Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning architecture. However, one of the things that sets Ottawa apart is its incredible food scene. From fine dining to casual eateries, Ottawa offers something for every palate. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best Ottawa restaurants that you simply have to try.

Beckta Dining & Wine Bar

If you’re looking for a restaurant that offers both exceptional food and impeccable service, look no further than Beckta Dining & Wine Bar. Located in the heart of Ottawa’s trendy Wellington West neighborhood, Beckta is a fine dining establishment that offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant’s menu features modern French cuisine, with an emphasis on locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. Make sure to try the signature tasting menu, which features five courses of the chef’s best creations.

Fauna Ottawa

Fauna Ottawa is a restaurant that has quickly become a local favorite. Located in Centretown, Fauna offers a modern take on Canadian cuisine, with a focus on farm-to-table ingredients. The menu changes frequently to showcase the freshest seasonal ingredients, but some standout dishes include the seared scallops with corn puree and the lamb shoulder with root vegetables. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and exceptional cocktails make it the perfect spot for a night out with friends.

Atelier

Atelier is a restaurant that takes fine dining to a whole new level. Located in the trendy neighborhood of Little Italy, Atelier offers a 12-course tasting menu that is as much a work of art as it is a meal. Each dish is a culinary masterpiece, with unexpected flavor combinations and stunning presentation. The menu changes regularly to showcase the best seasonal ingredients, but some standout dishes include the foie gras with elderberry and the lobster with grapefruit.

Riviera

Riviera is a restaurant that combines classic French cuisine with contemporary Canadian flavors. Located in the ByWard Market, Riviera offers a luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere, with a menu that features dishes like roasted duck breast with foie gras, and bison tartare with egg yolk and truffle. Make sure to try one of the restaurant’s signature cocktails, which are expertly crafted by the talented bartenders.

El Camino

El Camino is a Mexican restaurant that has become a staple in Ottawa’s food scene. Located in the trendy neighborhood of Chinatown, El Camino offers a menu of elevated Mexican street food, with dishes like the crispy pork belly tacos and the tuna ceviche with avocado and crispy tortilla. The restaurant’s funky decor and lively atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a night out with friends.

North & Navy

North & Navy is an Italian-inspired restaurant that has quickly become a local favorite. Located in the trendy neighborhood of New Edinburgh, North & Navy offers a menu of rustic Italian cuisine, with dishes like the braised pork shoulder with polenta and the pappardelle with duck ragu. Make sure to try one of the restaurant’s signature Negronis, which are expertly crafted by the talented bartenders.

Supply and Demand

Supply and Demand is a seafood-focused restaurant that offers a menu of locally-sourced, sustainable seafood. Located in the trendy neighborhood of Wellington West, Supply and Demand offers dishes like the grilled octopus with white beans and the pan-seared halibut with fennel and orange. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and excellent wine list make it the perfect spot for a romantic night out.

Pure Kitchen

If you’re looking for a restaurant that offers healthy, plant-based options, look no further than Pure Kitchen. With three locations in Ottawa, Pure Kitchen offers a menu of creative and delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes. From the vegan buffalo cauliflower wings to the Buddha bowl with avocado and quinoa, every dish is packed with flavor and nutrition. The restaurant’s laid-back atmosphere and beautiful decor make it the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner with friends.

The Shore Club

The Shore Club is a seafood and steakhouse that offers some of the best meat and seafood in Ottawa. Located in the heart of downtown Ottawa, The Shore Club offers dishes like the grilled Alberta beef ribeye and the jumbo shrimp scampi. Make sure to try one of the restaurant’s delicious sides, like the truffle fries or the lobster mashed potatoes.

The Whalesbone

The Whalesbone is a seafood-focused restaurant that offers sustainable seafood dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. With two locations in Ottawa, The Whalesbone offers dishes like the lobster roll with house-made potato chips and the smoked trout with pickled vegetables. The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and excellent beer and wine selection make it the perfect spot for a casual night out.

Ottawa’s food scene is a true culinary delight, offering a wide range of restaurants and cuisines to satisfy every palate. From fine dining to casual eateries, the city has a wealth of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for classic French cuisine or elevated Mexican street food, Ottawa’s best restaurants will not disappoint. So the next time you’re in the capital city, make sure to try one (or all!) of these top restaurants for an unforgettable culinary experience.