What Tastes of Ottawa Offers
Tastes of Ottawa is a personal food review site focused on one thing: the food itself. Every review is based on firsthand visits to food establishments mainly in the Ottawa area, with a focus on how each dish actually tastes and whether it’s worth the price.
I’m a food enthusiast who genuinely enjoys exploring new restaurants. Trying different cuisines, discovering hidden gems, and revisiting popular spots is something I actively seek out. Over time, I’ve built strong personal preferences and standards, which means I can be quite particular — and at times, a harsh critic — when it comes to food quality and value.
Why I Created Tastes of Ottawa
Most restaurant reviews online rely on vague star ratings. A place might get 4 or 5 stars, but it’s often unclear what that rating actually reflects. Is it the food? The service? The ambiance? Or everything combined?
That lack of clarity is exactly why I created Tastes of Ottawa.
This site focuses specifically on the food and whether it delivers for the price. I wanted a more transparent and consistent way to evaluate dishes — something that actually helps people decide what to order and whether it’s worth their money.
In my personal life, I’m often the one friends and colleagues turn to for restaurant recommendations. This site is essentially an extension of that — a way to document and share those opinions more broadly.
The EV Score
Every dish is rated using the EV Score — short for Enjoyment-to-Value.
The EV Score is based on two things:
- How much I enjoyed the dish (flavour, texture, execution)
- Whether the price feels justified for what you get
Service, decor, and ambiance may be mentioned for context, but they do not impact the EV Score. The goal is to keep the rating focused and consistent — strictly about what’s on the plate.
Learn more about how the EV Score works.
How Reviews Are Done
All reviews on Tastes of Ottawa are based on my own visits and experiences:
- I personally visit every restaurant
- I pay for all meals myself
- I take all photos myself
- All opinions are my own
I am not paid to provide positive reviews, and no restaurant has influence over what is written here. The goal is to keep everything honest, consistent, and unbiased.
What to Expect
Reviews on Tastes of Ottawa aim to be straightforward and transparent. Some dishes will score highly, others won’t. If something is disappointing, it will be reflected in the review.
This is not about promoting restaurants — it’s about documenting real experiences and helping others set expectations before they go.
If you’re looking for clear, no-nonsense food reviews focused on taste and value, you’re in the right place.