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 spots for takeout, live music venues, local brews, bands and more. Check, share and discuss #OLMBest every week!
Colonnade Pizza
Multiple 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 five locations across the city, but we have a soft spot for their original location on Metcalfe that is just minutes away from the OLM office!
Photo: Colonnade Pizza via UberEats
Gabriel Pizza
Multiple locations
Gabriel opened with one location in Orleans in 1977 and have since expanded to over 20 locations across the region. Known for their comforting, cheesy pies and snappy delivery service, no wonder they’re on top! A viral video of one of their employees even made it into the 2019 Oscar-winning film Parasite!
Photo: Gabriel Pizza
IL VICOLO
118 Clarence Street
If you love traditional, thin crust Italian-style pizza, IL VICOLO is for you! They offer over 15 varieties of pizza in decadent flavours like spicy “Diablo” and mushroom-packed “Oh Shiitake.” You won’t know which to pick!
Photo: IL VICOLO
Fiazza Fresh Fired
Multiple locations
Fiazza is a “build-your-own” style spot, letting you choose exactly how you want your pizza from the crust thickness, type of cheese, and of course toppings. The pizza is baked in a wood fired oven, given it a rich, smoky flavour. Fiazza has locations in the ByWard Market, Barrhaven, Westboro, and in the Queen St. Fare food hall.
Photo: Fiazza Fresh Fired
Roberto Pizzeria
348 Preston Street
Located in the city’s beautiful Little Italy neighbourhood, Roberto Pizza will make you feel like you’ve been transported to an Italian village with every bite. While many restaurants are about fusion and modern spins on dishes, Roberto is all about authenticity, serving up pizza with traditional, Italian toppings such as fresh mozzarella, prosciutto and soppressata to name a few.
Photo Credit: Roberto Pizza
The Grand Pizzeria and Bar
74 George Street
Another gem in the ByWard Market, The Grand Pizzeria and Bar is perfect if you want not only good pizza but to take in some sun! They have a beautiful large patio which creates a chill and relaxing atmosphere. All of their pizzas are top notch, but we recommend their unique breakfast pizza that’s offered during brunch hours.
Photo: The Grand Pizzeria and Bar
Score Pizza
50 Rideau Street and 852 Bank Street
From their “Build-Your-Own” option to their selection of delicious signature pizzas, Score offers endless options. Are you vegan? Don’t fret, Score Pizza offers a to-die-for vegan cheese that looks and tastes just like mozzarella!
Photo: Score Pizza
Cumberland Pizza
152 Nelson Street
Cumberland Pizza proves that you don’t have to be super fancy to be good. This humble, family-owned joint is simple, affordable and puts emphasis on flavour and comfort. Their chewy, gooey pizza pies will have you salivating just by the smell alone.
Photo: Cumberland Pizza
Lorenzo’s Pizza
Multiple locations
With three locations across the city, Lorenzo’s is accessible, fresh and delicious. We especially love their smoked meat pizza – something you don’t see too often!
Photo: Lorenzo’s Kanata
Tomaso Grilled Pizza & Panini
450 Kanata Avenue
Looking for some good deep dish? Well, you’re in luck! Tomaso offers five varieties of Detroit-style deep dish pizza if you’re craving something extra indulgent. Their “Fire in the Hole” deep dish is to die for with its spicy flavour.
Photo: Tomaso Grilled Pizza & Panini