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Ottawa's Most Romantic Restaurants
The countdown is on! Only 10 more days until Valentine’s Day! Have you put much thought into where you would like to bring your sweetheart for a fun date night? Maybe you would rather have a night in at home, and that’s okay! Check out our list of fun things to do at home that will certainly up your game for an enjoyable evening.
If going out is more your style, then this article is for you! We have compiled a list of Ottawa’s most romantic restaurants because you deserve to enjoy a delicious evening on the town!
Restaurant e18hteen
18 York Street, Ottawa
Restaurant e18hteen features a delicious menu in a highly romantic setting. This contemporary fine dining restaurant has been well established since 2001. e18hteen strives for excellence, dedication to the culinary arts, and attentive service. Their exceptional cuisine is traditional French with seasonal Canadian influences and includes an extensive wine selection. The building was constructed in 1867 and combines old-world charm with modern sophistication and style. e18hteen is known for honouring Canadian farmers, as well as the land and the culture of all provinces. Their seasonal menus focus on quality ingredients and highlight exquisite natural flavours.
Fairouz
15 Clarence Street, Ottawa
Fairouz Cafe is a unique Middle Eastern cafe and restaurant located in the heart of the historic Byward Market. Here, you can enjoy a daily selection of fast and fresh meals in the warm and inviting cafe. If you would rather, you can take home your favourite meals, sweets, treats and wines. In the evenings the cafe is transformed into an upscale dining experience. Enjoy delicious flavours from across the Middle East coupled with bespoke cocktails, as well as a uniquely curated wine list. The newly renovated space is modern and romantic offering the perfect ambiance for a Valentine’s Day meal!
Gezellig
337 Richmond Road, Ottawa
Pronounced “gah-zell-ig”, this Dutch adjective means “convivial, cosy and nice atmosphere”. It also means “belonging, general togetherness, or time spent with loved ones”. This fine dining experience is brought to you by Stephen Beckta (owner and operator of Beckta, Play and Gezellig). And Clay Cardillo (managing partner for Beckta, Play and Gezellig). They, along with their team, welcome you to the heart of Westboro Village. Here, you will enjoy great neighbourhood dining in a lofty yet intimate, modernized 1950’s bank building. Offering extraordinary food & wine with fun, value and warm hospitality.
Sidedoor Contemporary Kitchen & Bar
18B York Sreet, Ottawa
Located literally at the side door entrance of Restaurant e18hteen, you will find Sidedoor. With a delicious menu inspired by Southeast Asia, Sidedoor offers guests a delightful family-style dining experience. You can enjoy food that comes continuously throughout your meal and is placed at the centre of the table for all to share. With each new dish, you will be are transported to the typical food stalls or street markets of Vietnam or Thailand. You can enjoy fresh seasonal produce, along with ocean-wise seafood. All this coupled with regional fish sauces, fresh ground curries and exotic spices tantalize each and every dish. Enjoy your meal in the solarium under the stars for a romantic and unique atmosphere.
The Rabbit Hole
208 Sparks Street, Ottawa
Housed in a historic 122-year-old building in the heart of downtown. The Rabbit Hole proudly serves up the city’s most creative cocktails in an uber-modern yet historical venue. Upstairs, you can enjoy a hand-crafted libation from one of the talented mixologists, coupled with fresh oysters served on the half-shell. Things get romantic as you head downstairs for an intimate dining experience. Enjoy your meal alongside the original exposed stone walls providing a magical backdrop to the iconic space. Contemplate the existential circumstances of life or simply dine with your sweetheart in one of the many cozy booths.
Moscow Tea Room
527 Sussex Drive, Ottawa
Moscow Tea Room is located in the heart of the ByWard Market in a magnificent courtyard on Sussex Drive. The Tea Room has hosted events with Ambassadors, Federal and Provincial Ministers, as well as the Mayor. Moscow Tea Room is always at the centre of the city cultural calendar. This go-to location is perfect for an after-work cocktail, a romantic date night, or a late-night drink amongst friends. Featuring award-winning teas, tapas, charcuterie & cheeses, vodka, craft cocktails, champagne & caviar all within a lavish atmosphere coupled with art and opulence.
Riviera
62 Sparks Street, Ottawa
Riviera offers a fresh, contemporary style located in the heart of downtown Ottawa on the iconic Sparks Street. With a clearly curated menu featuring Canadian seafood and steaks paired alongside rare and exciting spirits and cocktails. The atmosphere is sleek and sophisticated in the renovated interior of a former bank building. With spectacular service, you can expect to be waited on hand and foot. If you are looking for the perfect romantic date night, the Riviera is just what the doctor ordered!
The Whalesbone
231 Elgin Street, Ottawa
The Whalesbone is a collection of three unique licensed establishments, throughout the city. One location offers a catering company and just short of 100 passionate professionals who provide an exceptional dining experience. The oyster house on Elgin Street features 100% sustainable seafood fare with freshly plucked oysters, ready to shuck. If you are a fan of fresh seafood, prepare to be delighted at The Whalesbone!
Beckta Dining & Wine
150 Elgin Street, Ottawa
Beckta Dining & Wine resides in the beautifully restored Grant House heritage building on Elgin Street. This upscale venue provides a critically-acclaimed seasonal Canadian menu to enjoy. There is also a separate wine bar with an exceptional selection of fine wines. The traditional dining room offers a romantic atmosphere to enjoy a delicious meal from the a-la-carte menu. Or, you can enjoy a five-course, interactive chef’s tasting menu with optional wine pairing for the most elaborate experience. The wine bar features a more casual dining space. However, you can order the same great dinner menus as well as an extensive list of wines and cocktails.
In conclusion, Ottawa has an abundance of fabulous, upscale dining experiences to share with your significant other. We hope that you enjoy your Valentines Day whether you decide to indulge in one of these great restaurants or not. If you are just looking for a fun and exciting evening out with your sweetheart, friends or family, be sure to check out one of these exceptional restaurants, you won’t be disappointed!
Looking to extend your stay downtown Ottawa and enjoy a luxurious weekend getaway?
Check out our article on Ottawa’s most luxurious hotel stays.
