Ottawa is filled with unique restaurants with delicious and incredible menus. In the last couple of years, so many great local restaurants have opened up in the capital. If you are looking for somewhere new to dine, then this list is for you. Here are five new Ottawa Restaurants you need to visit in 2023.
Starlings
— 54 York Street
This stylish restaurant is located on York Street in the ByWard Market. The restaurant and bar are filled with energy and have a great overall atmosphere. Starling hosts many fun events, including weekly live music performances. Every Sunday from 11 am to 2 pm, Edra Silva performs live at Starling. The menu is delicious and has so many options. One dish in particular you need to try is Starlings Impossible Burger; it’s made with grilled cheese curds and chipotle—so delicious. Their cocktails are equally as tasty and will pair perfectly with your meal. www.starlingottawa.ca
Photo: Starling
Cocotte Bistro
— 123 Metcalfe Street
This French-inspired restaurant, will make you feel like you’re been transported to France. The restaurant is decorated with carefully curated French furniture and decor and the food is absolutely delicious. Cocotte serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert. Each menu item is unique and there is something for everyone. The Cornish hen and fillet mignon are especially worth trying. For dessert, make sure to try the Ottawa Brest, a local take on the Paris-Brest. cocottebistro.com
Photo: Cocotte Bistro
Lavender Grill
— 47 Clarence St. Unit 101-102
Lavender Grill is the ultimate girl’s night out destination. The location is so aesthetic and sets the perfect vibe to let loose with your friends. With beautiful lavender strings hanging from the ceiling and moody purple lights, the restaurant is just waiting to be posted on your Instagram. The menu is filled with delicious dishes that are as unique as they are affordable. Lavender Grill has many tasty dinner options. You can not go wrong with any of their pastas, sandwiches or burgers. A few of the menu items, like the lavender nachos, ravioli and gnocchi, play on their purple aesthetic. www.lavendergrill.com
Photo: Lavender Grill Tirweka
Tirweka
— 473 Hazeldean Road
If you are looking for a unique breakfast experience, then Tirweka is the spot for you. Tirweka strives to create authentic Middle Eastern food. The menu is very affordable, and super tasty which is exactly what you need for a breakfast/brunch spot. You can not go wrong with any of the Tirweka favourites including fool, mosabaha, balila, hummus, and more. This restaurant is like no other in the city and you definitely need to check it out in 2023. www.tirweka.com
Photo: Tirweka J’TM Resto Bar
J’TM Resto Bar
— 101 Clarence
J’TM strives to provide their guests with the best locally sourced food and drinks. J’TM opened in 2022 by “a group of young entrepreneurs who fell in love with food and wholeheartedly believe that it is a love language meant to be shared in infinite ways.” J’TM serves a delicious brunch and dinner and offers some great cocktails as well. Their dinner specialties include chicken wings, jerk dip, steak frites, seafood spaghettini, and beef burger. They have a wide variety of classic and specialty cocktails you need to try as well. www.jtmrestobar.ca
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Photo: J’TM Resto Bar