The 50 best pubs in Ottawa

The Manx is typically where my partner and I go for late night eats. This week we decided to go for lunch…. But we were surprisingly disappointed. The salad and fries were great as always but the sandwich itself was absolutely flavourless. Bland, dull, and tasteless. A huge surprise, because we normally can’t rave about this spot enough. Anyway hope it was just a coincidence, as we will be back regardless.

The service was so kind and the food was amazing. We had the Quesedillas and the vegetarian Wrap and both were so good! We definitely recommend The Manx Pub and would go there again!

Hidden Gem on Elgin!! Fast, polite, professional service. Tasty food with generous portions. Cozy ambiance, with a nice little patio. Tried the following: - black bean dip — a bit spicy, but tasty - lamb curry wrap — delicious! The fries that came with the wrap were very tasty too. Waiter recommended the “Manx” beer and it was an easy beer to drink. Enjoyed it very much. No dessert on the menu, maybe you have to ask for it, but I’m not sure. Overall I loved this place and would highly recommend!

Great pub with interesting beer choices and decent but small menu. The service is always excellent. It's down a half flight of stairs to enter the pub, so not ideal for accessibility. Lots of street parking, for which you have to pay. Walkable from many downtown offices and locations.

Was recommended to come here and so glad we did!! Lovely, cozy, friendly establishment and food was absolutely delicious!! One of the best pub meals we have ever had and a very decent price too!! Our new friend Stephen there was so warm, friendly and helpful, nothing was too much trouble, all in all a wonderful visit and highly recommend to visit, we didn't want to leave but look forward to visiting again on next trip to Ottawa!!😀

We ate at small tables, having to move things around and remove some things so all our plates could actually fit on the table. It was noisy. And to top it off the food was not great. Their hollandaise was flavourless, their bacon was stiff and cold, and there was so much bread it was all I tasted with their eggs Benedict. It was a neat location but I would not go there again.

My new favourite place - fantastic food, great atmosphere, amazing staff. I will be back.

Stopped here for an early dinner on a Wednesday night before a show at the NAC. They give a nod to Irish food, but this is definitely not the place to go if you're looking for lots of options that are more traditionally. Irish. The service was decent, and our weight are very friendly. Appetizer took a long time to come out but was tasty. I ordered the shepherd's pie which was a nice moderate portion. My husband got the braised short rib which was extremely tasty.

Nice typical pub with a massive presence in term is atmosphere. We sat on the back terrace, and the walls, decor and colour choices were exactly right for the expected experience. Food is typical pub grub, and I enjoyed my fish & chips, even if I'm not sure that it's home made - I could be wrong. The menu is diversified enough to covers most tastes. We went after visiting the National Gallery in mid-afternoon, and it was neither very busy nor loud, but I can see how it gets more animated in the later hours. I would definitely return.

Lovely pub in the heart of center town with good food! I came here for lunch and had really good, fresh beer, beef brisket tacos (was indeed very delicious) and shepherd pie. I love the pub’s vibe, it was very nicely decorated despite being a bit small and wasn’t loud at all even though we came on a Sunday noon. It is definitely a cute spot for a date or family visit because the price was also pretty decent.

It’s been awhile since I was in this place. Got outside seating in the court yard. Friday evening and not too busy yet. Attentive and responsive staff. Good ambience in the courtyard away from street level noise and reasonable conversations are possible. Good pub menu and tried the fish and chips and the in house pudding. A very good choice. A recommendation in the market.

My wife and I stopped in for lunch and this place was excellent. Simone seated us immediately and gave us menus. Kyle came by and asked if we had any questions and took our drink order. He gave us a recommendation and took our order. He was very accommodating. They food was superb, the service excellent and the atmosphere was great. We highly recommend this place.

Sam the new bartender, was great! We found a the live music to be fun, though a little loud for our taste on Monday evening. We sat on the patio, and that was cool. Would recommend,

I loved this place 15 years ago when I lived here and it's only gotten better. The food is fracking excellent. Get the Irish fried bag - it is pure excellence. You can always count on a solid Black Velvet. The service is perfect. And the entertainment!! The singer songwriter covers guy yesterday (August 13) was PHENOMENAL. Period. This guy belongs in a stadium. Good ambiance, good times, good location. Excellent patio. Don't bother choosing somewhere else. Go here.

Service was lovely and the beer was tasty. But food was unbearable. $18 for 5 badly done dumplings $18 Mediterranean plate with ??? Falafel was way too dry and tasteless. P Mini pita was not soft and 2 leaves of dry up basil? I think they can do a lot better. Definitely will not go back to eat here again!!

First time going to this restaurant and was less than impressed. The server said to sit anywhere on the patio, but when he found out I was a lone diner, it was no, sit only at a table for two. Turned out I sat under a huge spider web, wondering if I was going to have a date for lunch after all, haha. Service turned out to be crap also. I guess if you don't order alcohol, you aren't worth the time. I ordered the Southwest wrap with side salad, $33 later including tip, wasn't worth it. The best part of the meal was the side salad. When it was time to pay the bill, not even a 'have a nice day'. And I thought I was being generous giving 15%. Hard pass on The Clocktower Brew Pub on Mackay.

Food and beer were excellent. A little dark for my tastes, but it is a pub! Our server was very good.

Want a big fan of the ment for a long time but it's really getting better. The duck fat fries were delicious, light, crispy and full of flavor. Is Simone ever going to serve enough of that mayo dip to go with them. I always run out.

Beer was pretty good. Very disappointed in the the food. Ordered a poutine and paid an extra 6.00 to add braised brisket. When it came out, the braised brisket was room temperature sandwich meat.

Good experience! It began to rain and we were quickly accommodated to a table which sheltered us from the rain. Everything was great but I can't recommend the nachos as highly as I would like. The BBQ sauce overpowered everything else and there was very little cheese. We asked for jalapeños on the side and they were littered throughout. Other than that it was a great experience and the supreme burger was very good.

Visited on Saturday for lunch. Service was ok, they were fairly busy with a big party of people. Food was good (shared wings and poutine). The real star is their beer though! Would come back to try the other varieties of in house beer they have!

This place is known for its French dishes, but we stopped by just to grab a quick burger this time. That said, I definitely want to come back and try more of the menu. It’s an older spot with a ton of character, feels almost like a little museum. The building shows its age in a good way, and the walls are covered with art. Each piece has a note about the artist, and you can even buy them, which is a nice touch. The vibe is great. I really enjoy places like this that have some history and their own personality. The food was also solid. The burger was simple but really tasty, and it came nicely plated with a bunch of fresh veggies on the side. The fries were cooked perfectly and had good flavor. The only downside was the washrooms, they weren’t very clean. But overall, the staff were friendly and helpful, and the whole experience was a good one. I’ll definitely be back.

One of the best restaurants in Ottawa. The french dishes are so good. The bread and sauce are tasty. Burgers are fine. The pork chop is surprisingly juicy. Most importantly, the prices are reasonable and I think everyone visiting Ottawa must give them a try. Some say that the service is not good and needs to wait for a long time for the food, but when we visit, the food comes fast and servers are nice people. No need to wait if reservation is made.

We came in as a group of 7, the place was pretty busy. We were seated quickly but you can tell that its packed and busy as there were some tables that haven't been cleared yet. Our server was very nice and attentive, she deserves credit as she did her best with a smile despite being the only one serving our area. We had a brunch menu, pretty sure their menu changes depending on what time you would be dining. Ordered Spicy Beef Nachos and Frida & Diego Burger - their fries was perfect cooked and seasoned, the burger also great, you get a really thick somewhat juicy beef patty and the flavors just work really well. The nachos was just okay for us. Overall, its a mixed review. Thinking we should try their dinner service next time.

This was an amazing place for a burger, wonderful and truly delicious. Served with mayo and ketchup for dipping delicious yummy French fries, so good!!! Recommend this to any tourist to go and visit!! Wish I could have stayed in Ottawa longer to keep on enjoying this very yummy food. Beer was cold and satisfying!! Amazing spot have to recommend you check it out!! Space can be limited so he there early on busy times.

We ate the escargots with cheese, beef liver, and seafood pasta and the food was great! The lady tried her best to serve us. However, it was a busy night, people kept coming in and the AC didn't work. Luckily the lady opened the front door to introduce the fresh air and breeze to cool down people inside.

We came here in June as a family when we were visiting Ottawa. Food was great and fairly priced. The mussels were fresh and delicious! Service was good. We went around 6pm and it was busy and quite loud. Great location, would come again!!

Absolute gem in Ottawa. This is the best value French food I have had. The atmosphere is more casual and cozy, but that does not take away from the quality of the food. Usually when I get escargot it comes with just 6 snails still in shells, but this one they are already deshelled and overflowing. The duck confit was also perfectly cooked with large portions. Wonderful service as well.

We had an absolutely amazing dinner tonight at the Glen! The food was delicious (especially the haggis and scotch eggs), the patio was well shaded, plus the staff were wonderful, and shared our sense of humour! We'll definitely be coming back here.

Had the Scottish egg. A unique combination of boiled egg wrapped in sausage in a bun. The Tomato chutney stole the show there. The beer battered fish was the best I’ve ever had. I’d give that 6 stars if I could! The fries were cooked to absolute perfection but not particularly tasty. Perplexing! The bangers and mash were quite good even though they sound unappealing. Surprise! The Glen burger was good with a unique flavour which I couldn’t pinpoint. Potion sizes were good. Service was excellent! It had a great upscale pub atmosphere. The restaurant was clean and welcoming. Loads of parking. Highly recommend! Get the Beer Battered Fish!!!🎣 Did I mention the fish was stellar? Had the apocalypse IPA which was very soft for an an IPA 🍻👍

Great spot to eat with a variety of dishes. Some from Scottish origins others to more in house style cuisine. Staff are friendly and well organized. A pleasure to eat chill and catch the latest football or rugby game. Even a good puck on the ice. The meat pie is spot on.

The servers were super friendly! That alone is a good reason to visit here and hang out. But to make things even better, the food was amazing! Best fish & chips I've ever had. They also had 3 choices of tartar sauce: regular, spicy, and dill. I got to try both the spicy and dill (no extra charge). The poutine was great too, with loads of gravy -- just the way I like it.

Beautiful Scottish style pub, great food and excellent attentive service. Couldn’t ask for any more. We ordered beer battered haddock (good), yorkshire pudding (very good) and steak and ale pie (excellent).

Andrew was extremely friendly and welcoming, and June, she is a true gem. Thank you so much for making our experience at The Glen Scottish Pub such a memorable one. Also, just want to say, the Yorkie Bowl was absolutely AMAZING!!

Fish and chips… incredible. I had the beer battered and the lemon pepper and they were both top notch. Fries were plentiful and crispy. Beer was cold. The service was amazing too. Super fast. On the ball. Incredibly friendly. It really felt like we were being served by family. This place is a gem!

I really like the outdoor area here—the view is fantastic. The only issue I have with both branches of this bar is the time it takes to get food or drinks. I think this time I waited about 25 minutes just to buy a beer. It might be necessary to hire more staff. Also, if you need something and want to ask for help, you have to wait quite a while until someone from the staff passes by. Considering the large space and the number of people that come here, there definitely aren't enough staff members. However, the staff are very kind and friendly, and they even offer blankets if you feel cold. On the positive side, this location is open until 2 AM, the music was great, the weather was perfect, and I was enjoying my favorite drink and having a good time.

Cool place to grab a quick bite after visiting the Gallery. The seating is very cool. The views are spectacular, with a great skyline and nice view of the back of parliament center building. Menu is a little small, but the digs were tasty. I recommend the Korean beef dog.

A really nice atmosphere. Food is pretty mid and in small portions. My hotdog order was lost somewhere in between orders so it took abt an hour to get it but it tasted ok. The Kimchi caesar was nice though

Stopped here for dinner. The setup is a little strange - you have to get in line to order food and then find a table (it’s open seating). They give you a number and bring your food to your table. If you want to order an alcoholic drink, you need to go to the bar to order (you can’t order it with your food). Hot dogs were okay, not bad but nothing special. However, the seating was comfortable, the atmosphere was relaxed and the views were great.

Spent a wonderful evening at Tavern on the hill. Great views of the river and beautiful tree to sit under. You have to go order drinks and food, they give you a number and bring your food when it's ready.

