Best Ottawa Restaurants by Neighbourhood (Updated for 2026)
Ottawa’s restaurant scene is best experienced neighbourhood by neighbourhood. Each area offers its own mix of atmosphere, cuisine, and local favourites, making where you eat just as important as what you order. This guide to the best Ottawa restaurants by neighbourhood highlights standout dining spots across Ottawa, Ontario, focusing on areas locals frequent most, including Downtown Ottawa, Centretown, the ByWard Market, Wellington West, Elgin Street, and Bank Street.
This list was reviewed and updated for 2026 to reflect current menus, dining trends, and restaurants that continue to be consistently recommended by locals.
Downtown Ottawa
Downtown Ottawa is home to some of the city’s most refined dining experiences. These restaurants are well suited for special occasions, business dinners, and nights when atmosphere and service matter just as much as the food.
Riviera
Located near Parliament Hill, Riviera is one of downtown Ottawa’s most recognizable restaurants. Known for refined Canadian cuisine, strong cocktails, and a polished yet welcoming dining room, it is a top choice for celebrations, client dinners, and upscale evenings in the city core.
Beckta Dining & Wine
Beckta is a long-standing pillar of Ottawa fine dining. Best known for its tasting menus and extensive wine program, this downtown restaurant is ideal for intimate dinners, anniversaries, and diners looking for a classic fine dining experience.
Aiana Restaurant
Aiana offers elevated Canadian dishes with thoughtful presentation in a calm, elegant setting. It is a strong option for formal nights out and special occasions in downtown Ottawa.
Centretown
Centretown blends residential charm with some of Ottawa’s most creative, chef-driven restaurants. It is a favourite area for locals who want high-quality dining without a tourist-heavy feel.
Arlo Wine & Restaurant
Arlo Wine & Restaurant is known for its seasonal tasting menus, carefully curated wine list, and intimate dining experience. Frequently recognized on national best-restaurant lists, Arlo is a top choice for date nights and food-focused evenings in Centretown.
Fauna
Fauna delivers contemporary Canadian comfort food with bold flavours and a lively atmosphere. It is especially popular for dinners with friends, casual celebrations, and relaxed nights out.
Dark Fork
Dark Fork offers approachable fine dining with a focus on locally inspired dishes. It is well suited for diners who want quality food in a relaxed, unfussy environment.
ByWard Market
The ByWard Market is one of Ottawa’s most recognizable neighbourhoods, combining nightlife, culture, and a wide range of dining options within walking distance of major attractions.
Buvette Daphnée
Buvette Daphnée is a French-inspired wine bar known for small plates, an excellent wine selection, and an intimate atmosphere. It is ideal for relaxed evenings, pre-dinner drinks, or low-key date nights in the Market.
Chez Lucien
Chez Lucien is a long-time Market favourite, known for classic French bistro fare, generous portions, and a consistently lively dining room. Its burgers and late-night hours make it one of the most beloved casual restaurants in Ottawa.
ALORA Ottawa
ALORA offers Italian-inspired dishes across multiple levels, including a rooftop patio during warmer months. It is best suited for group dinners, social evenings, and summer nights in the heart of the Market.
Wellington West
Wellington West is one of Ottawa’s most food-forward neighbourhoods, known for locally owned restaurants and a strong sense of community.
Supply and Demand
Supply and Demand is a Wellington West cornerstone, best known for seafood-forward dishes, house-made pasta, and ever-changing seasonal menus. It is consistently recommended by locals and considered one of the best neighbourhood restaurants in Ottawa.
Elgin Street
Elgin Street combines nightlife energy with dependable dining, making it a popular area for evenings out.
The Whalesbone Elgin Street
This Elgin Street location of The Whalesbone is known for fresh oysters, quality seafood, and a casual yet polished dining experience. It remains a go-to spot for seafood lovers in central Ottawa.
Bank Street
Bank Street stretches through multiple neighbourhoods and is home to some of Ottawa’s most consistent dining institutions.
The Whalesbone Bank Street
The Bank Street Whalesbone location offers the same strong seafood and oyster program the restaurant is known for, serving diners across Centretown and the Glebe area.
Best Ottawa Restaurants by Neighbourhood at a Glance
Downtown Ottawa: Riviera, Beckta Dining & Wine, Aiana
Centretown: Arlo Wine & Restaurant, Fauna, Dark Fork
ByWard Market: Buvette Daphnée, Chez Lucien, ALORA
Wellington West: Supply and Demand
Elgin Street: The Whalesbone
Bank Street: The Whalesbone
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s best restaurants are spread across its neighbourhoods, each offering a distinct dining experience. From fine dining downtown to chef-driven favourites in Centretown and Wellington West, exploring where to eat by neighbourhood is one of the best ways to experience the city like a local.
This guide focuses on central Ottawa neighbourhoods with the highest concentration of established and consistently recommended restaurants, making it a reliable starting point for anyone looking to eat well in Ottawa in 2026.
