Ottawa’s culinary scene reflects the diversity, creativity, and agricultural richness of Canada’s capital. From bustling markets and neighbourhood eateries to refined dining rooms led by innovative chefs, the city continues to build a reputation as one of Ontario’s most exciting places to eat.
Located in the historic Sandy Hill neighbourhood in downtown Ottawa, Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa Culinary Arts Institute is the only Canadian campus of the world-renowned culinary training school. Visitors can experience the school’s culinary expertise firsthand at its on-site Bistro, where guests can enjoy classic French cuisine prepared by the institute’s chefs and students.
Ottawa’s food culture blends local traditions with global flavours. In the spring, maple syrup season brings the region’s beloved sugar shack culture to life just minutes from downtown, celebrating one of Ontario’s sweetest agricultural traditions. The city has also earned a reputation as Canada’s unofficial shawarma capital, with countless family-run eateries serving the Middle Eastern staple across neighbourhoods throughout the city. The excitement doesn’t stop there. Ottawa’s festivals and food events bring the city’s flavours to life year-round—from maple celebrations and street food festivals to the culinary offerings of the ByWard Market. Seasonal favourites like Winterlude and the Canadian Tulip Festival offer even more ways to explore the capital!
As one of Ontario’s designated culinary tourism destinations, Ottawa’s chefs, restaurants and local food producers work together through Taste Ottawa to showcase the region’s ingredients and connect diners with the farmers, artisans, and makers behind them. With so many flavours to explore, Ottawa invites visitors to discover its ever-evolving culinary scene.
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If you’re looking for lodgings that depart from the regular hotel or B&B digs, we suggest the Ottawa Jail Hostel.
Pack yourself a picnic by heading to the Seed to Sausage General Store where 95 per cent of the products are locally sourced.
If a pre-made picnic is more your style, head to Thyme & Again Creative Catering.
With your ploughman’s lunch packed head on over to Gatineau Park, for a hike.
Before you leave town hit up the Lansdowne Farmer’s Market on Sunday morning. If you want to score one of the legendary loaves of jalapeno cheese bread from Art-Is-In Bakery be sure to arrive early— they sell out fast. If you miss it at the market, you can still visit Art-Is-In’s retail bakery, located in a converted warehouse, where the team serves up their full lineup of baked goods, sandwiches, and pastries.
Exploring the Region?
Here are a few great places to start.
A PROUD MEMBER OF THE CULINARY TOURISM ALLIANCE.