This is exactly what needs to exist in this very spot. Just having a place to chill and grab drinks right by the river and Kiweki point is so prime. Super open and chill vibe with live music, some food, and drinks. I really like that you go up and order your food and drinks rather than ording at the table. It adds to the open, almost beach-y vibe. The staff are all quite friendly and helpful, and the live band was great. Big ups to having live music in a spot like this. As other reviews have mentioned, the food isn't going to change your life, but it's decent. Same with the drinks. I would say they are all fine, and priced very reasonably, especially given the location. It feels like they are really striking a good balance here. $7.25 for a pint (as of 2025) is perfectly reasonable and I'm happy to see it. I hope this never changes because this is the kind of stuff downtown needs! Really bringing life to downtown. I'm excited to see how this place moves and improves, especially given that it seems the owners are following the reviews here and taking criticism well! A few notes: The washrooms nearby are very limited so on a busy day there can be LINES. Also I do think there is some room for improvement on some aspects of the food. And I think itnis possible that there was a blown speaker or something somewhere on the patio while we were there. But not 100% sure.

Enjoy a lovely view of Ottawa-Gatineau from the Tavern on the Hill. Great outdoor space for drinks during the summer. Great tacos, great drinks 🍷

A great venue for smaller bands and artists! A little outdated in terms of furniture but the decor is cool. The current art pieces they have all look very nice and add to the music atmosphere. Service is always available and efficient. They are attentive. There are lots of options to choose from but it is your standard pub fare. Check it out if you enjoy music, trivia, and some drinks.

Warm welcome (and that wasn’t just the heat) and we were seated quickly. Tried their Famous Veggie burger and it was the BEST veggie burger I’ve had so far. Although, I don’t think anyone can make it better. Texture, toppings, buns- outrageously good! Others had the poutine and fish and chips -and salad. Also all good options. Dessert was a delectable cake, so good and homemade. Wow! Will be back

Good food. Amazing brews. Great service. And, the tofu katsu sandwich slaps!

A great place for good beer and pub food, but especially great because of the live music! They have great jam sessions as weak as concerts with great energy!

A woman came to my door claiming she was collecting donations for this restaurant’s anniversary. I declined politely, and instead of handling it with professionalism, she turned bitter and snapped “cheap” at me. That was shocking, rude, and absolutely unprofessional. I have no issue with restaurants celebrating milestones or even fundraising, but insulting people for saying no takes it to another level. If this is how they choose to represent themselves in the community, If this person truly represents the restaurant, it speaks volumes about how they value the community and potential customers. Instead of celebrating an anniversary with gratitude toward customers, they’ve sent someone around to guilt-trip strangers and hurl insults. This left me with such a negative impression that I have no interest in ever visiting.

Great fish and chips, beers and service on a busy pre-game (Rugby Canada Women) Friday night

Great neighborhood vibe offering live entertainment and cozy atmosphere. Good service.

Such a lovely place! The atmosphere is cozy and thoughtfully themed, with great attention to detail. There are no old or unpleasant smells inside — everything feels fresh and clean. I was greeted by a very friendly girl with golden hair 😉. My sandwich was absolutely delicious and came out super fast. A great spot in Hintonburg — I’ll definitely be back!

Had a delicious brunch. We had the Huevos and the Pastrami plates. Both were excellent. Service was equally good. Nice location.

I visited HPH on Saturday for brunch. The service was warm and great, food was beyond my expectation. Spicy sausage (side dish) was also delicious. Nice cozy place for gathering!

Had a lovely time in this little gem of a restaurant in Hintonburg! Try the Cucumber dip and the Fish n’ Chips! Came with my lovely wife before going to Bluesfest and I reccomend for a casual dinery and local beer!

A rustic little family restaurant. Delicious salad, burger and fries. Received tastey home made ketchup, & aoli. Has an outside eating area.

The Hintonburg Public House impressed me right away. Service was perfect, and the UK-style vintage atmosphere felt cozy and inviting. Food and drinks were above expectations, and the warm atmosphere made the visit memorable. Definitely a place I’d recommend and return to.

Lovely folks making good food and drink in a great atmosphere. Sometimes the price point for portion size may underwhelm the typical “pub” expectation, but the quality and taste is always on point. If I ever don’t know where to meet someone for a drink and a bite, HPH is at the front of the line. Friends? Date? Business? Seen it all here, and it all fits.

Good was incredible and has really interesting drinks! Got the mango marg and the harvest fizz, both super fun. Food was so good, got the apricot salad and the maple fries and omg they were delicious. The upstairs patio is also delightful with great service. Definitely a great place to stop in.

Great spot to hang out with friends or adult family. Atmosphere is just so nice as well as service, drinks and meals. Waitresses are polite and focused on customer experience which is fundamental for visitors. Music is really nice and at a good volume level that one can have conversations at the table, so no need to raise the voice... So experience at the pub is truly nice. If in the area (Ottawa downtown) perhaps it would be good idea to have a change to have nice afternoon here at the Pub and restaurant.

Late one night after Bluesfest, I dined on the patio and sampled the late night menu. It was a fantastic experience since everyone passing by was still buzzing from the concert. The menu pleasantly surprised me, and I had the best nachos I've ever tasted! This place exceeded my expectations, and I look forward to returning on my next trip to Ottawa.

I have never had a bad experience at this pub. I am in Ottawa a lot of travels and this is always my go to. Fish and chips are the best, and the best thing they do it the proper Irish/English way, not a plate full of chips, which is the way its suppose to be. The fish was moist and flakey. Batter was crispy as well. Also has Kilkenny on draft. Ive had other items of food there from their bangers and mash to their burgers. Again never disappointed. Always recommended and will always be coming back

Awesome service, staff super friendly. The Pulled Chicken Tacos were fantastic! The cilantro lime and apple slaw tangy and delicious. Fish & chips also excellent. Great atmosphere, the 2nd floor outdoor space overlooks the market, great for an evening of cocktails and people watching.

Pour House is one of our favourite market pubs. BEST patio for sight seeing (ok and people watching)! Service is always prompt, friendly and with a smile. Food is amazing…especially the nachos with pulled chicken! Brews are cold, great variety of offerings. We also bring our 8 year old, as she loves it just as much!

The beers were good. The atmosphere is great! The whole market area is popping. So many different people. It is great. The food was ehhh. The salad was warm and soggy, not crisp.

We took some family from the UK to the Cheshire Cat while we were visiting Ottawa, and we were NOT disappointed! The portions were great, the food was great! Great selection of beers on tap, and the yorkshires were MASSIVE and unbelievably good! Brother In Law said it was the best roast beef dinner hes had in years! Bought some souvenir glasses on the way out as well. Had a great time, and will definitely visit again when we're in the area!

Located on the outskirts of Ottawa. Proper, stands this amazing stone pub. It looks like someone picked it up from a little village in Britain and dropped it down in the Carp countryside. Even before you step inside, the landscaping and flowers outside, set the tone. The Cheshire Cat Pub is one of a kind. The interior is a cozy, snug, welcoming place with so much character. The food is incredible. From British classics to more contemporary locally inspired dishes, you can't go wrong with anything on the menu. Sometimes it's a struggle choosing between one of their classics and one of their weekly specials. When they have the wood fire pizza oven going, the struggle to choose gets even worse. I love bringing out of town, friends and relatives here. No one is ever disappointed. Making the experience even better, is the wonderful staff. They are all phenomenal. Very friendly, very helpful. It's just a great vibe all around. They even get credit for having very nice and clean washrooms. The facility is also wheelchair accessible with a ramp entrance to both the indoor dining and their spacious patio. I really wish that they were on one of the delivery apps! Reservations aren't required but they are highly recommended.

We stopped here on the way back from the Diefenbunker and enjoyed a scrumptious meal. We both chose the Hot Beef & Yorkie and it was delicious. Super tender roast beef, mashed potatoes, seasonal veggies and a huge yorkshire pudding all covered with gravy. Such a homey and comforting meal. The one small negative thing would be that we wish the horseradish mayo came in a separate cup so we could add how much we wanted. We both found it a little too generous and overpowering in the dish. Next time I will ask for it on the side. We would definitely order this again but be warned it is a large portion. We did not have any appetizers and we didn't have room for dessert, which is too bad as I had wanted to try the Sticky Toffee Pudding. The staff was friendly and the service was great which is a definite plus these days. Can't wait to go back.

I love this place. Such an awesome atmosphere and many people waiting to get in. Definitely need a reservation but can be squeezed in if necessary. Service is excellent. So attentive but I actually just really like then all. I am coming back whenever I am near.

My wife and I stopped in at the Cheshire Cat Pub on Carp Road, and it didn’t disappoint. I went for the smash burger, upgrading to onion rings on the side, and it was absolutely the right call. The onion rings came out golden and crisp, and the dipping sauce hit the mark perfectly. The burger itself was spot on—juicy, well-balanced, and more than enough to fill me up. This place knows how to do pub food right. We even grabbed a steak and mushroom pie to bring home for tomorrow’s dinner, because one good meal here clearly isn’t enough. If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying spot to eat, the Cheshire Cat Pub is well worth the visit.

This was simply a great customer experience. The food was delicious and the customer service was good. We also got to play trivia for prizes. We came close to winning which made it even more exciting. My wife got her entree when the rest of us were almost done with our meals. This would have been a blot on the evening but it was removed from the bill without us asking. We will be going back!

Food: Absolutely amazing – the lamb pie is hands-down the best I’ve had. Beers: Fantastic selection, with each one seemingly better than the last. Service: Warm, friendly, and very accommodating staff. Environment: Outdoor seating: Unfortunately, the outdoor area has a significant bug issue. Sitting inside is a much better experience. Smell: There seems to be a nearby waste site, and if the wind shifts the wrong way, the odor can be overpowering – not ideal for a pleasant meal. That said, the staff did their best to help, placing candlewood around us to make it more bearable. Their effort and kindness really stood out despite the environmental drawbacks.

Food is delicious, so are the cocktails and wine selection. Sea scallops with barley risotto were amazing. We also appreciated that music wasn’t too loud.

Had a fantastic meal at Albion Rooms! I ordered the crab cakes and crudités—both were absolutely delicious, fresh, and full of flavour. The service was first rate—attentive without being overbearing—and the cozy atmosphere made the whole experience even better. A real gem. Would definitely recommend!

Located in the Doubletree by Hilton, formerly the Novotel across from the CF Rideau mall. Both stand up and sit down seating available. Not terribly busy. Set menu was decent price with friendly and attentive staff. Portion be are just right. Caters to more business and travel crowd clients of the hotel. A nice place to get away from the crowd.

I was welcomed by a friendly face and took my place at the bar. Ray the bartender quickly served me. He then went out of his way to see if the kitchen could serve me early. They could, and they did! The steak was done almost exactly how I like. I mean, so close! So good! I ate as much as I could and took the rest with me. It was a bit pricey, but if you are looking to spoil yourself, this is the place for you!

My experience was 50% hit and 50% miss. Had the supreme chicken and scallop risotto. The supreme chicken was excellent, highly recommend. Juicy and flavourful. But the scallops were terrible. Didn’t like the flavours and parts of the dish felt both overcooked and undercooked.

Stopped by The Albion Rooms Restaurant and really enjoyed the experience. The coffee was great, and the service was warm and attentive. A nice spot to relax and would definitely come back again.

Delicious foods in a very welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. The staff was very friendly and helpful in making decisions tailored to your tastes too! Price was fair in relation to the food quality - a little on the pricier side, but absolutely justified! Definitely recommend, would return when I have the chance! Delicious drinks, tasty meals, amazing dessert

We visited last night for a celebration and ordered the peppercorn steak and "Chicken Portobello Penne." The menu described the penne as "Penne with grilled chicken breast and portobello mushrooms," which led me to expect a whole grilled chicken breast. However, it was served with chicken chunks, likely only half of a chicken breast. When I noticed this, I wanted to change my order, but the waiter refused and said I would still be charged. I felt the quality didn't justify the price. The steak was much better, likely cooked over a charcoal grill, and the sauce was excellent. However, the steak was not aged and was of medium quality, so the texture was not the best, and it wasn't very tender. The taste, however, was good. The cocktail selection was limited, and they weren't made with real lemon or lime juice. The venue was also very crowded and noisy, more so than I prefer. Overall, it wasn't a bad experience, but I probably wouldn't go back.

