Looking for the best bars and restaurants in Ottawa? Here’s a list of seven top spots where you can enjoy great food, drinks, and a fantastic atmosphere.
1. The Manx Pub
Location: 370 Elgin St Suite No. 1, Ottawa, ON K2P 1N1, Canada
Phone: +1 613-231-2070
Hours
- Monday to Wednesday: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Thursday to Friday: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 10 AM – 11 PM
The Manx Pub has been a staple in Ottawa since 1993. Located on Elgin Street, it’s a cozy spot with board games, books, and a welcoming atmosphere. They offer a variety of delicious food like Lamb Curry Wrap and Tofu Tacos, along with a great selection of local brews, wines, and whiskeys. It’s a popular spot, so arrive early as they don’t take reservations and can get crowded.
Pros:
- Long-standing establishment
- Cozy, inviting atmosphere
- Board games and books available
- Diverse food and drink menu
Cons:
- No reservations
- Limited seating
Customer Reviews
- “What a pleasant surprise from an unassuming pub with some seriously unique vibes! It was both my friend’s and my first time here and we were blown away by how delicious the food was.” — Eric Ding, Google Reviews
- “The Manx always has great service, beer, food and vibes. One of the best-hidden gems in Ottawa.” — Erin Benton, Google Reviews
2. Stolen Goods Cocktail Bar
Location: 106 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5C7, Canada
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 6 PM – 2 AM
Stolen Goods Cocktail Bar is a small, intimate venue on Sparks Street. Known for its curated menu and expertly crafted cocktails, it offers dishes like Dressed Oysters, Tomato Salad, and Beef Tartare. The bar serves an array of cocktails, bourbons, wines, and beers. With a unique ambience, this bar is a go-to for cocktail lovers. Reservations are recommended and can be made through email or OpenTable.
Pros:
- Intimate atmosphere
- Curated menu and drinks
- Unique cocktail selection
- Merchandise available
Cons:
- Small venue
- Reservations only via email
Customer Reviews
- “My new favourite cocktail bar in Ottawa. Incredible food based on seasonal ingredients with an extensive, creative, and innovative cocktail list.” — Ziad Saab, Google Reviews
- “By far my new favourite spot for a night out in Ottawa! Sexy space, creative dishes and cocktails with an extensive back bar selection.” — Hannah Wilkins, Google Review
3. Patty’s Pub
Location: 1186 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3X9, Canada
Phone: +1 613-730-2434
Hours: Monday to Tuesday: 4 PM – 11:30 PM
- Wednesday to Sunday: 12 PM – 11:30 PM
Patty’s Pub is known for its friendly service, authentic ale, and classic pub food. It’s a great spot to enjoy dishes like Shepherd’s Pie, Salmon Boxty, and French Onion Soup. With a dog-friendly patio and a warm, rustic interior, it’s a comfortable place to relax and enjoy a meal or a drink with friends.
Pros:
- Authentic pub atmosphere
- Dog-friendly patio
- Friendly staff
- Good selection of beers and pub food
Cons:
- Some items may be expensive
- Closes early
Customer Reviews
- “We loved Patty’s Pub! Hands down the best French onion soup I’ve had in a long time. All the food was delicious, the beer was perfect, and the staff was so friendly!” — Amanda Gallo, Google Reviews
- “A quiet neighbourhood gem. Patty’s Pub has two sides: a perfect patio and a warm, cozy pub inside. Great for summer or winter, always good service, good people, and good food.” — Mark Hughes, Google Reviews
4. The Hyde
Location: 15 George St, Ottawa, ON K1N 6Z6, Canada
Phone: +1 613-422-5111
Hours: Wednesday to Saturday: 4:30 PM – 2 AM
The Hyde is located in downtown Ottawa and is known for its stylish and warm atmosphere. The bar offers a selection of specially curated cocktails like the Witless Comeback and Terry’s Orange, as well as wines, beers, and spirits. The food menu is limited but includes standout dishes like Five Spice Pork Belly and Seasonal Halloumi Salad.
