for their exquisite pho broth, vermicelli and array of other Vietnamese dishes, this is a must-go spot for all noodle lovers and foodies. For under $10, you can get a generous bowl of soup with succulent rice noodles and meat of choice like shrimp, pork wontons, beef tenderloin and more.
Photo Credit: New Mee Fung Restaurant
Jericho – 840 Bank St.
There are many Lebanese eateries in the city, but what makes Jericho stand out is its artsy, casual atmosphere. The menu includes all the Lebanese classic comfort foods like spanakopita, kebab, falafel and much more. The restaurant also offers a great selection of fish and fully vegetarian dishes that are just as filling and flavourful as the rest of the menu.
Photo Credit: Emad Aziz via Google Maps
Corazón De Maíz – 55 Byward Market Square
This spot is nestled in the heart of the city inside the ByWard Market Square and has been a community favourite for years. The friendly atmosphere and delicious dishes at Corazón De Maíz really make you feel like you’ve been whisked away to a cantina in a little Mexican neighbourhood. Everything on the menu is top notch, but we especially love their burritos and wide array of house made hot sauces.
Photo Credit: Tara Lee via Google Maps
Kiko Sushi Bar – 349B Preston St.
Combine great food with a modern, warm ambiance and you get Kiko Sushi Bar. Located in Preston Square, this spot is your go-to place for every type of sushi and maki imaginable. We recommend the Spider Roll and the Spicy Scallop Roll, but everything on the menu is top notch. If you're not a sushi fan, they also offer a great selection of noodle dishes and rice bowls.
Photo Credit: Erik N. via Google Maps
Giovanni’s – 362 Preston St.
Giovanni’s has been operating for more than 30 years. Founders Lisa and Guiseppe wanted to bring their love of Italy to Ottawa and did they ever succeed. Authentic Italian dishes made with fresh veggies, seafood and the highest of quality meats are topped off with quality service that makes you feel like part of the family.
Photo Credit: Giovanni's
Coconut Lagoon – 853 St. Laurent Blvd.
The team at Coconut Lagoon sure knows what’s up when it comes to South Indian food! Chef Joe Thottungal won Silver at the 2018 Canadian Culinary Championships among many other accolades. Their weekend brunch buffet and freshly made mango lassi are just a couple of their standout offerings.
Photo Credit: Coconut Lagoon
Won Ton House – 1300 Wellington St. W.
This family-owned spot on Wellington Street West has been in operation since 1975. At Won Ton House, customers are treated like family — naturally leading to stand-out service and top-notch food. All dishes are cooked to order in the traditional Szechuan style and new menu items are added regularly. We recommend the Special Won Ton Soup that includes succulent pork strips, whole shrimp, and to-die-for, plump wonton dumplings.
Photo Credit: Ezekiel via Google Maps