The food was awful. I got the bruschetta, which I thought was something one couldn’t mess up. Boy was I wrong. The bread was cold and soggy, the cheese fell off, the tomato’s were barely diced. A pile of lettuce came next to it? Very weird. Drinks were fine. Service was awful, waiter was friendly but I had to ask for the bill several times before he finally got it for me. I waited 35 minutes for the bill. Seems a tad excessive… had to go in and actually find him. Would not recommend going here unless you’re extremely intoxicated and fine with horrible service and food

The food was alright but the service is what prompted me to write this review. It wasn’t busy at any point we were there, but service was slow. We ordered two drafts and waters and it probably took close to ten minutes for us to get our drinks and waters were forgotten. We order some apps, they come, and that was the last we saw our server. She never came back to ask how our food was, my spouse sat with an empty beer glass throughout half our meal and finally our plates were empty and she still never came, despite us looking over at her. Finally my spouse got up to ask for the bill, we paid and all she had to say was “do you want your receipt”… no “thank you” or “have a good day”. We’re easy customers so this was disappointing.

We stopped in for a late lunch, ate inside as it was quite hot outside. The waitress was very good, accommodating when we wanted to split a fish and chips and a beer. The fish was somewhat burnt and tough and the fries were nothing special. The beer selection was good. I’d go there for a drink, but not food.

Great beer selection and top-notch service! Atmosphere is pretty generic and lacking in character otherwise. Burger and fries were pretty disappointing, not bad but clearly cooked from frozen and again, generic. Serving size was great and the bacon on the burger was awesome, but perhaps I've been spoiled by pubs that make their own patties and fries. These are things that can be improved, but I likely won't be back to find out.

I absolutely love Sir John A!!! They have the most amazing staff and are always so kind and helpful. This is 100% a place we always make sure to hit when we go on nights out and is a great place for a couple nice drinks and conversation. Management are so nice and staff are all very accommodating!

First time going there and it was recommended by locals and I had googled it before going to Ottawa firvthe weekend and it sounded like our kind of restaurant. We were not disappointed. Next time we go to the city we will definitely eat there again.

Oh my god I will probably rave about the Jerk Lamb burger, I swear this needs to be a permanent item. It is so light, fruity with a nice spice and such a unique complex flavour. I have never had anything like it before. Also atmosphere is amazing this courtyard patio with the hanging vines and murals is definitely up my alley. Amazing spot

Amazing spot. Went here for a date night on a whim. Great vibes and aesthetics. Got the window seat and had no wait. We had great service, Jess was very kind and helpful! The food is so good. I had the burger and fries, and they were both top notch. Some places just don’t get the fries right. We had lots of fun and found this place to be a great experience. Ten outta ten, would do again.

My girlfriend and I came to this pub earlier this week not expecting much. We figured because of the location that the food would be trashy and expensive; however, that was not the case. Our waitress Kira did an amazing job at delivering our food quickly, and she was SUPER kind. My girlfriend said she was the G.O.A.T. and that she made our trip to Ottawa, despite it being her third day at the job. Service from the other waiters was also very quick, and overall a great service experience. The atmosphere was amazing; we opted to sit at the patio within the restaurant (which is like a secluded area that is outdoors with an open roof), and the atmosphere was amazing. The food was also really good and was not expensive. I ordered the chicken breast, and the sauce was so good, I ordered a Mai Tai as my drink, and after my experience here, I genuinely think this might be my new go-to drink. My girlfriend ordered the pad thai and a cider as her drink, and she also loved it. The portion for the pad thai was generous, and the peanut flavor was great. There weren't many options for ciders, although the one that she received she enjoyed anyways. We really enjoyed our night here; the staff is very welcoming, and the food and atmosphere are just as good.

In Ottawa for a few days and decided to grab a bite at the Brig Pub! My boyfriend and I really enjoyed the food ( recommend the Korean popcorn chicken as an appetizer). The service was great as well as the atmosphere!

nice place. calamari and fish + chips were splendid. good drinks. liked the mojito and paloma. Harry and Sidney were gems.

We were looking for a good spot to eat fish and chips. Our hostess Jessica told us we came to the right place, and she was right. The food was phenomenal. Jessica was so kind and very pleasant. This is now my fish and chips spot.

Last night, we decided to try out The Brig for the first time, and honestly, we were blown away! Just by walking in, the atmosphere was such a vibe. We tried the nachos, and I must say, they were life changing. I’ve never had nachos made with fried wonton chips before, and it’s honestly the best thing ever. Our waitress, Jess, was an absolute treat as well! She went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed and everything was right. Our drinks came out in a timely fashion and our food was nice and warm! She checked up on us, just enough, and always had such a bubbly and warm energy. From the romantic lighting, to the delicious food, to our lovely waitress, Jess, we’ll be sure to return! We HIGHLY recommend experiencing The Brig!

We liked the Lieutenant’s Pump quite a bit. They have a nice selection of draught beer options. The food options are quite good, and their beer selection dessert options are terrific. They also have some nice cold brew coffee options for after dinner as well. The staff is very pleasant and they work hard to take care of you.

Great specials will be back next Sunday. The services that I've received was not up to par & could use some improvement. (this was the third time I've came here & received declining service 2 of the 3). I hope next time I could get better service because i love the roast beef & don't want to be treated as an undervalued customer. Thank you EDIT* Went for Sunday dinner tonight, I had same ongoing problem with same exact server. She spoke with one of my guests that she knew as we were leaving and said I was rude & left with out paying which that was a lie. Very unprofessional and unpleasant as i had to hear this from my dinner guests. I don't think this establishment cares for my business and I won't be coming back cause that is clearly what they want. Not my loss but it's sad I can't be treated like a regular patron

New favourite breakfast in Ottawa. The service was friendly and quick. The menu had something everyone could choose from and so many tasty looking options. The potatoes were perfectly crispy and the fruit salad was a fresh touch! Great portions for a good price. We sat on the patio which was lovely.

What a cool place! The food was amazing and the prices were pretty good, too. The waitresses were great and checked on us a few times. I had the Honey Mustard Crispy Chicken Wrap and my husband went all out with the Double Trouble Super Burger with bacon and cheese. My wrap was one of the best wraps I’ve had and my husband really enjoyed his burger. I had a Watermelon Smash drink which was like a glass of fresh watermelon with a little extra kick. If you are in the area, do yourself a favour and try this place

Stopped in at the Lieutenant’s Pump for breakfast and it was spot on. The plate came with fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, sausage, toast, breakfast potatoes, and a side of fresh fruit salad. Everything was cooked perfectly and tasted fresh. Service was attentive and friendly, which made the whole experience even better. Solid place for a hearty breakfast.

It has a pub feel with lots of seating inside and out. Not much to complain about here. The food was good. The place was clean. We showed up, a family group of ten, and the staff did a great job for us.

I had breakfast at the Lieutenant’s Pump, and it was excellent. The meal included fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, sausage, toast, breakfast potatoes, and a fresh fruit salad. Everything was cooked to perfection and tasted great. The service was friendly and attentive, adding to the overall positive experience. A great spot for a satisfying breakfast.

Now this is a great establishment! The menu consists of mainly tapas which are meant to pair with certain wines and the server was very well versed on this. We had four different tapas and they were all exquisite. The Italian and Austrian wines we had were excellent. Though they do offer spirits as well the wines is what you come here for. All in all a fun and pleasant experience. 👍😎

As someone with multiple allergies, Soif Bar à vin was incredible! Not only did our server see my notes in our reservation for allergies but came back with the menu to let me know of the options I could choose from. Additionally they verified everything with the kitchen to make sure I was able to eat it. It is rare that I ever have options on a menu and was able to try multiple things for the first time in my life! The meals were delicious, easy small plates to share and have a bit of everything. I went in for a drink with friends, with little expectation on food and came out with a full belly, a wonderful evening and kind and gracious staff. Will absolutely be coming here more often!

Wonderful little place with a really great and quirky cork theme. I stopped by with two friends to celebrate my birthday. The wine flights were very nice and the charcuterie cheese board had some impressive offerings. Wine flights come in threes but you can’t mix and match). The service was prompt and the details offered about every wine was extensive. They know there stuff here for sure. They had a fair number of vegetarian options and all the staff were bilingual.

Fantastic overall. Service was first class, our server and his crew were very attentive. We basically had one of everything off the menu (everything is designed to be sharing plates). Charcuterie and cheese was great - a nice selection of cheese produced in Quebec and charcuterie that was a mix of in house and local. We aren't fussy about our wines - but the server gave us a good run down of what to expect with the various glasses we ordered. These were preceded by cocktails and mocktails, which were very well done. Food was mostly great (French onion soup - amazing, probably one of the best I've had ever; fries - shoe string style, my favorite; spaghetti alla chitarra - nice mix of flavours with lardons and mussels), some mid (bread - butter was a bit too salty and bread a bit on the chewy/dry side, but perhaps our opinions were biased as we had the most amazing sourdough earlier that day from a bakery; cauliflower/sunchoke - actually nice texture but we weren't a fan of the smokiness) and one a bit underwhelming (steak - wasn't warm when we were served and the kale imparted a bitterness that we weren't a fan of). Dessert was ++two thumbs up. Chocolate and caramel tartlet was greatly enjoyed! Atmosphere was great - only issue was the cork seats at the high-tops - ok for a short period, but by our second hour our table was taking walks to get off the seats for a few minutes! Will be returning - really enjoyed the overall experience.

What we loved about this place, besides the excellent wine and tasteful playlist, was the quality of the local ingredients. We had the cold cuts and cheese board, the bison tartare, and the cauliflower. It’s a sophisticated but not stuffy spot, perfect for a date night.

I found Soif while doing a search in Eater for restaurants in the area. We were looking for a place to have Valentines Day dinner while in Ottawa for two days. The review was amazing and our experience was even better. The staff was highly attentive and well-knowledgeable on the courses, ingredients, cooking style and wine. We had the prix fixe menu for the evening with premium wine pairings and I’m glad that we chose that. The seating and environment is intimate and I’d highly recommend it for a special occasion or anytime you’d like a great dining experience.

Exceptional experience, exceptional service, exceptional food and wine! The restaurant itself is cosy and comfortable and the staff are super attentive and friendly. The pairings were so good! Each sip was a surprise and the Quebec wines were our favourites. We very much enjoyed the chats with the staff about their choices for us. Very much recommended.

I really enjoyed my visit. The selection of local beers was excellent. The staff was very helpful, especially since it was my first time there. Mike and his colleague were particularly accommodating, allowing me to sample different beers to help me find something I liked. I look forward to returning.

I've been there for lunch several times, sitting both inside and outside, and it's a welcoming atmosphere. I've tried their pork belly club, tacos, chicken and waffles, in addition to other items and liked every dish. I found that the fries can be over salted at times but otherwise, I'd recommend. Being able to sit outside on patio is a bonus in Summer, and the overall service is excellent.

Food is a 10/10,the lady waitress was nice and prompt and the atmosphere is also cool,,the reason we chose this bar to see the Super Bowl was cos it said on thier profile that it’s kids friendly but it was a bit awkward cos it seemed other customers didn’t know it was kids friendly

Good food, good service, and a nice atmosphere. Had the pulled pork sandwich and it was delicious. The fries that came with it were cooked perfectly and seasoned really well. The lady who works here was also really funny and pleasant 😂. Looks like a nice place to get together with some friends and watch a hockey game. Big patio setup outside the restaurant too with a tent. The only problem is there isn't much parking available, so get there early if you want to guarantee yourself a spot!

Wow! Lovely interior, lots of patio and outdoor seating. Perfect temperature inside it was too cold but just right. The food was phenomenal, I was truly surprised. I had the steak sandwich and what came was amazing, the steak was cooked perfectly not over cooked at all. The fries were actually quite good nice and crispy shoe string fries. My boyfriend devoured the pulled pork. Honestly it was so good we didn't even take a picture. Or I didn't haha. 10/10 recommend

Been here twice, both times very impressed. Drove through traffic from Stittsville to eat and have a beer here. Veggie nachos are to die for- they have a special relish they put on it that makes it delicious. They support local breweries. Their house burger is fantastic. Servers are exceptionally friendly and responsive.

Bowman's is where quality shines. It's a laid back, relaxed pub with a small menu of pub classics. But this place is definitely a matter of quality over quantity. Everything they have they do exceedingly well. They offer specials in addition to their menu items, as well as different desserts. The staff are fantastic. They always greet you like you're an old friend and their attentive service makes you feel like you're important to them. The bathrooms are small but are always clean and well stocked. I highly recommend their Bowman burger and their dill-icious pickle chips (starter).

