BEST OF OTTAWA: Restaurants

With 20-years writing about Ottawa life we think we have
a pretty good idea of the best of what this city has to offer.
In this new weekly summer series we’ll share it with you.
From our top picks of hotels, live music venues, local brews,
bands and more, check, share and discuss
#OLMBest every Monday!

Beckta

Beckta is no stranger to praise, consistently ranked one of the best restaurants in the city. A place to see and be seen, it’s ideal for celebrating a special occasion. Stephen Beckta creates contemporary cuisine that is sophisticated and upscale.

Fairouz

A recent addition to the Ottawa restaurant scene, this Middle Eastern establishment occupies a heritage building in Centertown. Casual but chic, they focus on using local ingredients. Try their Sunday and Monday night Mezze, a collection of small dishes and paired wines.

Atelier

Atelier chef and owner Marc Lepine has made a name for himself by wowing customers with original and modern creations that show a unique take on fine dining. His talent earned him the title of 2017 Top Independent Restaurateur by the Ontario Hostelry Institute. The 12-course tasting menu changes frequently and can be matched with optional wine pairings.

Fauna

The Bank Street restaurant was designed with sustainability in mind and features a full Zinc bar. Their food menu is seasonal with an emphasis on supporting local growers. A remarkable wine list.

The Green Door

This vegetarian buffet is a community favourite. The staff is friendly, the dishes are light and the atmosphere is calm and casual. The recent renovations have expanded the space while maintaining the neighborly comradery. Make sure to try their tofu broccoli or quiche. 

Whalesbone

Look no further than Whalesbone for the best oysters in the city. With three locations spanning downtown Ottawa, they make it easy to indulge in quality seafood. And is it ever quality, with all fish and shellfish adhering to sustainable fishing policies.

Bar Laurel

Just like its name sake, Calle del Laurel in Logroño, Rioja, Bar Laurel specializes in wine and tapas. Over 20 wines are offered by the glass. Located in Hintonburg, the modern decor is the perfect pairing for a menu composed of both classic dishes and complete originals.

Datsun

This Asian fusion restaurant and bar is run by the same people as El Camino. It’s definitely a local hot spot, partially due to the swanky atmosphere and inexpensive specials on Monday nights. They don’t take reservations, so get there early to snag yourself a spot.

Pure Kitchen

While vegetarian restaurant and juice bar Pure Kitchen strives to provide extensive options for herbivores, omnivores will be just as enthusiastic about their creative takes on veggie focused meals. Grain bowls, mushroom burgers and cauliflower wings combined with an extensive smoothie and juice menu provide some refreshing variance to vegan cuisine, proving it much more than just rabbit food.

Pomeroy House

Located on Bank Street in the Glebe, this classy spot is known for both high quality food and top notch service. Seasonal dishes, decadent desserts and a killer brunch make Pomeroy House a definite must-try.