I mean, who doesn't love food? In Ottawa, we're always looking for the next best restaurant to feel like we're trendy. There are a ton of great restaurants right now, but a lot of them are getting more love than others for amazing reasons.
We're nothing like Toronto or Vancouver with restaurants opening up pretty much daily, but when they do open up, we take notice and we try out the restaurant ASAP. From boujee new bars to just regular American food, us Ottawan's will be supportive of any restaurant that comes our way.
Here are the 11 hottest restaurants right now, and ones you need to try out if you haven't.
Bar Lupulus
Where: 1242 Wellington St W
Type: Mediterranean inspired
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: You should go because Bar Lupulus JUST opened up! Not only do they have delicious Mediterranean inspired dishes, but they have 20 draft beers that will pair perfectly with your meals. This restaurant is definitely on the fancy side of the spectrum for Ottawa, but that doesn't mean it's not laid back.
Citizen
Where: 207 Gilmour St
Type: Small plate, snacks
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: I mean, it's named after the beloved newspaper, Ottawa Citizen, that we all know and love here in Ottawa. Besides that, it's a sister restaurant of Town, but it's like the cooler, older sister that stays out all night and parties. Citizen has small plates and snacks, with a few bigger items on the menu. This is totally a restaurant that would be popular in 2017, and we can see why!
Pinelopi's Greek Kitchen
Where: 4100 Strandherd Drive
via @pinelopisrestaurantottawa
Type: Greek
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: Ever wanted to travel to Greece, but too broke? Don't worry, That's what Pinelopi's Greek Kitchen is here for. This is the most authentic Greek food you'll find here in Ottawa, and even better, it's a family run restaurant so you know it's legit. Their food is to die for and with one bit you'll feel like you teleported to Greece.
Riviera
Where: 62 Sparks St
Type: Canadian
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: I mean, besides how beautiful the decor is, the food there is to die for. If you're a foodie, you'll absolutely love the choices you have to make on the menu. From drinks to your main course, there is really nothing you won't fall in love with on the menu!
The Rex
Where: 40 Adeline St
Type: Canadian
Price: 💸
Why you should go: This is probably the most simple restaurant out of the bunch, but that does not mean it's not good. If you're a simple eater, you'll fall in love with The Rex. The restaurant has such a cozy atmosphere that makes you automatically want to eat their delicious soup and sandwich. They also have fancier options than that, and they can make anything vegan/gluten-free for you!
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Why you should go: This beautiful restaurant has been popular for a while now, but it definitely doesn't get enough love as it should. From unique pastas to seafood dishes, you'll want to come back here for every special occasion. They also have a huge wine list, so you'll feel even fancier! They're only open for dinner, so plan around that.
Burgers n' Fries Forever
Where: Multiple locations
Type: American
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Uhm, why shouldn't you go?! They have the most insane burgers out of anyone in Ottawa, and insane meaning unique and delicious. Have you ever eaten unicorn coleslaw? No? Okay, well then you haven't been to Burgers n' Fries Forever. They have so many burger options that you won't know which one to choose, but no matter what one you do, you'll be drooling.
Allium
Where: 87 Holland Ave
Type: New Canadian
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Allium is open for lunch and dinner, but they also have a tapas menu that is definitely their most popular. Their fancy buttermilk fried chicken is actually everything, but the dishes here will simply melt in your mouth no matter which one you try.
El Camino
Where: 81 Clarence St
Type: Contemporary Mexican
Price: 💸
Why you should go: Who doesn't love Mexican food? And margaritas? I know I do. El Camino got it's popularity at it's Elgin Street location, but it's even more popular now at it's ByWard Market location. With a huge patio and an even bigger location, it's a must try now (but it's great at both locations). Whether you like tacos, churros, or cheesy corn, this is the place to be for all things Mexican.
Sutherland Restaurant, Bar & Coffee House
Where: 224 Beechwood Avenue
Type: Canadian
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: First of all, the decor is stunning in here. From light pinks to greys and whites, you'll fall in love as soon as you walk in. And then fall in love harder when you taste the food. They're open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, dessert and they have a bar and coffee shop. So you can see why this restaurant is so popular!
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