If you want to feel boujie (not on a budget) this is the place to be. We reserved a table for 4 which came with bottomless mimosas and 3 course set menu, $69 per person including tip. The service was amazing; they accommodated a last minute gluten allergy and my friends were late to the reservation. The server was super understanding and didn’t rush us, so we definitely appreciated all of this. We started with scones (they were tiny - pictured in the cage) with a very modest serving of preserves for 4 people. The second course you could choose one of two options from the set menu, both are pictured. We got 3 eggs Benny at our table and everyone’s poached eggs were hard (we wanted runny yolk, maybe ask for that specifically if that’s what you want as the server didn’t ask). My partner also had a tiny serving of preserves with his meal (as seen in the photo). We asked for more preserves for my partners extra scones that came with his meal and they allowed that- so thank you! Overall we were expecting more bang for our buck. We found that the cost for the amount and quality of food didn’t add up, however the atmosphere and bottomless mimosas was exactly what we needed. We will be returning for the vibes and nibbles but eating a meal elsewhere as the cost for value didn’t make sense.

Dearest gentle reader, it is only right to report that the fare at The Vanitea Room was nothing short of a Bridgerton-worthy feast. Each dish arrived with the kind of elegance that would make even Queen Charlotte raise an approving brow. 👑✨ The cream & lavender latte was smooth and fragrant, with floral notes as delicate as Daphne’s gowns, while the London Fog offered that familiar comfort — like a warm embrace after a waltz. The Turkish eggs were rich and indulgent, their velvety sauce adding layers of flavour that felt every bit as dramatic as a ballroom scandal. And then, the sweets — oh, the sweets! The Heavenly Cream Tea lived up to its name, a luscious blend of cream and indulgence that demanded centre stage. The dessert platters sparkled with variety: dainty pastries, chocolates, and treats that looked like they’d been plucked from a royal banquet. Each bite was refined, decadent, and impossible to resist. The Vanitea Room didn’t just serve food: it staged a Regency-era fantasy, complete with the kind of staff whose warmth and grace made us feel like esteemed guests of the ton. For those seeking high tea with flavour as dramatic as a Bridgerton plot twist, this is the address. 💌 To hear more about this review, follow us @eatinontario on Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, & Facebook. ✨🤩🙏

Came for a visit as a trio to give brunch a try. It has been since before the pandemic that I came here for brunch. Not much has changed, and that was very pleasant. The decor atmosphere are simply fantastic. The space has a really great vibe. We each tried a different dish and I have to say they were all quite solid. The shakshuka was an interesting trust using greens instead of tomatoes. The only real complaint I have is that the drinks seemed a little watered down but maybe I was off this morning. If you come, give some of the more extravagant offerings a try. You owe it to yourself to splurge a bit

What a beautiful experience Vanitea Room is. My daughters and I enjoyed a Sunday brunch in amongst what felt like a step into a space away from daily life. We enjoyed a fantastic meal filled with flavour and the most amazing home baked bread. The music was spot on A nostalgic 90’s vibe. Excellent service

While the service was great! The deserts for the afternoon tea were evidently all purchased from the grocery store down the street and had a flower placed on top to make it more presentable. The store bought muffins, two bite brownie, and slice of a sheet cake were not what I was expected when paying over $50 for afternoon tea. I would also not recommend going in the summer with the located having only a few fans to combat the no AC.

Service was polite and lovely however the food wasn’t very good. The eggs were rubbery, and the potatoes were small and almost too chewy/hard. The bread was very thinly sliced and toasted too much for the thinness of it. I like the decor but it’s not reason enough to go back.

Went for a drag brunch and have very mixed reviews, despite a wonderful Queen and very warm front of house staff. My review is based on the food, value and overall experience, which regrettably did not live up to the excitement I had while booking. I’ll sing the praise first. The Queen we had for this drag brunch was stunning. So beautiful and entertaining, despite being the only host. I don’t believe this was the plan - it was mentioned that another Queen had cancelled last minute, which was a little disappointing. It would have been nice to see the banter and dynamics of a duo, which is what we had anticipated. The wait staff was also very warm and genuinely seemed happy to be present. Our disappointment stemmed from the food and timing of the event. The drag brunch was scheduled for 11:30 am, so naturally we arrived slightly early and were seated and delivered drinks right away. The drag brunch is a set menu, which is understandable from a service perspective, but unfortunate if you don’t like what is being offered. This was the case for us. This could have been the normal procedure of the event (this was my first time going so I’m not sure) but it took 45 minutes for any table to receive food. When we received ours most items were cold including a potato hash, while the mini waffles were also quite soggy and underwhelming. What would have been considered the staple of the meal, kidney beans on toast, was almost indelible for me. In addition to the breakfast, I ordered a coffee, which is not included in the meal. Unfortunately the last swig of my coffee was nothing but grounds. Although this was very evident by the teaspoon of grounds left in my cup and all over the saucer, the waitstaff did not acknowledge this, offer a new coffee or offer to take the item off our bill. Nothing in the brunch felt or tasted luxury and sadly, myself and company left more than half the food behind. The drag performance was a welcome distraction from the food, although this part of the event started at 12:30 - 12:45 pm, which meant that the entertainment portion of the brunch lasted less than an hour. In short, we left brunch pretty hungry and very underwhelmed considering the experience cost us more than $200 for two people. I wouldn’t return to this establishment, despite the few good workers we encountered. Sadly, I would recommend anyone else considering a high end brunch to look elsewhere too.

The Laff in Ottawa was a cool oldest pub here with a cozy atmosphere and delicious poutine and refreshing cider beer. The poutine is perfectly cheesy and has a savory gravy on the fries. The cider beer on tap compliments it with a crisp, fruity taste. Finally the music of the longtime musician was great as he’d sing many classic American songs. Was a great place to go and hang out!!🍟🍺

Great visit to the oldest pub in Ottowa, friendly service and some great local beers on tap. Plus the Hot Honey wings were really good with the beers.

Enjoyed my first time visiting The Laff with friends in September 2025, while I was in town for a work conference. It was Tuesday Open Mic Night and the atmosphere was electric! Busy place with a variety of locals playing on stage …keyboard, guitar, trumpet…was a real blast! And here’s the kicker…I had so much fun on that hot September eve that I accidentally forgot my beloved black knit sweater that I have owned for decades and had been lovingly repaired recently by my Nanny. When I got home that week (3 hours from Ottawa) I realized I didn’t have my sweater with me and began the daunting task of trying to track it down…knowing my chance of finding it, much the less retrieving it at this point - 3 days later - was highly unlikely. I sent an email to the general email address of The Laff recalling I had worn it that night but wasn’t sure if it had made it that far into the evening…like I said, it was a gorgeous hot September evening so I had been carrying it with me from the hotel, to the conference centre to several shopping places, then to dinner…in essence, everywhere I went. To my surprise and delight a message from Dominique, the Manager at The Laff, appeared in my email inbox saying she believed she had found my missing sweater. After a few emails and a phone call, Dominque assured me she would reunite me with my sweater no matter what. She took the time to ship it to me at the company’s expense (I paid them back when it arrived). Dominique also sent me text message updates and made sure the shipping company kept me personally in the loop with regard to its return. LONG STORY short…I can’t say enough good things about this establishment and its dedicated, genuinely awesome staff. THANK YOU DOMINIQUE AND THE LAFF…you renewed my faith in strangers, gave me a great story to tell and have solidified me as a fan for life! I look forward to returning to Ottawa and spending more time enjoying the outstanding experience that is a visit to The Laff!!! 💯🎶🍻🙏

Ottawa’s oldest pub was a great experience. Spent about 4 hours here, sat at the bar spoke with bartender , met and spoke with a local plus many visiting Canadians. Would love to return as they have daily live music in evenings. Place has a great vibe, terrific staff and good range of beers and drinks. Did not try the food so cannot comment on it. Must support our local, Mom and Pop owned and operated businesses.

Love the old character and the great ambiance of this place. The little pictures and paintings here and there are wonderful. The bartender was professional and friendly. The burger and smoked meat sandwich were both amazing! And we tried some new beer that we loved as well. Highly recommended.

It was as I expected it would be, quite busy with a broad spectrum of ages. The atmosphere is definitely old school tavern. They had a good band playing but I didn't catch their name

Lovely staff, amazing vibe, and wonderful customers! I was visiting Ottawa and stumbled upon The Laff by pure chance. Charly, in particular, was incredibly kind and attentive. If you are looking for human interaction, The Laff is your place. Such a great experience!

Old Fashion Vibes! Food: Pub classics, Nachos and Fish n Chips highly recommended:) Regular menu and a late night menu. Kitchen closes between 9pm-10:30 depending on how busy the night is. Service: Kind staff

We went to Patty Pub for St. Patrick’s Day, and to say I was disappointed is an understatement. We’ve been going for three years with our daughter—it’s become a tradition. We arrived at 3:30 PM, waited 45 minutes, and were welcomed by the bouncer. When a table became available, he invited us in, but the owner, Carrie, immediately said, “No kids allowed.” Funny, since we’ve never had an issue before. In 2022, we sat next to her husband upstairs, and just last year, we sat downstairs (photos attached). When I pointed this out, Carrie abruptly changed her mind but rudely insisted we could only sit upstairs. After sending us back outside multiple times, she finally seated us at a table for three, knowing we were a party of four. When I mentioned it, she dismissed us again. My daughter was in tears, blaming herself. At that point, we left. This used to be our go-to pub (we live on Riverdale), but after being treated so poorly—especially in front of our child—we won’t be returning. The lack of consistency and basic respect is unacceptable.

This is an great place located in downtown Ottawa. Patty's Pub has good food and good service. Our fish and chips were rather thin and I suggest to get the two piece. The nacho's were over done as you can see by the photos. Service was good with our wait staff overly busy unfortunately. The decor of the restaurant could use an upgrade. Overall it's a good place to have a quick bite and a good beer.

I like their cozy atmosphere and delicious food. However, during our recent visit, our server, a woman with blue hair, acted unprofessionally. To our surprise, after we paid our bill, she questioned why we didn't leave a larger tip (in a bad way). Despite enjoying the food and location, I will never go back there.

I love the local and Irish tap beer selection. I love Patty’s sweet potato fries. Great Irish pub feel!!

Tonight, my friends and I visited this restaurant. I opted for the Caesar salad with shrimp, which was delightful. However, the fish and chips fell short of expectations. The French fries were overly dry, and the fish lacked flavor. Unfortunately, our dining experience was further marred by unsatisfactory service. The waitress seemed rushed, lacked good manners, and was openly displeased, even discussing and appearing angry about the tip. Overall, a mixed experience that left us wanting in terms of both food quality and service.

Came for a birthday ride. Not thrills or noise, just fast service done right. We came for a beer, got a beer. Servers speed walking throughout. No nonsense, just proper service and good beer!

I went here after reading reviews, and I am not disappointed. The beers tasted great. Though the food menu was limited, I could find something vegetarian for myself. I tried their dish named Mushroom, and to my surprise, it tasted delicious. The sourness of the gravy was balanced by the sweet, nutty filling inside the crunchy phyllo sheets. I would suggest they add more items to the menu, especially for vegans. Will visit again.

Good spot for an excellent craft draft beer. They also have a selection of cans to go. The menu proposes a few delicious options, and everything we tried was perfect and the portions were good. Good service and great music selection! Bathrooms were clean enough that I note it here. Will return, highly recommended!

I couldn't finish my plate. The mushrooms were good and meaty but the phyllo pastry with walnuts was horrible. The walnuts must have gone rancid. It might just be that I don't have the taste buds to appreciate this. Everything else about this place, the decor, the atmosphere, the service and the drinks were perfect.

Excellent beer, food, and service. The upscale food menu is a nice touch, as it blends pub fare with interesting and unique twists. We will be back for sure!

Comfortable spot inside and out. Very nice pub feel for a brewery. They usually cover a wide range for those looking for lagers, ipas, sours, and usually a dark offering. Food is very good for a brewery. Convenient location.

First day of the new menu and everything was scrumptious. We sampled fries, scotch egg, fried cauliflower, Nashville chicken and beet ravioli. All food and all beers were hits.

Service was slow at first, but the beer was worth the wait, every beer I had was outstanding.

While the cocktails themselves are fine, the price itself just doesn’t warrant what you get. The cocktails were okay but I’ve had better for far less of a cost. I feel they would be better off having more creative or unique cocktails. The patio and bar is nice and cute but seems like any backyard with lots of fairy lights, it’s also very dark. Overall I don’t think I’d come back unless they made some more unique drinks.

Nice craft cocktails, but expensive. Charcuterie wasn't very good and overpriced, pictured is the "6" option.

What a great experience! Cocktails were terrific thanks to Grace and her amazing service. My wallet had fallen out of my jacket pocket Grace found it and kept it safe and sound. Much appreciated.

