Canadian Food Scenes to Discover this Fall, Part 2: Ottawa

Coming in at #28 on the Canada's 100 Best Restaurants List, Riviera is a high-end, creative spot focusing on Canadian cuisine and cocktails served against the impressive backdrop of a heritage bank building on Sparks Street. You’ll find elevated versions of mushrooms on toast with shaved black truffle, wedge salad with bagna càuda and Nordic shrimp, and dry-aged striploin steak frites with bordelaise sauce. Seats at the long and alluring bar are hot tickets, not just to watch the cooking but also to focus on star mixologist Stephen Flood’s sophisticated creations, which include 10 inspired variations on the Negroni.

Atelier, which opened its doors in 2008, is home to a never-before-seen concept: the 40-course tasting menu. Dishes from his massive tasting menu arrive in multi-item flights, their themes varying from the conceptual to the intensely technical and modernist. Chef-Owner Marc Lepine has concocted an interesting and innovative menu that is predicated on surprises: a miniature Manchego-tinged “air waffle” that dissolves almost instantly when you pop it in your mouth; fried P.E.I. oysters with chili oil and sea asparagus; a freeze-dried “space salad.” As Canada’s 100 Best puts it, “Tables are allotted for a daunting four hours, but the relentless onslaught of quality culinary entertainment makes that time pass swiftly.”

Located in the vibrant neighbourhood of Centretown, Arlo pairs comforting, seasonal inspired dishes from chef Jamie Stunt with a vast natural wine selection from sommelier Alex McMahon. Food goes beyond simple bar snacks — hits include espelette-peppered Quebec shrimp and shatteringly crispy chicken skin with roe-bottarga dip. The thoughtfully explorative wine list and classic and seasonal cocktail selection offers something for everyone.

Nestled in the heart of Wellington Village is Supply and Demand, a relaxed eatery revered for its small plates, pastas and oysters. The tuna crudo is revered by regulars – it features lightly truffled and lemony albacore, garnished with puffed wild rice and cilantro, and a salad of exceptionally tender kale with caper vinaigrette, bacon and a cloud of grated Manchego. The open kitchen overlooks the dining room, adding a warm convivial feel.

In a converted Centretown townhouse, North & Navy’s Adam Vettorel is whipping up antipasti, pasta, luxurious mains and classic dolce, all while playing off similarities between the climates of eastern Ontario and northeastern Italy. The menu is inspired by tradition and dictated by the quality and availability of ingredients, but you’ll always find the staples, like Venetian polpette, vitello tonnato, and steak fiorentina.

Cocotte Bistro is a classic French restaurant inside the Metcalfe Hotel in the heart of Ottawa’s business and tourist district. Their menu highlights the flavours of France in a spacious open-concept dining room inspired by the decor of French bistros. The geometric black-and-white tiles, impressive marble bar and rich green velvet banquettes set the stage for a refined dining experience that features locally-sourced fresh ingredients and seasonal creations. Look for the signature dishes served “en cocotte,” a classic stoneware baking dish that is a staple of French tables. 

Perch’s motto is “playful elegance, built on sustainability.” This open kitchen experience in the heart of Ottawa’s Little Italy neighbourhood showcases local, Canadian ingredients prepared in full view of the diners. With a focus on seafood and fresh flavours, popular dishes include lobster risotto, seared scallops and grilled octopus.

You’ll find Tavern at the Gallery tucked away in the hidden courtyard garden of the National Gallery of Canada! Enjoy the smooth blend of fine art and fine food as you sip on craft beer, cocktails, or wine. Don't miss this uniquely Ottawa dining experience and be sure to add this enchanting patio to your Ottawa trip itinerary during the warmer months!

The National Arts Centre’s 1 Elgin offers a fine dining experience with a sophisticated atmosphere and an impressive view of the city skyline and Rideau Canal. This restaurant is proud to showcase the fresh flavours and ingredients of Canada throughout their exceptional Canadian and Indigenous dishes. Focusing on local seasonal ingredients, 1 Elgin’s menu is a culinary experience that indulges the senses.

Mati is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in Ottawa’s Little Italy neighbourhood. The menu includes a variety of small plates and sharing platters, as well as a selection of delicious raw and charcoal-cooked seafood dishes that showcase the restaurant's commitment to bold flavors and creative presentation. Their cocktail program blends high-quality ingredients, craft ice, and beautiful glassware to leave a lasting impression on every guest.