The Official “Unofficial” Foodie’s Guide To Ottawa

Eat and drink your way through the city!

Ottawa is known for its museums. But a stop in the capital city isn't complete without a visit to one of the many "Unofficial" Culinary Museums that make up the restaurants around town. Hungry? Here are some places in Ottawa to check out:

1. La Bottega Nicastro – The Unofficial Museum of Saying Panino Instead of Sandwich

@botteganicastro / Via instagram.com

When you first enter this Italian market, you'll be blown away by the aisles of artisan pasta, wines, and other gourmet groceries. By the time you make your way to the back, you'll have worked up the appetite to grab some ready-to-eat salads, cafe delights, pizzas, and, of course, their famous sandwich bar.

2. BeaverTails – The Unofficial Museum of It's Not What You Think

@beavertails / Via instagram.com

No, they're not actual beaver tails! They're just shaped like them. They're actually a sheet of thin, crispy fried dough that's then slathered with delicious toppings. They're the perfect treat on any day! 

3. Shawarma Palace – The Unofficial Museum of Secret Spices

@shawarmapalaceottawa / Via instagram.com

As soon as you step foot in one of their seven locations, you'll smell all the tasty flavours in the air. From crunchy pickles to fresh tabouli, dress your sandwich to make it even more mouthwatering. Make sure to pick up some baklava for dessert!

4. The Merry Dairy – The Unofficial Museum of Great Scoops

@themerrydairy / Via instagram.com

These are not your typical ice cream flavours! This small-batch shop has something for everyone (including vegan, gluten-free, and soy-free options) that'll satisfy your sweet tooth every time.

5. Alicja Confections – The Unofficial Museum of Postcards You Can Eat

@alicjaconfections / Via instagram.com

Nothing says 'I love you' quite like chocolate, and you can mail your affection to your fave peeps with a postcard chocolate bar (and pick up some bonbons for yourself, of course). Play it safe with crowd-pleasing flavours like Cookies and Cream or try a more adventurous concoction like Ramen Bowl. 

6. KIN Vineyards – The Unofficial Museum of Pinot Noir

@joesitalkitchen / Via instagram.com

Summer is the perfect time to book a tour of the 47-acre estate and learn how your favourite varieties are made (and how they survive the Canadian winters). Then, you can taste a few paired with a yummy cheese and charcuterie board while enjoying the view. Or head on over to Joe's Italian Kitchen on-site for a wood-fired pizza if you're still hungry.

7. Beyond The Pale – The Unofficial Museum of Grabbing a Cold One

@btpbrewing / Via instagram.com

If beer is more up your alley, then you'll find no shortage of brewed creations at Beyond The Pale. Between Sea Shanty nights, their Smoquehouse eats, and seasonal flavours, there's always something to do at this lively taproom.

8. Zoe's – The Unofficial Museum of Pinkies Up

Instagram: @zoes.ottawa

Treat yourself to a fancy afternoon between 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on any day at this afternoon tea spot at the Fairmont Château Laurier. Your selection of elegant tea snacks include savoury selections like cucumber cream cheese sandwiches and desserts like lemon meringue macaron.

9. Golden Palace – The Unofficial Museum of Legendary Eggrolls

@goldenpalaceottawa / Via instagram.com

Fried to perfection, the eggrolls at Ottawa's oldest Chinese restaurant are the perfect appetizer to start your meal with. You can even find them at the Canadian Tire Centre to snack on while you cheer on the Ottawa Senators.

10. SuzyQ Doughnuts – The Unofficial Museum of Round Treats

@suzyq.doughnuts / Via instagram.com

Perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself), the pillowy doughnuts at SuzyQ are a must for sweets lovers. Keep an eye out for their seasonal and pop-up flavours if you've already tried all of their permanent ones.

11. ByWard Market – The Unofficial Museum of Locavorism

@bywardmarket / Via instagram.com

Like a little bit of everything? The market has it all. Grab a bubble tea from Wang's Noodle House while you check out the local artisans, and then pick up some super fresh goodies for your perfect summer picnic. 

12. Equator Coffee Roasters – The Unofficial Museum of Not Knowing the Difference Between a Cortado And a Flat White

@equatorcoffee / Via instagram.com

If you take your coffee seriously, then you'll meet your match with this fair-trade roastery/cafe that's been in the bean biz for decades. Besides their cozy locations outside of the downtown core, you can grab your latte inside the gorgeous National Arts Centre, too. Don't forget to pick up a bag or two for home! 

13. Riviera – The Unofficial Museum of Seafood Towers

@dineriviera / Via instagram.com

From the 25-foot ceilings and open kitchen to the fancy fare, you'll definitely want to make a reservation at this ritzy resto on Sparks Street ASAP. It's housed in an old bank with modern touches that give it some seriously cool vibes and makes it a go-to spot for a little 5-to-7 or a special occasion.

14. Oat Couture Oatmeal Cafe & Montgomery Scotch Lounge – The Unofficial Museum of Oats and Scotch

@oatcouturecafe / Via instagram.com

This unique cafe will teach you not to underestimate the power of a hearty bowl of oatmeal with both sweet and savoury options to try. Then watch it transform into a scotch lounge at night with over 75 single malt scotch varieties to sip on.

15. Farinella – The Unofficial Museum of Pizza by the Metre

Instagram: @farinella.ottawa

If you can never get enough slices, you'll have to head to Farinella in Little Italy or Kanata to get a pie that stretches a metre long (or half-metre). With fresh, delicious toppings and gelato for dessert, your belly with thank you. 

Whether you're looking for a pit stop between visiting official museums or looking for something unique and new to try, check out more of Ottawa's "Unofficial" Museums. From culinary delights to art, entertainment, family-friendly spots, and sites in nature, find more inspiration for your trip to Ottawa here!