Service was pretty good. We were placed in the back corner at this little intimate table for 2 with flowers set up on the table. We only ordered drinks tho and they were very strong for some that might be a good thing but for us it was not. Over all the place was nice might go back sometime.

We enjoyed lovely cocktails here. Service was great, and the atmosphere was welcoming and cozy.

Adore this place. One comment is that the chairs on the outside of the table would be better with backings just to make it more accessible friendly. Otherwise I love it. Popcorn, a garden, dealers choice drink options, moody ambiance..reminds me of places I’ve been in Paris and London or even Italy or Montreal. One of a kind for Ottawa for sure. I only had one drink but it’s great to go solo and just have a cocktail & read, for a date or a girls night with a bff.

I’m a huge fan of this place. The selection of wines is excellent, the atmosphere is great, and the new menu’s small plates are delightful. It’s an ideal spot for a delicious dinner, cocktails with friends, or a late-night drink. The staff are welcoming and well-versed in food and wine. It’s truly one of the best spots in Ottawa.

I've been here a few times in the past month or so, on date night and with friends. Everything from the service to the food has been great. So far, my hubby and I have tried the udon noodles, the wings, the perogies, the onion rings, sweet potato fries, and the fish and chips and for dessert the ice cream sandwich. Along with Sangria for me and rum cocktails for him. Food and drinks were delicious! The only reason I gave a 4☆ for the atmosphere is that the lighting is a little dim, especially upstairs, but the vibe is fantastic! Prices are reasonable, and I'd go so far to even say slightly under some other pubs, which have pumped up their prices quite a bit in the last two years. It was a pleasant surprise and our friends remarked on it as well. The menu is varied with vegan/vegetarian options as well. Parking is a bit dicey as it's Ottawa paid street parking until after 7 p.m., when it becomes free. After a storm, they didn't clear the roads well, so we had to park on/between snowbanks. But that's a city issue , not Pour Boy's, but I just thought I'd mention it. The only downfall to this pub is that it's not accessible. So, for those who are disabled/wheelchair bound , it's a no-go unless someone can help you over the door threshold. If you have reduced mobility, the lower level is fine, but the stairs are a bit steep to get upstairs, plus the bathrooms are also upstairs, so this might end up an issue as well. All in all, it's a great little place, and I'm glad it was recommended to me. It just might be our new go-to place for nights out with friends 🧡.

Decent prices on beer. Good weekly specials. Seating for about 30.

A great local watering hole! The price and quality of the food and drinks is excellent. They host themed events every day, such as trivia Tuesdays and open mic Wednesdays. The staff is friendly and the more you visit the more you fall in the with the vibe. Highly recommend!

An essential Ottawa-culture stop. Never a dull moment here. Friendly staff, fair prices, cold drinks, good food. Open till late. You won't find a better pub in the area.

Had dinner and some pints with my brothers while visiting from Halifax and was blown away by Pour Boy. The atmosphere, price point, service, and quality of product were phenomenal! The two servers we had we both funny, personal, and quick! It's definitely a gem of a spot! I'll definitely be back and would recommend this spot to anyone!

Extremely hot! Went with friends for stand up comedy acts in the upstairs area. It started much later than the mentioned time. Wasn’t the best quality of comedy. Food was alright. Drinks felt pricey - felt like they skimp on the amount of alcohol in cocktails.

Cheap beers!!!! Great service!!! Love the comedy night on Thursday, best indie venue in the city! Got sick from the fried tofu and wouldn't suggest ordering it to anyone, truly just little bites of oil.

Highly recommended. The food was delicious. For appetizer - bison carppacio & tomato salad (which was very very very good) - got the charcoal pasta & bison pasta (just WOW) - for desert we got the assorted sorbet with amazing flavors and the peach tea cake with the yummiest honey combs - It was worth every bite. Will definitely go back to try other things on the menu!

Nice afterwork neighborhood atmosphere and surprisingly larg on the inside. There is a backyard patio sitting area. The food is unique and semi avant garde but approachable for someone not used to such things. The staf was friendly. The food was delicious and the cocktails were amazing. The chocolate ravioli shouldn't work but it did.

This spot was recommended to us by a restaurant in the Market. They had dined here last week and couldn’t stop raving about it, so we decided to go with the wind of the night and try it for our anniversary dinner. Wow!!! We were blown away by how knowledgeable the staff were, not just about the food, but also the history and origins behind each dish and its name. You can genuinely feel the passion they have for the place and how warmly they welcome guests, as if inviting them into their home. The patio is beautifully set up and felt like we were dining under the stars with the string lights tucked beneath the umbrellas. The entire back patio has this atmosphere that just makes time stop. We ended up spending hours here. Every dish was carefully crafted and so well balanced. The mocktails were just as flavourful as any cocktail we could’ve ordered. We absolutely loved it. Huge thanks to Émilien, Shay, the team, and the kitchen for such a special three-course experience. We’re already planning our next visit.

Beautiful venue, attentive server, but the mains fell short and the drinks weren't tasty. The Puffed rice on the carrots was an odd choice and the bison was tough. Loved the Tomato and Namachi Crudo apps though. For the price one just expects a bit more when it comes to the flavor profile.

Friday night was a busy one, and we managed to get a reservation at the bar - my favorite spot to watch a restaurant work and enjoy my meal. The bar tender on Friday, Devon, was fantastic. He was present and attentive but he gave us time to settle in and sort out what we wanted. The menu is diverse and there is so much work out into all of the details. We had the Bison Carpaccio, the Sourdough and Fois Gras to start. The Fois Gras was lighter than most and without the metal flavor that is often present. It was made with more reduced chicken stock and less cream/butter - a great adjustment. We split the Sea Bream for a main and it was hot and perfectly done. The Beurre Blanc sauce had some rhubarb in it, and somehow it all just worked together. The bar service was spot on with a diverse selection of premium beer and wine. The restaurant works hard to find things you can't get at the LCBO. The cocktail program included gorgeous glassware and fresh ingredients. Everything contributed to a wonderful evening. We got to speak to the owner and chef Cam. They each stopped by to check in and we had a wonderful conversation about their craft. You can see from the leadership team's example why this restaurant comes off so serious about great food and service without feeling at all pretentious. If you're looking for a creative well curated experience to celebrate an occasion or just because you don't want to cook tonight - prepare to be pleasantly surprised and grateful you made the trip.

WOW ! If you love craft beer and food platters, it's the go to place. They go through over a 1000 different keg every year. Look at those plates, how can you not want that ? I would like to thank Stephanie and Anthony for their amazing service.

I took myself here on a lil solo date and had a wonderful time! The food was delicious - much bigger portions than I was expecting so I accidentally ordered a giant bowl of olives as an appy (would have been better shared between 3-4 people), the rabbit for my main, a cocktail, a beer, a cappuccino, and sorbet for dessert. Everything was delicious, service was very good, and it had a very cozy ambiance. I would come back for sure!

Great staff and good taps, the food wasn’t great really over cooked F&C. Atmosphere is nice and prices reasonable

Service and ambiance were just fine but food is always blend and overpriced. 19$ for chicken wings is never competitive and gravy portion way too cheap in their sausages meal. Will go back as colleagues enjoy this place but food is just not worth it… 62$ for this meal and a pint, I’ll let you judge if it worth it! Went back today with colleagues and tried the butter chicken. Tasted ok but portion was really small. Made the comment for the kitchen but know nothing will change as nobody cares!

Very good pub, it’s what you’d expect. The steak and mushroom pie was a little dry, and needed all the gravy and a little bit more. Beer was refilled when empty, and I enjoyed the country music even though some other people didn’t. The cauliflower bites were enjoyable

This is one of the only places open after I finish work. Tonight my partner and I went together and ordered a strawberry daiquiri each. I am Asian and extremely susceptible to Asian glow (I get red even after one ounce of anything). The strawberry daiquiris were meant to have 2 oz. I finished mine pretty fast and felt no difference at all, and had no visual indication that alcohol was consumed. We paid $80 (before tip) for our meals and drinks, and I only realized after the fact. The cocktails were $15 each!! :( never going back to Royal oak. My last visit before this was to a different location and when I asked to apply my student discount, I didn't know my student ID had expired a year before but I offered to show the bartender my active course schedule as proof that I'm still a student and she wouldn't let me finish my sentence and kept insisting only a valid student ID could be accepted.

Your typical run of the mill pub offering good eats and drinks. Service was excellent. Food was good and plentiful. It’s a nice large spot right in the heart of Ottawa able to accommodate large groups. Staff is very pleasant and accommodating.

the restaurant itself is beautiful, well cleaned and very obviously has a good management team, however our food NO taste/flavour. i don’t blame kitchen staff, i blame the food places they may be ordering from. servers are monotone and expressionless. “seat your self?” more like get forgotten about by rude servers. i have never been into a restaurant where the bar for staff morale is SO low. the only good part was the busser who was an absolute sweet heart. i’ve been waiting for 30 minutes for my bill as we speak. can’t wait to leave

Went there for team lunch. Service was very slow. It’s understaffed so I don’t blame the staff there… but man it’s not a pleasant experience when I have to wait half an hour for pub food. Food is overpriced for its presentation/portion.

Byward market location. Great views location. Historic. Decent flight of beer. Bartender...sorry Dude with long hair / painted nails.Stank of dirty pipe/ cigar? And I'm a cigar smoker. Prob just back from break. Tighter hygiene needed. Luckily my flight glasses didn't stink. Tempting menu but I just ate. Love to try fried tomatoes.

We ordered Ribs (it comes in half) the menu doesn’t say that. The ribs were chewy, maybe a different method of cooking, but we like prefer our ribs falling off the bone style. Every thing else was great, especially the service. The ribs gets 3 out of 5.

A must go to place. Food is amazing, you have to try the Cuban sandwich. Friends enjoyed their beers.

The atmosphere is very relaxing. The server was very friendly. The food was fresh and hot. Lots of GF options.

The staff is the nicest. The hostess are very sweet and kind they let you pick if you prefer to sit somewhere specific. The servers are also very kind genuine and check up on you but not bother you too much. Special thanks to the girl who was wearing sparkle eyeshadow and loose curls on jul-19 she made my birthday extra special. Food- we tried crispy cauliflower and they were kind to bring Tabasco to fulfil my spicy palette. Drinks- we had lavender Lemonade it was not sour at all, perfectly balanced taste. The vibe of the place is 10/10, staff is 20/10 definitely going back again! Oh and the best part they don’t close the kitchen early their kitchen is open till 12 midnight I believe so you can get drinks first and food later if you please.

All the staff are very kind, and the beer is great. Especially the Gose style and Pink Funk—they’re so good!"

Great beer and appetizers. Under construction and may at times be loud. Would still recommend.

Excellent spot for live music and pool (just not at the same time 🤣). Always a great time to be had at the Dom; drinks are fairly priced, event line up is always packed with local gems, and the crew here is solid.

It was nice talking to the one bartender, they will not allow you back in if you leave for 10 minutes to go smoke and have a half beer Plus waiting at the bar. Guy said it was past 2am and allowed others in just before me, told me I could not return? I will not be giving this place a visit again in this lifetime. I attempted to give this place another chance due to a previous bad experience over a half decade ago. I do not recommend this place if you are looking for a beer downtown look elsewhere. Cheers adventures.

The bartenders are always so polite and the bands they get are great!

Service is great, and as one of the few venues hosting metal, hardcore, and punk bands, they provide a much needed space for that. Beer/drinks prices are nuts though. $12 for a pint is insane.

Dominion Tavern This is a nice special place to enjoy live music. You can swim here while listening to music. The food and service man here are very good.

Dominion Tavern is a true local gem chill vibes, cheap drinks, great music, and a friendly crowd. It’s the perfect no-fuss spot to relax, shoot pool, and enjoy Ottawa’s real bar scene.

There's not really alot to do and there's an okay atmosphere, the bartender with the redish hair was really nice, and so was the owner. but that was about as far as the nice goes

Nice place for a drink and decent food. We enjoyed the food and atmosphere. Service was prompt and friendly. The fish tacos were good. The beef brisket sandwich was good. Would recommend.

