I don’t care about the view — I care about the food
Djakarta Taste is an Indonesian restaurant that, on paper, looks like it could fill a unique niche in the Ottawa–Gatineau food scene. Unfortunately, my experience here left me with little desire to return.
The Britannia Bakeshop is in a great spot—right off the bike path and just a short stroll from Britannia Park and Beach. It’s a convenient stop if you’re out for a ride or walk in the area, with a small but cozy interior and a few outdoor seats.
Pelican Grill is located in a plaza on Bank Street, and honestly, you wouldn’t necessarily expect to find great seafood in a spot like this. The plaza is filled with fairly ordinary businesses, and if you were just driving by, you probably wouldn’t peg it as home to one of Ottawa’s best-known seafood restaurants. That hidden-gem quality makes it even more enjoyable once you step inside.
Smash Daddy is a food truck gem in Bell’s Corners that consistently delivers high-quality smash burgers and fries. The setup is casual, but the food feels thoughtfully crafted. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or looking for one of the better burger experiences in Ottawa’s west end, this place hits the mark.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit offers a very casual, cafeteria-style dining experience in Barrhaven, with a menu focused on classic American BBQ meats and sides. You order at the counter, grab a tray, and take a seat—nothing fancy, just straightforward BBQ.
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.
The Merry Dairy has become one of Ottawa’s most beloved ice cream shops. It’s a very popular spot that’s well-known across the city, and for good reason. Their ice cream is consistently rich, creamy, and flavourful, with a texture that manages to be indulgent without ever feeling too heavy. Add in their crisp, house-made waffle cones, and you’ve got one of the best places for a summer treat in Ottawa.
Le Foubrac is a casual burger joint with a laid-back atmosphere. The space itself is unassuming, and unless you already know it’s there, you might not necessarily think to stop in. It’s the type of restaurant you go to when you’re already in the neighbourhood rather than somewhere you’d make a dedicated trip for.
Margarita’s Latin Fusion is located on Bank Street, right in Ottawa’s Glebe area. It’s the kind of place you could easily walk by without giving much thought to, but once inside, the setting is quite nice. The décor is warm, colourful, and inviting, with a mix of Latin-inspired touches that add charm without feeling overdone.
Pur and Simple has quickly become one of Ottawa’s go-to brunch chains, and with multiple locations across town, it’s built a strong reputation for its bright atmosphere and wide-ranging breakfast and brunch menu. The Barrhaven location, in particular, is always busy. On my most recent visit, there was about a one-hour wait just to get seated, and the entire dining experience ended up taking close to two hours.