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’ll share our picks with you — our top hotels,
live music venues, local brews, bands and more.
Check, share and discuss #OLMBest every week!
Zak’s Diner — 14 ByWard Market Sq., 499 Terry Fox Dr. & 220 Elgin St.
Are you really a true Ottawan if you’ve never been to Zak’s? This 50s diner-inspired spot is known for its fries, burgers and, best of all, their old fashioned milkshakes. The portion sizes are generous and the service is super fast and friendly, no matter how busy they are. The diner’s third location is about to open on Elgin Street and they are open 24/7. Does it get any better than this?
Shanghai Wonton Noodle — 178 Rideau St.
If you want to talk hidden gems in Ottawa, then Shanghai Wonton Noodle is your prime example. This modest family-run restaurant offers some of the most authentic and scrumptious Shanghai-style noodles and dumplings in town. With the majority of the menu being under $10, you are truly getting good bang for your buck. The spot is open until 10 pm every night, so you can get your wonton fix even after a long, late work day.
Smoke’s Poutinerie — 407 Dalhousie St.
Nothing cures a hangover or satisfies that post – drinks craving like a nice, big greasy poutine. Smoke’s serves up every type of poutine imaginable, so make it your go-to spot. The cute, Canadiana-style restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Ottawa on Dalhousie and closes at midnight or later every day.
Cumberland Pizza — 152 Nelson St.
Cumberland Pizza is a humble, family-owned joint that puts emphasis on flavour and comfort. Their chewy, gooey pizza pies will have you salivating just by the smell alone. We recommend the decadent Cumberland Special, topped with pepperoni, mushrooms, green peppers, olives and bacon. They never close before 10 pm.
Sansotei Ramen — 153 Bank St. & 1537 Merivale Rd.
Sansotei Ramen is hands down the best ramen spot in Ottawa–evident by the ever-present long queue outside of their Bank Street location. Their broth is simmered for hours, producing that rich umami flavour you expect from a high-quality, authentic ramen. Sansotei also offers a great menu of sake and Japanese beer. Open until 10 pm daily, it’s a great spot to hit up with friends on a Friday night.
Colonnade Pizza — various locations
Family-owned Colonnade Pizza opened its doors in 1967 and is still one of the most popular and loved pizzerias in Ottawa. They are known for their variety of cheesy, decadent signature pizzas and friendly hospitality. They have six locations across the city and are open until as late as 10 PM to deliver all your gooey, cheesy needs.
3 Brothers Shawarma and Poutine — 160 Rideau St., 530 Rideau St. & 124 Osgoode
3 Brothers is a Canadian-Lebanese fusion restaurant popular for their amazing poutine and shawarma! The chicken poutine is especially out of this world if you ask us. With two Rideau locations and a location in Sandy Hill, 3 Brothers is always there when you’re craving a high quality, filling meal after a late night out — they’re open as late as 4 am every day!
Pho Thu Do — 781 Somerset St. W.
Pho Thu Do is one of the best Viatnamese spots in the city. Their large plates and comforting noodle bowls are exactly what we crave on a chilly fall night. Whether you choose chicken, seafood, veggie or any other of their pho flavours, you will not be disappointed. The restaurant is open until 10 pm on weekends.
Yorgo’s Greek Food & Pizza — 1356 Clyde Ave. & 3780 Fallowfield Rd
There is something so comforting about Greek food and Yorgo’s is here to deliver your needs. From incredible souvlaki platters to delicious Greek-style pizza and pasta, it will quickly become your fave place to drop by or order in from on those late nights when you don’t feel like cooking. The restaurant has two locations and is open until midnight almost every day.
Hing Lung Chinese Food — 199 Dalhousie St.
Flavourful, filling and so many meal combinations to choose from – Chinese takeout is just the best! Ottawa staple Hing Lung has been in business for over 32 years and it’s obvious why. The food is delicious and the family-oriented, friendly service is top notch! Order one of their Hot & Spicy Combination Plates to go – the perfect accompaniment to a solo, Netflix binge night. They’re conveniently open until past midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