Pros:
- Stylish and inviting atmosphere
- Excellent cocktail selection
- Easy online reservation
Cons:
- Limited food menu
- Closed Sunday to Tuesday
Customer Reviews
- “I definitely recommend visiting this little spot! The bartender Jeff is lovely and very welcoming. My friend and I shared the cauliflower which was so delicious, truly one of a kind.” — Dani Gibbons, Google Reviews
- “Awesome new spot in Ottawa! Jeff the bartender is so talented, he made me a super yummy off-the-menu drink! Plus, the music was perfect, cute decor/lighting, & there was an awesome ambience.” — Mara Wheelehan, Google Reviews
5. 10Fourteen
Location: 1014 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2X9, Canada
Phone: +1 613-422-8610
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 5 PM – 2 AM
10Fourteen is a vibrant spot on Wellington Street, known for its cocktails, beer, and live music. The bar serves a variety of food, including Charcuterie, Jerk Chicken Nachos, and Cauliflower Wings. With its pinball machine, board games, and live guitar music, 10Fourteen offers a lively and fun atmosphere.
Pros:
- Lively atmosphere with live music
- Great cocktail and food selection
- Fun activities like pinball and board games
Cons:
- Some items may be expensive
- Some service issues reported
Customer Reviews
- “Absolute gem of Ottawa, super friendly, amazing food (nachos are chef’s kiss) and a lovely atmosphere! Definitely will be going back soon!!” — Cam Magdy, Google Reviews
- “The cocktails here are expertly crafted, and their nachos are genuinely excellent. The staff is friendly and engaging, contributing to a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere.” — Nof Alharbi, Google Reviews
6. The Laff
Website: www.thelaff.ca
Address: 42 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S6, Canada
Phone: +1 613-241-4747
Hours: Open every day from 11 AM to 2 AM
The Laff is one of the oldest and most well-known bars in Ottawa, open since 1849. It has been known by many names over the years, like The Exchange Hotel, Grant’s Hotel, and The Dominion House.
The Laff offers ten live shows each week. You can listen to bands, enjoy open mic nights, or attend fun house parties. There’s always something new to do every week.
Their menu includes a variety of dishes like poutines, nachos, salads, main meals, and snacks that reflect the local flavours. Although they are open until 2 AM, the kitchen closes at 9 PM, so be sure to order food before then.
The Laff is a great place to enjoy delicious food, listen to live music, and meet friendly people. The staff is warm and welcoming, and the tavern is full of interesting stories and history.
Pros:
- Friendly atmosphere and staff
- Rich in history and culture
- Lots of music and events
Cons:
- The kitchen closes early every day
Customer Reviews
- “This is the oldest tavern in Ottawa, a must-see for visitors. They have a great selection of beers and spirits, plus some food options if you’re hungry. Saturday is especially fun when Lucky Ron plays; it’s a tradition here.”
- “I’ve been to The Laff a few times and love the casual, friendly vibe. You can grab a drink, find a table, and if you’re lucky, hear some good music. They have a good selection of local beers and generous portions of snacks, all at great prices. The location is central and convenient. I’ll definitely stop by again when I’m in the Byward Market.”
7. Lowertown Brewery
Website: www.lowertownbrewery.ca
Address: 73 York Street, Ottawa, Canada
Phone: 613-722-1454
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Sunday to Wednesday: 11:30 AM to 1 AM
- Thursday to Saturday: 11:30 AM to 2 PM
Lowertown Brewery is proud to be a part of Ontario’s craft beer scene. They have an open kitchen where you can smell ribs, brisket, and chicken cooking slowly. This pairs perfectly with their wide selection of craft beers.
Located in the busy ByWard Market, Lowertown Brewery is easy to reach for both locals and visitors. The brewery’s central spot in this historic area makes it a great destination for beer and food lovers.
Besides craft beers, they also make creative cocktails. Their mixologists are always working on new and exciting drinks to try.
Lowertown Brewery is a great place to enjoy a variety of craft beers and tasty food. Their open kitchen and central location add to the fun and inviting atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for beer enthusiasts and people who love a good meal.
Pros:
- Wide variety of craft beers
- Open and friendly atmosphere
- Creative and tasty cocktails
Cons:
- Limited details about the brewing process
Customer Reviews
“This brewery has a large patio, a great selection of beers, and delicious food. You have to try the buttermilk chicken sandwich. The inside is also really fun and worth checking out if you’re looking for a good time in the market.”
“I want to give a big shout-out to Amber, one of the bartenders! She always has the biggest smile and makes me and my friends feel special every time we visit.”
