Big Rig Brewery YOW Review – A Convenient Airport Meal That Gets the Job Done – Average EV Score: 5.8/10
Big Rig Brewery is located inside Ottawa International Airport (YOW), and realistically, that fact alone shapes the entire experience.
I don’t care about the view — I care about the food
Brewery & Pub
Hintonburg Public House Review – Memorable Burger but Disappointing Fries – Average EV Score: 6.3/10
Located in Hintonburg, the Hintonburg Public House is a neighbourhood spot that offers a casual atmostphere with a mix of pub staples and rotating specials. Like many restaurants in the area, there’s no dedicated parking, so you’ll need to find a street spot nearby. It’s expected for the neighbourhood, but something to plan for if you’re driving.
Chelsea Pub Review – Relaxed Vibe, Friendly Service, and a Standout Burger – Average EV Score: 6.2/10
Located in the heart of Chelsea, Quebec, the Chelsea Pub has long been a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. Situated just a short distance from Gatineau Park, it naturally attracts a steady stream of runners, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who stop in for a drink and a meal after enjoying the park’s trails. It has become a kind of community hub — a place where you can relax, chat with friends, and enjoy food that is a notch above what you might expect from a typical pub.
Heart and Crown Preston Ottawa Review – A Classic Irish Pub Experience in Little Italy – Average EV Score: 4.8/10
Heart and Crown is a well-known name in Ottawa, with several locations spread across the city. This review focuses on their Preston Street location, right in the heart of Little Italy. Unlike the bustling ByWard Market branch, which is famous for its nightlife scene, this spot feels a bit more low-key, at least on weeknights. When we visited, the restaurant wasn’t very busy, which made it easy to grab a table and settle in without feeling rushed.
Beyond the Pale Ottawa Review – Surprisingly Good Ribs in a Great Patio Setting – Average EV Score: 8/10
Beyond the Pale is one of Ottawa’s most recognizable breweries. It’s known first and foremost for its beers and its very large patio, which makes it a go-to spot in the summer. The patio is spacious, dotted with long communal tables and string lights, giving it a relaxed, social vibe. It’s the kind of place that works equally well for after-work drinks, weekend hangs, or casual group outings.
Tavern on the Hill Ottawa Review – Great Views, Forgettable Food – Average EV Score: 3.4/10
Tavern on the Hill sits in one of the best locations in Ottawa, perched near Major’s Hill Park with a view that rivals most patios in the city. The restaurant is part of the Tavern Group, which operates several well-known spots around Ottawa, all of which seem to lean heavily on prime real estate and big patios as their main selling point.