Location: it’s right on Bank Street and easy to find. It can be tricky to get to from across the street as there are no crosswalks nearby. Parking: they have a parking lot but it is only accessible from one entrance on a side street so it’s not at all obvious if you haven’t been here before. The parking lot was also barricaded when I patroned the tavern(Sunday Afternoon afternoon) so I had to park on the street. Fortunately there is free street parking in the area. Seating: there is plenty of seating inside and there are a few tables in front on the patio as well. Service: Sadie was the hostess and my server. She was very welcoming, helpful with the menu, and came around every 10-15 minutes which was perfect. Drinks: The Senate Tavern has a great selection of local brews on tap with a decent variety of flavours. Food: I had the monster burger with onion rings. The burger was hot and spicy and in general quite good. The onion rings were quite tasty, the onions came apart easily, and they were served with a chipotle mayo sauce which was quite good. Washroom: there is a wheelchair accessible washroom on the main floor and the men’s and women’s washrooms are downstairs. The men’s washroom was clean but one of the sinks was not functioning. Extras: -local craft canned beer for sale in a cooler near the front entrance - sports games are shown on several TVs and the main game is even played audibly in the washrooms so that patrons don’t miss a moment of the game - there is kind of an arcade on the main floor with a shuffleboard table, table hockey, and a couple video arcade games. - There is an ATM in the basement. Overall, The Senate Tavern is a perfectly fine establishment with good staff at the location on Bank Street. If the parking lot was easier to access, the washrooms were fully functional, and the prices slightly lower, they could easily get five stars.

Friendly service. Spacious premises and clean. Prices pretty reasonable. The menu was very limited though, Others have commented on fish tacos, pull pork sandwich, beef brisket etc. Nothing of the sort was in the offing when I went. Essentially it was burgers and fries and some buffalo chicken wrap. Pretty standard run of the mill fare. Some might even say box-cutter stuff. Food was okay. If you want a quick bite, maybe to watch a game on TV (numerous) etc., then it's okay. Just don't expect the menu to wow.

Went with the family for a bday dinner. Limited menu. Had the beef dip with a side of poutine. Meh. The curds weren’t melted on the fries and the gravy was a gelatinous mass of goo. Unfortunately the same gravy was used in place of an au jus dip for the beef sandwich. Too thick, and only tasted of salt. Like canned gravy. Table mates had a variety of burgers and wraps, none were raving about their food. Great place for beers and the game, but disappointed in the food.

Wonderful first experience here. As it was a Monday afternoon, it was pretty quiet. Overall the service was friendly and attentive. The food was really good! Shared some nachos first and had a pulled pork sandwich. Nice sized portions and really tasty with a nice bit of kick to it. Decent beer selection as well. Definitely worth another visit.

Service was great but sitting at the bar was a horrible experience. The tvs are positioned in a way that your neck is going to hurt for the next 3 days. Sight lines are bad and if you are there to watch a game you will have to be smart about where you sit. Food was alright and I went when they first opened so the beer they sold to go had gone bad. I am generally confused by the standing/kids play area, but hopeful they make it into something cool. I am hope they fix some things and create a better experience as there is great potential here.

An experience that was ho-hum enough to prompt a review. The restaurant is beautiful and clean to look at and if sports is your reason, then go there. Lots of TVs. Food selection was quite limited. Other than fish and chips, the pescatarian in our group had no main dish choice so we opted for appys. Disappointingly, there was not enough cheese on the nachos and I would have preferred more toppings which were fresh. So after the top few were gone, we had a plate of chips. Other foods ordered were okay and that is as favourable as I can be. When it came time to pay, I don't think the server was going to give me a bill (only a total) until I asked for a copy. Bottom line, it was generally disappointing except for the company. I am unlikely to return.

We were there with our group to see Barry and the Blasters and to support the Christie Lake Kids Camp fundraiser. What a great night and fantastic intimate venue. It did get very crowded and warm and the servers were busy but all to be expected given the great turnout! Shout out to Barry and the Blasters for a fabulous show and for doing this fundraiser once again👍🤗❤️

One of the best live music spots in the city ! Been a few times to see locals bands play and it was always a great time! Great sound system, friendly staff and cheap beers! Would recommend buying the tickets online as they are a few bucks cheaper than at the door.

Sunday Blues Jam though they charge 5$ for all including jammers is fair for now a days , your getting a chance to play all types of genres and may I say that most genres stems from the blues. They all tell a story whether sad or happy or of hardship. This environment encourages the youths and anyone starting out in music, to experience playing in a band atmosphere and with experienced and talented musicians and singers. I say good on them for doing what they're doing 👌 💯 💖for plain Jane and the crossroad blues band Lovers of Music

Sunday Blues Jam — pay to play $ 5? I went to check out the Blues Jam at Rainbow Bistro and was surprised to learn that musicians are expected to pay $5 just to get on stage and play. This is an open jam. Most open mics and jams in Ottawa don’t charge the musicians anything, and some even offer drink specials or appreciation for the players. Here, you’re basically paying to provide free entertainment to the bar. Personally, I don’t think that’s fair, and I won’t be back.

Was an amazing night with a really unique atmosphere. Their drinks were strong and for a low price. Music was good, you can get amazing seats anywhere in the building since it's smaller. Would definitely recommend getting ear plugs either at the event (they sell them) or beforehand since the music is VERY loud. The venue I went to lasted from 8pm to 12am, with three bands, but I don't know how long single bands go for.

We were at the Bistro for a Saturday evening show. It is a great venue that showcase Canadian music. This was our second visit there and it was not a disappointment.

Really nice venue with lots of space and seating in the back and up on the balcony. The stage is really nice and elevated too. Atmosphere was really great. Definitely want to return and also try out drinks and whatnot

We had an incredible experience at The Social in Ottawa. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was warm, stylish, and inviting — perfect for a night out. The cocktails were absolutely top-notch, balanced with creativity and flavor that made each one feel like its own little masterpiece. The food was just as impressive. Every dish was beautifully plated and bursting with flavor — you can tell there’s a real attention to detail in both presentation and taste. The service was attentive without being overbearing, and the staff made us feel genuinely welcome. If you’re looking for a spot in Ottawa that nails the mix of great food, excellent cocktails, and a lively yet comfortable vibe, The Social is definitely it. We’ll absolutely be back!

Recently visited for a dinner. The atmosphere was nice. Table set up was fast. The food was really good. I had tomato salad with burrata cheese and salmon for main course. The taste better than expected. I am tricky eater but this time I really enjoyed the food. Worth the money.

My boyfriend and I decided to visit this restaurant for a date night last week, as we hadn’t seen any negative reviews recently. Unfortunately, we were very disappointed with the experience. Upon arrival, we were seated in what seemed to be the lounge area at a small table, away from the main dining room. This seemed to result in a lack of attention from the servers throughout the evening. We started with the scallop and boar belly fritter appetizer. It consisted of three scallops and two very small pieces of boar, something I didn’t expect as it was called a fritter. After waiting quite some time, our mains finally arrived. We knew it had been way too long and so did the servers since they apologized when handing it to us. I ordered the chicken ballotine, which was drenched in sauce and unlike any ballotine I’ve seen before. The sides of spinach and mushrooms were excessively salted, making that part completely inedible. My boyfriend ordered the pork tomahawk. While the meat itself was cooked properly, nothing on the plate was hot—not the pork, the potatoes, or the carrots. Ironically, the plate itself was hot, but the food wasn’t. The ramp pomme purée was bland, and although the chutney was good, there was very little of it. Overall, the presentation was messy and unappealing. My boyfriend works as a chef at a fine dining restaurant, so we fully understand that quality dining often comes with smaller portions and higher prices. However, the quality and execution here did not justify the cost. To make matters worse, the service was inattentive. We were never asked if our food was satisfactory, and there were no check-ins throughout the meal. For over $120, this dinner was a disappointment from start to finish. Unfortunately, we won’t be returning.

We had a fantastic dinner for two at Social in Ottawa. The atmosphere was inviting, and the food was superb. Every dish was flavorful and beautifully presented.

The smoked duck breast was perfection, with rich flavours, crispy skin, and tender meat. The spicy mango margarita was elevated and addictive.

Hands down the best meal out I’ve had in a long time! The duck breast and pork tomahawk we ordered were both perfectly prepared and absolutely delicious. The service was outstanding; the entire team worked seamlessly together to serve our group of six. Kieran was fantastic from the moment I called to make the reservation through to serving us at our table. Truly impressive hospitality, food and ambience. Highly recommend.

I coordinated a dinner for a group of 15 people at Social early this October. The dinner was held for VIPs of our company and we went with a prix fixe menu in the upper loft private dining space so we could chat and have a nice, formal dinner for our group. I coordinated everything remotely from Texas and our organizer, Jessica, was great! She made sure to gather all of our details, customize the menu, and be aware of all allergies and intolerances of the group so they could accomodate everyone. The food was excellent! Everyone was happy with the selection that was available and we received plenty of great feedback from our guests on the flavor and execution of all of the dishes. The custom/special drinks from the bar were a hit as well. The service was wonderful. Our server connected with me first to ensure the group was complete and that the timing for the courses was right. We received our drinks soon after our arrival and appreciated the water pitchers on the tables. Across the group we ordered all of the available items and received great feedback on all of them. I personally had the steak frites and while I'd normally want steak sauce, the steak was so flavorful and well-cooked that it definitely didn't need any! Overall we had a great experience at Social!

Came to Ottawa on a work trip and this was within walking distance to where I was and I was very impressed. The tacos were great. They were a bit busy so I felt like they took a bit longer to arrive but it was worth the wait. The drinks were also good but again it was busy so they did forget one of my drinks in the middle of my dinner. I believe my favourite one was the pig head taco. Amazing. If you see it on the menu - get it. Quite pleased overall with the restaurant as a first timer in the city and was worried that there wouldn’t be great spots but this is a good hidden gem.

Tacos were yummy, we each had 2 and felt it was filling enough along with chips and guac to start. 2 veggie taco options. Pretty pricey for what you get at ~$9/taco, also $16 for guac is very steep. Service was ok. We went on a Thursday night and it was pretty dark and loud.

Went to El Camino for dinner to celebrate my best friend's birthday, and honestly, it was a good vibe on a Tuesday. We kicked things off with chips and guac, then ordered crispy fish taco and cauliflower taco—both beautifully plated and tasted good. The virgin mojito was fresh and minty (perfect for the birthday girl), and my beer came with a salted rim (too much salt for my liking) and lime. We wrapped it all up with warm churros, coated in cinnamon sugar and served with caramel. Presentation was okay—everything is as expected. The ambiance? Cozy. I loved the carved wall art of horse warriors—so unique and totally photo-worthy. Prices are reasonable for downtown Ottawa: tacos are around $8.50–$9 each, churros at $9, and chips and guac at $16.25. A huge shoutout to our server, Alex—she was quick, attentive, and gave just the right amount of conversation without ever hovering. It wasn’t too loud, the lighting was moody but still okay for photos, and the place had a good energy. Just a heads-up: the chairs are tall, so if you're fun-sized like me, go for a booth.

I like the food here for the most part, I feel a bit bad posting this review. Basically the overall vibe from the staff isn’t good. One individual in particular who looks to be mid 20’s, overweight, wearing a hat that says forever .. I don’t think he could smile if his life depended on it. Terrible customer service -if I owned any type of establishment I would keep this guy as far away from paying customers as possible. My 2nd time here, Initially I was raving to my friends, now I’ll tell them to go to Hugo Taco down the street. People are the essence of your business. Not coming back. Picture of the guy attached

Another little hidden gem in the City. It had a fabulous reputation of being the best Tacos in the city. I was not disappointed. We had a mix of fish and chicken. The guacamole was fabulous and offset the green chili sauce. We didn't venture near the habanero sauce as the green packed a lovely punch. Averaging 9 bucks a Taco, it was a great experience. Servers were very welcoming and responsive. Highly recommended.

The name of restaurant is not quite easily visible (pic added here) Nice food and ambience however music was too loud to have a regular conversation and some tables are set too close to each other, if that matters to you. They do have indoor and outdoor seating. Vegetarian options available and a lot of tequila based cocktails. Chips and salsa tasted fresh and flavorful overall the food was good.

Came here as a recommendation for dinner on my first trip to Ottawa. We overall liked the restaurant, staff was friendly & the food was good. On a Sunday night, it was not super busy but there were enough people that it didn’t feel empty inside. A bit pricy but we also got drinks, and most trendy Mexican restaurants are like this these days. To start, I shared guac & chips - no complaints, we enjoyed and it was very fresh. The added tomatoes were nice. I ordered 3 tacos - the beef barbacoa was fine but the portion of dipping jus was tiny for 3 beef tacos. The best taco for me was the tuna tartare crispy taco. Loved the flavours and the fish was just delicious! My friends had the chicken tacos and said they were spicy but they liked them a lot. However, I did not enjoy the ox tongue taco and didn’t finish it. I ordered it because all the reviews about it were so positive, but I didn’t like how they just put two huge pieces of meat in a taco. It tasted very gamey and I didn’t like the spongy texture either. The piña colada cocktail was yummy - I could taste fresh pineapple and it was very creamy.

