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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!
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10Fourteen offers a unique experience with its ever changing wine list. No matter when you drop by, there will always be something new to taste. Another stand out feature is its casual and spunky aesthetic. Instead of a fancy, classical vibe, the bar often plays 80s music and even has a pinball machine! It’s a great spot to socialize and have a casual hangout.
Photo: Courtesy of 10Fourteen
The newly-opened ARC Cocktail Lounge, located at ARC The.Hotel, will make you feel like you’ve left Ottawa and are in an upscale New York City bar! The cocktails are expertly crafted by the hotel’s in-house mixologist. Expect nothing but quality for both the food and drinks, as all ingredients are sourced from top Canadian farms, wineries, breweries and distilleries. Order a drink, lounge by the fireplace, et voila, you’re in heaven!
Photo Credit: ARC The.Hotel
The Moonroom is a gorgeous cocktail spot right in the heart of Ottawa's Little Italy. Located in an old house that has been restored, the Moonroom offers a cozy, yet high-class atmosphere, making it perfect for a date night. Their cocktails are stunningly crafted and served in sleek, modern glasses that make for the most Insta-worthy shots for all you bloggers out there! They also offer a menu of delicious snacks – we recommend their mouthwatering truffle parmesan popcorn to accompany your drink.
Photo: Courtesy of The Moonroom
The Albion Rooms, located in the Novotel Ottawa, is a gorgeous cocktail bar specializing in craft cocktails and farm-to-table bites. The drink menu is vast, consisting of various local craft beers, popular commercial beers, spirits, and, of course, a plethora of delicious wines and beautifully concocted cocktails. If alcohol isn’t really your thing, they also serve up a great selection of kombucha and old-fashioned sodas. A great spot to spend the evening with some good company.
Photo: Courtesy of The Albion Rooms
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Bar Laurel is under the same ownership as another Ottawa hotspot, Fauna. Like its sister bar, It has a sleek aesthetic to but its Spanish-influence makes it unique in its own right. The drink menu consists of a variety of both Canadian and Spanish wines and expertly mixed cocktails while the food menu features Spanish favourites like queso and chorizo tapas, and Spanish cheese platters that pair perfectly with their high-quality wines.
Photo: Courtesy of Bar Laurel
If you’re looking for somewhere low-key and quaint for a nice glass of wine, 107 Fourth is the place for you. It’s definitely a hidden gem, tucked away in a residential area, but it packs a punch. For a small place, their wine and cocktail lists are quite extensive. They also serve up yummy small plates like salads, warm olives, charcuterie and more to pair with your drink.
Photo Credit: 107 Fourth Avenue Wine Bar & Café
?Avant-Garde Bar & Gift Store — 135 Besserer Street
Avant-Garde is the best, and possibly only, Russian bar in Ottawa. They offer an array of Russian vodka, beer, cocktails and more. Avante-Garde also regulary hosts a variety of events like cocktail nights and live band shows, so it’s definitely a spot to check out on a Friday night. Also, make sure you order an authentic Russian snack like pelmeni dumplings or borscht from their amazing food menu to go with your drink!
Photo: Courtesy of Avant-Garde Bar & Gift Shop
Vineyards Wine Bar Bistro — 54 York Street
Have you ever wanted to see the inside of a wine cellar? Well, the beautiful Vineyards Wine Bar Bistro is literally in the cellar of 54 York Street! Vineyards showcases and serves a variety of top-notch wines–want to have a taste before purchasing a whole bottle? Vineyards has you covered with their “wine flights” program where you get to sample three different wines. The bistro also serves the most mouth-watering oysters and hosts live jazz performances, so definitely drop by!
Photo: Courtesy of Vineyards Wine Bar Bistro
Great views and delicious cocktails go hand in hand at Umbrella Bar! Located right on Dow’s Lake, it makes for the perfect night out, especially on a breezy summer night. The outdoor patio is spacious and is adorned with beautiful lights during the warmer months. Want to drop by in the colder months? No worries, the indoor area is just as beautiful. Order a plate of the crab rangoon eggrolls to go with your drink . . . trust us.
Photo: Courtesy Umbrella Bar
A spin-off of the well-established The Royal Oak chain of bars, you can expect quality from One Up. Located right above the Beechwood Avenue Royal Oak location, this chic spot offers various cocktails and gorgeous views of the Ottawa River, making it an ideal spot for parties. It’s cool Britain-inspired murals and comfy lounge areas will have you not wanting to leave! Check out their website for a virtual tour of the space.
Photo: Royal Oak Pubs
