Chelsea Pub Review – Relaxed Vibe, Friendly Service, and a Standout Burger – Average EV Score: 6.2/10
Reviewed by Tastes of Ottawa
Each dish is rated using our EV Score (Enjoyment-to-Value Score), based on enjoyment, price paid, and benchmark pricing.
Table of Contents
Chelsea Pub Overview
238 Chem. Old Chelsea, Chelsea, QC J9B 1J3
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.
One of the first things you’ll notice is that there is a fair amount of street parking available right in front of the restaurant, making it convenient even during busier times. The building itself is quite large, with plenty of room to accommodate a high volume of patrons. On warm days, the patio is a highlight. There’s a wraparound patio along the front and side of the restaurant, plus a back patio that offers a quieter, more tucked-away space. Combined, these patios make Chelsea Pub a great option for outdoor dining.
Inside, the atmosphere is casual, rustic, and welcoming. It feels cozy without being cramped, with décor that reflects its role as a community pub. The staff were friendly and attentive, not just going through the motions but coming across as if they genuinely care about providing good service. That effort is noticeable and contributes to the overall relaxing vibe.
What makes Chelsea Pub stand out compared to many pubs is its food quality and menu options. Often, pubs are known more for their atmosphere and drinks than for their kitchens, but here the food is quite good and worth coming for on its own. Two dishes frequently recommended are the Chelsea Burger and the Duck Poutine, with the latter being a specialty item you don’t find at many pubs. Both of these, along with a range of sandwiches, salads, and mains, give Chelsea Pub a menu that feels more thoughtful than average.
Would return?: Yes.
Chelsea Burger
😋 Enjoyment: 8/10
💰 Price Paid: $26
🎯 Benchmark Price: $20
📊 EV Score: 6.2/10
🔁 Order Again?: Yes.
The Chelsea Burger is the pub’s signature dish, and it’s clear why it’s recommended so often. It comes with two beef patties, bacon, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, and their house Chelsea sauce, all stacked on a bun with fries on the side.
The beef patties were perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavourful without being greasy. They had just enough seasoning to enhance the natural beef flavour without overpowering it. The bacon added a smoky crispness, and the cheddar was nicely melted, binding the patties and toppings together.
The Chelsea sauce stood out — creamy, tangy, and slightly savoury, it tied the burger together and elevated it beyond a standard pub burger. The toppings were fresh, adding crunch and balance, though the bottom bun was a little soggy by the time I finished, likely from the juices of the patties and sauce. It wasn’t a dealbreaker, but it did make the last few bites a bit messy.
The fries were decent, golden and lightly seasoned, though not the star of the plate. Still, they paired well with the burger and rounded out the dish.
While the burger was really good, it’s a bit overpriced for just a burger at $26.
Overall, the Chelsea Burger felt like a step above your average pub burger, both in size and flavour. It’s hearty, satisfying, and worth ordering again.
Final Thoughts
The Chelsea Pub succeeds in being more than just a local watering hole. Its large space, multiple patios, friendly staff, and relaxed atmosphere make it a great place to gather, whether you’re a local or just visiting after a day in Gatineau Park. Unlike many pubs where food takes a backseat, Chelsea Pub offers a menu that is both creative and satisfying, with items like the Chelsea Burger and Duck Poutine helping it stand out.
The Chelsea Burger was a highlight, delivering flavour and size. The beef was cooked well, the sauce elevated the dish, and the overall balance of ingredients worked. While the soggy bun and average fries kept it from being perfect, it was still an excellent burger worth recommending.
In the end, Chelsea Pub is a place that blends casual comfort with better-than-expected food quality, making it an easy choice for a meal with friends. It may not be destination dining for those outside the area, but if you’re near Gatineau Park or looking for a reliable spot with good food, drinks, and atmosphere, it’s well worth a visit.