Great atmosphere, sat outside on their patio. Food was delicious - pizza Classico (minus the green olives) and requested a side salad that was very good. I would order my own pizza next time vs sharing!! Friendly, fun server. Be sure to go inside - it’s something to see!

Great cozy atmosphere with unique decor. They have a huge selection of beers/drinks...something for everyone. For dinner, my friend said the pizza was wonderful and I had the delicious Gorgonzola pasta (leeks & pears in a white wine cream sauce on jumbo cheese ravioli). The staff provided friendly service. I will make plans to come again next time I'm in Ottawa.

Got the a la Rosa pasta it was a 12/10. So freaking delicious. The service was amazing my server was named Taylor she provided exceptional service. The restaurant is very family friendly. Packed but managed to get a table right away. Quick and cost friendly. Highly recommend.

I was told the Italian owner married an Irish lady and wanted to have a bar. They could not decide whether it be an Irish pub or an Italian bar. They settled on the Pub Italia and the result is a funny worth-to-visit hybrid, decorated as a medieval time "church". Food is fine, pub expected variety with Italian influences. I liked the beer selection. Service good. Always busy, I like it..👍

Came here on a weekday afternoon, the place wasn't busy at all. The food tasted like it was microwaved. It was not very good, I'm sorry. The arancini was supposed to be fried, it tasted chewy and microwaved. Too hot in some spots and cold in some. The salad was mid. I wouldn't come back. Maybe it's better on a busy night.

Ceaser wrap was delicious, Ravioli was good. Beer was better. Busy place Lots of discussions on the decorations . Place you need to check out.

Amazing spot! So so cool I love bringing visitors to this spot and not telling them anything about it and surprising them with the amazing interior. Food was fine, service was very transactional and nothing special at all. The interior definitely makes up for it

"Lowertown Brewery: A Great Spot for Craft Beer Lovers" Lowertown Brewery offers a fantastic selection of in-house brewed beers. The beer flight is the perfect way to sample their diverse offerings. The service was excellent, and the addition of house-made chips provided the perfect accompaniment to the beers. We had a thoroughly enjoyable time. I recommend Lowertown Brewery to any craft beer enthusiast visiting Ottawa.

Sat at the bar, had great service. I ordered the smash burger, which was delicious, but is really more like a regular burger. Onion rings are between savoury and sweet, possibly in a beer batter.

We had an amazing time here and our server Lauren was so good. She looked after us so well on a very busy night, (the Blue Jays were playing). We had such a good experience that we went back the next night after checking out a few other local bars and again had an amazing experience. The supervisor Dimitra as well as Lauren remembered us and again made us feel so welcome. If I am ever back in Ottawa I will definitely come back. Thank you Lowertown 👍

I go to Lowertown Brewery every Tuesday for karaoke, and it’s honestly the highlight of my week. They offer full band karaoke, which means you get to sing with a live band—and they are phenomenal. 🎤🎶 Their range is amazing, and the energy is unbeatable. The service is top-notch, especially from Jason, the bartender. He goes above and beyond every single time. If I could give him more than 5 stars, I’d give him 10—he genuinely cares about his guests and it shows. 🍻 And let’s talk about the food… I usually order the pulled pork sandwich, and it’s hands down the best I’ve ever had. I’m gluten-free, and their gluten-free bun is not only delicious, but there’s no extra charge, which is such a rare and appreciated touch. 🙌 Between the amazing band, the incredible service, and the delicious food, Lowertown Brewery delivers an unforgettable experience every time. Highly, highly recommended!

Went with a large party. Ribs were tough. Flavour just slapped on the top with BBQ sauce. Fries and beer were good though. Service was OK, a little forgetful a couple times but they seemed to almost be overwhelmed at times. Atmosphere was good. Lots of “first time” or young drinkers on a Friday night, it seemed. But that’s to be expected, I suppose. An average, large generic modern pub experience for me.

Our sever was great! Friendly & attentive. Had the pulled pork tacos with Riverdale Red and both were exceptional!

Lauren was an amazing server. We loved her vibe and the attention she gave to our entire table. What a fan experience in the pub watching a game. An excellent vibe with an outstanding atmosphere. I highly recommend coming back to this fantastic venue! So I took my advice and came back to the pub. A Sunday night was another superb experience with complete personalized service. Dimitra, the supervisor was welcoming and greeted us as if we were regulars. She also shared some historical information with us since we are tourists. Lauren, our previous waitress also took the time to chat and make us feel welcomed and recognized. I would highly recommend Lowertown as a destination in Ottawa.

Drinks and food were tasty and perfectly served. The staff is very friendly and efficient. First time here, but will surely come back. We booked a table, but it was not crowded; I’d say you don’t need to book in advance

Love love this dining experience. Food is delicious. Cocktails were unique, very good. Service was excellent. We ordered a variety of appetizers which they kindly made a platter for us, making it easier to share. Highly recommend for an enjoyable evening out in Ottawa!!

I went here tonight for my birthday, and it was truly an amazing experience. Our server was incredibly knowledgeablesharing fun and interesting facts about every dish we ordered and they were genuinely kind and attentive the entire evening. The food was absolutely outstanding; every plate was full of flavor and beautifully presented. I couldn’t have asked for a better celebration. Highly recommend!

Everything from the table they gave me to the bill was excellent! Delicious vegan options. Was wholly impressed.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We celebrated our daughter’s 20th birthday at Union Local 613, and she absolutely loved it and so did we! The atmosphere was warm and vibrant, and the food was delicious from appetizers to dessert. Our server, Jamil, truly made the evening special, friendly, attentive, and incredibly knowledgeable. He took the time to explain the menu, suggested fantastic drinks and the grits (which were amazing!), and made us feel genuinely welcome. It was a perfect evening all around, and we’ll definitely be back!

I had celebrated my birthday here with friends and the staff were so kind and accommodating. Everyone was just so warm and welcoming, as well as very knowledgeable about the food and drink menus. Both food and drinks were absolutely delicious. The entire experience here went above and beyond my expectations. I will definitely be coming back. Thank you for making this a great birthday night for my friends and I! 🫶🏽

Absolutely loved this dining experience! The food was delicious, and the cocktails were unique and flavorful. The service was outstanding, and they thoughtfully arranged our appetizers on a shared platter, making it easy to enjoy everything together. Highly recommend for a fun and memorable evening out in Ottawa!

This was our first time at LOCAL Public Eatery at Lansdowne and it definitely won’t be the last! From the moment we arrived, the service was outstanding. The host was amazing — super friendly, attentive, and got us seated right away. Our server came over immediately and made us feel taken care of the entire time. We started with some drinks and shared a couple of appetizers — the Fully Loaded Crispy Potatoes and Fried Chicken were out of this world! For our mains, we had the burgers and fish tacos, and both were absolutely incredible — packed with flavor and perfectly cooked. They also have a happy hour worth checking out, with lots of great options. The atmosphere is fantastic — good music, great vibes — this place really has it all. We’ll definitely be coming back!

Being our first time here, we asked our waitress, Hannah, for the favorites. The items she suggested were fantastic. LOCAL burger, shrimp dumplings, fish tacos and tuna poke (which we did not choose). We did go back after the Sarah Millican show to have dessert (it was my birthday) and I asked Bella for the best, and she delivered...apple crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream! The next time we are in Ottawa, we will be back!

Wanted to try a new spot. Daughter thought of this one. I had huevos rancheros. Let's stop and talk about this. This place is not mexican at all.... However they got this one right!!! The taste was beautiful, colors where right, everything about this dish was great. Oh and the beer was cold!!! My wife had the Local Burger. A smashed 2 patties burger with delicious sauce. And yummy onion rings. Daughter had fish and chips. Was told it was tasty. The fries where perfectly cooked. You can tell fresh oil is being used. The only reason for not giving a 5 star was the mimosa was more orange juice. Let's talk service. Almost perfect. Everyone in the restaurant plays a role and help out. More then 3 different staff waited on us. Dropping off food quickly, refills, cleaning up empty plates, asking about more refills. And then the sad part the bill. Overall cost was good for three meals, three drinks and at Lansdowne. So in closing, I would recommend this place to anybody

The burgers (truffle) and sweet potato fries were DELISH!!! Even with a large crowd, the service was kind and prompt. There was an issue with the Ramen but it was quickly and kindly resolved.

Definitely a great place to eat and hangout although we got lucky, there was no football game going so no reservations were needed.

Eating keto can be tricky when dining out, but LOCAL Public Eatery Lansdowne always comes through. They’re super accommodating and never make me feel like eating differently should cost double. Big thanks to Hannah M for the top-notch service!

Absolutely loved my experience at this local eatery! The service was top-notch—friendly staff who really made us feel welcome. The food was delicious, with a great variety of options that catered to all tastes. Everything was fresh and flavorful, making it hard to choose just one favorite dish! If you're looking for a place with amazing service and really good food, this is it. I can’t wait to come back! Highly recommend!

This place is Bar like with booths for eating. Music was loud... but good. Service was quick and attentive. Helpful and friendly. Menu seemed inexpensive, but portion size was small. In addition, food came out of the kitchen super Uber Fast!! Suggesting and tasting like it was made fresh a few days ago and warmed up... and plated. I had the Texas BBQ... I did not taste any BBQ nor any Spicy as the menu suggested. .. For those Ottawa residents... think The Works, but louder and not as good food.

I wasn’t too impressed with this bar. The staff didn’t seem very friendly or welcoming, which made the experience less enjoyable. The music was uncomfortably loud, making it hard to have a proper conversation. The drinks and food were okay—fair quality but definitely not the best I’ve had. Overall, not a place I’d rush back to

I feel like it’s a real toss up ordering or coming here based on who is working in the kitchen. I always pay extra to have extra Mac sauce on their Mac and cheese because it’s a rarity that without that you won’t get dry noodles. But even when paying extra like tonight I’m bestowed sad naked bland noodles with enough Mac sauce to fit in one spoonful. It’s sad because it’s good when made properly, but there’s someone in that kitchen who doesn’t read instructions on orders that’s for sure.

We went to Warehouse around 10 p.m., and even though there was a line, we got seated really quickly in a cozy booth at the back of the restaurant—which made all the difference this time. We’ve been to Warehouse quite a few times now, and honestly, it’s been a hit or miss. The last two visits we were seated outside on the patio, and the music was so loud we could barely hear each other talk, which definitely affected the vibe. But this time was great—seating indoors in a booth gave us a much better experience. We could actually talk and enjoy ourselves, and I really loved that. Our server was super sweet and friendly. It did take a little while for our food order to be taken, but the place was pretty packed, so I understand the delay. I had originally planned to get the quesadillas, but unfortunately, they were out of the regular chicken and only had breaded chicken left. I was a bit disappointed since I was really craving the quesadillas, but I appreciated the option to substitute. I ended up ordering the mango salad with chicken, and while it wasn’t anything amazing, it was a nice lighter option since I’ve been trying to eat a bit healthier. My friend got their usual—the mushroom melt burger (sorry if that’s not the exact name)—and they absolutely loved it, as always. We also had a few tequila shots, which were super affordable and added to the fun of the night. The vibe was great, especially thanks to where we were seated. Food and drinks are very budget-friendly, which is a big plus. While Warehouse can be a bit unpredictable depending on the night and where you’re seated, this visit was wonderful, and I’d definitely go again.

I decided to stop in since I recognized the name from their Toronto location, but overall I wasn’t very impressed. The atmosphere gave off more of a college hangout vibe—cheap, mediocre service, and food that was just okay at best. The music was also quite loud, which made it hard to enjoy the meal. That said, it might be a good spot for university students looking for an affordable place to grab drinks and meet up with friends.

Was excited for the sourdough grilled 3 cheese and soup. Was sorely disappointed. Quarter of my sandwich had no cheese at all, the other side really didn't have much at all. Super thin layer. The other disappointing factor was they use American cheese, cheddar and Feta. Had the menu stated what cheese they used i never would have ordered it. Bread was really good, soup was tasty, the side poutine was cold. I also didn't receive any compensation at all. So if you have a complaint, don't expect it to be viewed seriously. Super disappointed.

This place is a vibe. Dark, grungey, unapologetically casual and that’s exactly what makes it cool. The atmosphere screams “I don’t care, but in a cool way” Perfect for college students or anyone down for a chill night out. The food? Cheap and way better than you’d expect. We grabbed calamari and tacos which were both solid. It’s the kind of spot where you can hit the bar for a drink, share plates with friends, and not feel like your wallet’s crying afterward. The bad reviews ? Middle-aged folks expecting Michelin-star service… like, relax. Nobody’s rolling out white tablecloths here It’s a grunge spot with string lights, skateboards on the wall, neon signs, cheap eats, and that’s the beauty of it. If that’s your vibe, welcome home 🖤

We grabbed dinner here on Thursday – their $2 oyster night and live music! We got 20 fresh ones for the four of us, and they were incredible. Love their source choices for oysters. Our mains (fish & chip, lobster spaghetti, and lobster + shirm roll sandwich) were great, too. The staff were super friendly and helpful. I'd totally eat here again if I'm back in Ottawa.

We were there last evening, two of us, always sit at the bar, to enjoy some great banter with the bar staff, oyster martini's, doz oysters, calamari, tavern steak....everything (as always) was excellent, just perfect, service always very attentive no matter who comes by, all the staff acknowledge you, and seem very pleased to have your business. We were not in a rush and were quite content to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, if you are making a night of it, take the time and enjoy!... One of the managers (long blond hair) tends to remember everyone, always greeting, very pleasant, these are people who truly enjoy what they do, working for Marriott for many years, the service industry could use more people like all the team at Whalesbone Elmdale, has become our Fav go to spot!

I went for dinner with my mom who uses a walker to walk. The food was incredible, service was excellent. What exceeded expectations and kindness. When we were getting ready to leave- the manager I believe, offered to bring my mom through the kitchen for ease and not steps to navigate for her walker. What a kind and thoughtful staff. As we walked through the pass through- all staff were so kind and welcoming. Biggest thank you to the staff. We will be back

It has bit of a rustic atmosphere that very much fits the tavern description and makes for a good place to drop around with the gang. Service was excellent but a bit slow. The food was quite good and we enjoyed oysters followed by a lobster spaghetti dish and fish and chips. The cheesecake was delicious.

Great vibes and the wine menu for bottles was fairly priced. Reminded me a lot of whalebone on elgin. Service and oysters were good as well!

Amazing place for amazing oysters… and many other awesome foods! A beautifully appointed restaurant with quaint and rustic decor reminiscent lof the 50s! Oh if these walls could talk! Established in 1934, fully updated and unique decor. Staff is incredibly attentive, very friendly and intuitive. Our server Jordan was amazing, as was our shucker… If you’re looking for a great evening out with excellent service, and excellent food, this is the place.

Food was mazing. Likely the best shrimp tacos I’ve ever had. Oysters were good too as were the mussels and the tuna ceviche. Lost points on the atmosphere as it’s doesn’t seem to align with the quality of the food (metal chairs were really uncomfortable and the wobbly table was distracting). That said, it won’t stop me from coming back. Already craving those shrimp tacos.

I dropped in with my gf for some food and drink. We arrived a few minutes before the end of Happy Hour and we were lucky enough to get the best the menu has to offer at a 40% discount 🤯 We had some amazing drinks and three apps. The whole thing was under 3 digits!!! I am usually not very price sensitive but this was just so amazing! GREAT SERVICE AMD DELICIOUS FOOD!! If you can stop in and take advantage of the happy hour menu, do it!!

A totally unplanned dinner at Prohibition Public House turned out to be an absolutely wonderful evening and culinary experience. This place has a cozy and hip vibe to it. Great music also sets the mood. We were greeted by one of the best restaurant hosts in this city, Sam was what every server in the restaurant industry should aspire to be like. The appetizers were exquisite, the main dishes perfectly executed , and the desserts were the cherry on top. I think I found my new favorite night-time food spot.

We were 6 persons. We were welcomed at the first gate and the waiter was super nice and he was explaining the restaurant concept and the story behind the restaurant name. Then we had a waitress which was super rude and we were all surprised about her bahviour and she was treating us like we are not welcome at all. And honestly this is the first time that we are treated like this. Starting by the way she was talking to us, we felt we are in an old convent nans school. And when asking her about ingredients because the menu is being changed every 4months and ingredients we are not familiar with, she said we are not in macdonalds. Also I also asked her to get a glass of red wine with less sugar that they, she replied I don't know and I am not supposed to read the ingredients on all bottles. Plus, the food took too long to be served like 35 to 40min if not more. And when it comes to pay the bill, we split it into 3 and each couple was adding the tip which we weren't suppose to give her any penny, she smashed the bill paper and throw it on our table and she said no need to put anything. It was very awful experience. Her name is Rebecca. And I didn’t mention that the food for all.of us was very salty which I am.pretty sure she added it to all our plates.

The food was a bit better than average, the waitress was pleasant and the atmosphere was amazing. We ordered 3 appetizers and 2 drinks, the total for the bill was around $105 before tip, which is about average for Centretown. I thought the interpretation of ceviche was interesting, but not for me. I prefer a more traditional approach. Although, the duck wings were quite good. I think that there’s definitely better options with better prices for a night out. However, I didn’t try any of the mains and I’ve heard the desserts here are quite good, even though they’re not made in house.

My partner and I came here and luckily caught the happy hour, which enabled us to try a few delicious appies and drinks for a very reasonable price! Our favourite was the mango and whipped cheese on sourdough- yummy! The service was also very great; we’ll definitely be coming back soon! Pictured here is the bee’s knees cocktail 🍸 definitely recommend!

What a great evening, the food and beverage were delicious and the server and bartender were on their game. Such a cool atmosphere as well.

We got a nice table on the outside patio without booking on a Sunday night. The service was friendly and efficient. My Red Wattle and Venison burger was brilliant - the most tasty burger I've had for a long time. My husband had the prawn and lobster rolls and said they were delicious. The fries were brilliant. Beer was ice cold and very welcome. Great meal on our first night in Ottawa.

What a view and excellent ambiance. We came post lunch so couldn’t really experience food but amazing cocktails. They have a water station by the corner as well. Not so crowded on a weekday noon and we could pick any table of our choice. We also saw some blankets for winters I believe - cute!

My husband and I biked here to grab some food. The trail to the tavern was beautiful and the weather was great. The atmosphere was very chill and causal with regular seating and sofas. We ordered this charcuterie board which was plenty for two people. Majority of the vegetables were pickled (which I love) but would be nice to balance it with some fruit.

-To preface this, my overall ratings are strongly influenced by food value.- Great atmosphere as you can see. The staff seemed very nice. Very expensive food. A single small-medium taco is $8. You'll easily crush two and will need 3-4 to feel satisfied.

Fantastic location next to the Rideau Falls with amazing views. Older facility and furnishings are showing their age. Great hot dogs and agree with most reviewers that it is a bit pricey. Washrooms are a tad on the rather dark side and felt like a cave. Attentive staff and manager walks around to oversee and help. A recommendation for one of the hidden gems for summer outdoor dining.

The location and the view are very nice especially at sunset and early evening . The music can be too loud at times. The food is average, better to go there for a drink and enjoy the view. Most of the staff are friendly.

Great salsa and guac. The tacos are so fresh, flavourful and made to order. Absolutely scrumptious. Service is impeccable and very friendly and helpful. The manager walks around to check in on guests and their experience a few times during a visit. Not at all pushy, just friendly and welcoming.

A Hidden Gem by Rideau Falls! 💎🌊 I originally stopped by because I needed a bathroom break 🚻 after visiting Rideau Falls — but what a wonderful surprise this place turned out to be! 😍 The view from the patio is absolutely stunning 🌅, and the relaxed atmosphere made the whole experience even more enjoyable 🍃. The drinks were fantastic 🍷🍷🍷, and the menu, while simple, was flavorful and perfect for the location 🍽️. We ordered an appetizer and two mains, and the total came to around $105 CAD for two people 💵 — which I found reasonable for the quality, location, and experience. Service was friendly and attentive 😊, and another bonus — there’s free street parking nearby 🚗🅿️, which is a rare find in Ottawa! Highly recommend for a casual yet scenic dining experience 🙌. I’ll definitely be back! 🔁

Great cocktails, good beer, and awesome servers and bartenders. Their signature cocktails are amazing. However, it is the view from the rooftop of the Andaz Hotel, especially on a cool evening that is the most remarkable. Great view of the Byward Market, Parliament, and Gatineau. Definitely recommend a stay at the hotel and/or a few drinks at the Copper Spirits.

I would love to tell them what they could do to improve.... but I can't think of a single thing!! My wife can't sit right at the edge so they put us in a booth elevated above all of the other tables for a much better, uninterrupted view!! The service was impeccable, not only from our sever but from any server or the manager who happened to pass by and notice that we might need something. We never felt rushed as you might think when you're taking up a six top with two people. I've read some reviews about the food and service not being worth the price, however; we spent almost 3 hours there, saw a beautiful sunset over a beautiful city, had gourmet food, perfect service, and excellent wine for $200 cdn. If you think that's expensive, we obviously have different standards. Don't miss it, you won't regret it!

My husband and I went up the this rooftop lounge for a drink to see the view. We shared a bottle of wine, which was so delicious. We didn't have any food, so I can't speak to that. The views were incredible! We were there for the sun setting and loved the timing. The staff lit the fires on the patio and with the reflection on the glass, some of the pictures looked like parts of the city were on fire.

This restaurant boasts the best view in all of Ottawa, making it an ideal choice for a scenic date night. However, the service is quite disappointing. The staff is slow and appears untrained, as simple tasks like bringing utensils and napkins are not being performed. The cocktails are just okay, nothing special, but the food is better, though the portions are minuscule. In conclusion, the restaurant’s stunning view is the only reason to visit.

Beautiful spot with great selection of strong drinks and amazing view. Service could use a lot of improving in terms of efficiency, but they were all nice with smiles just simply inexperienced/ forgetful.

The rooftop patio has an incredible view of downtown and the food is excellent. There was a live DJ while we there and despite a normal crowd, the service was very slow. We didn't stay for more than one drink as it was too loud for casual conversation.

Service was quite poor. Several tables had to wave to the server to get him to come to their table, and he forgot numerous things. He seemed more concerned with polishing cutlery than taking orders. We ended up moving to the bar to get better service.

Near perfect hipster brunch. The Belmont gives vibes of an old time bar with modern vibe. The decor is great, the atmosphere is jovial, and the servers are really nice. We had the poached eggs and Turkish eggs!!! Yum!! The servers gave us a side of the house made habanero sauce, which honestly was the best I have had in years. The bread was also made daily in house. What a great meal!!

Had a lovely bunch with a group of 6. Atmosphere was great for our group conversation. Service was impeccable and foot was absolutely delicious 😋 High quality, moderate portions and size. Very happy with the experience. Thank you The Belmont! Like this review if helpful 🙏

Food is good, cocktails are well made, and there is a great vibe to the place. It's a bit pricey for the quantity of food your getting but the food is worth the experience. You will want 3 or 4 dishes for two people. I will say that the cocktails and drinks is what you are coming here for and the great atmosphere.

Had a great experience here! The service was super friendly, our server gave us great suggestions for shareable plates. The chicken was hands down the best dish of the night, absolutely delicious! I’m already thinking about coming back for that. The beef tartare was also really well prepared and full of flavor. We started with the Classic Belmont and it was a perfect choice, really tasty. Great vibe, great food, and great service. Definitely recommend and will be back!

Had a delightful meal here on a busy Sunday. Turkish eggs were excellent(with a side of home fries and the IPA was nice. It was very busy, but we were able to get a seat. Service as a result could have been a little more fulsome, but understanding that it was a full restaurant and they were kind enough to seat us without a reservation.

The Belmont is a cute and cozy little gem of a place in Old Ottawa South. It's small, so make a reservation. We wanted to try a selection of dishes so we ordered the "family style" which is a five-course table d'hôtes menu. The thought and effort that goes into creating the dishes shows! Service was laid back but attentive. Adrian, the owner, was there and he took the time to chat with us. We'll definitely be back and look forward to trying his new restaurant, Ruby, when it opens in Clarendon Court in the Byward Market.

I don’t come here often but when I do I always enjoy it. The food is great, staff are friendly and I like the cozy environment. I had the French toast and devoured every bite. The kitchen was running a bit behind and they were so apologetic and offered us a discount on our bill - but to be honest my friends and I were enjoying catching up so much that we barely noticed. The frequent coffee and water refills helped and the fact that we never had to ask was also appreciated. I hope to come back soon.