Our community picks for the best lunch spots and casual eats in Ottawa, Ontario — independent, family-run and locally-loved places, ranked by rating and community feedback. Each spot links to its full profile with hours, menu highlights and vibe.
Ottawa · 4.8/5 (48 reviews)
DeliKat Café is a welcoming spot in Ottawa serving coffee and light fare. Enjoy a selection of beverages and baked goods in a comfortable setting. It's a suitable place for a casual meet-up or a quiet moment.
Known for: coffee and light fare, including beverages and baked goods.
Ottawa · 4.8/5 (75 reviews) · indian
Bina & Bros. offers a welcoming dining experience in Ottawa, focusing on delicious food in a comfortable setting. It's a great spot for a casual meal with friends or a low-key evening out, providing a pleasant…
Known for: delicious Indian food in a comfortable setting
Ottawa · 4.8/5 (295 reviews) · fusion, greek
Modern Middle Eastern cafe and restaurant in the heart of Ottawa's historic ByWard Market. Upscale dining experience with bespoke cocktails, a curated wine list, and delicious flavours from the Eastern Mediterranean.
Known for: upscale dining with bespoke cocktails and Eastern Mediterranean flavors.
Ottawa · 4.8/5 (674 reviews) · american
Sharpfle Waffle offers a delightful take on sweet and savory waffles in Ottawa. Their menu features creative toppings and fresh ingredients, making it a satisfying option for breakfast, lunch, or a treat. The…
Known for: sweet and savory waffles with creative toppings.
Ottawa · 4.7/5 (254 reviews)
This Ottawa cafe offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for enjoying a warm beverage and a light bite. It's a comfortable spot to catch up with friends or simply unwind with a book. They serve a selection of coffee,…
Known for: Coffee, sandwiches, spirits, and beer with locally made goods and daily happy hour
Ottawa · 4.7/5 (189 reviews) · african
Delina's Restaurant and Bar offers a taste of Eritrean cuisine in Ottawa. The menu features traditional dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. It's a welcoming spot for a casual meal with friends or family,…
Known for: traditional Eritrean cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients in a comfortable setting.
Ottawa · 4.6/5 (524 reviews) · american
Corner Peach is a charming restaurant located in Ottawa focused on serving delicious food in a welcoming atmosphere. It offers a thoughtful menu with emphasis on quality ingredients. The dining space provides a…
Known for: Simple, seasonal dishes and hip wine in a small bistro
Ottawa · 4.6/5 (496 reviews) · african
Classic Ethiopian cuisine & lunch buffet served in a cozy dining room with delivery & take-out.
Known for: classic Ethiopian cuisine and a lunch buffet
Ottawa · 4.2/5 (6816 reviews) · american
Zak's Diner offers a classic diner experience with a focus on comfort food. The menu features a variety of burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes, making it a suitable spot for a casual meal. It's a straightforward…
Known for: All-day breakfast, iconic burgers, and homemade pies since 1986
We rank the best lunch spots and casual eats in Ottawa by rating and community feedback, favouring independent and family-run spots — 9 are listed on this page.
See our late-night guide at https://cupsandbites.com/ottawa/open-late for spots in Ottawa open past 10 p.m., with today's hours on every profile.
Spots that take reservations show a "Reserve a table" button on their profile; others show "Call to book" or are walk-in.
More in Ottawa: Restaurants & Cafés in Ottawa · Cafés in Ottawa · Bars in Ottawa · Pubs in Ottawa · Brunch Spots in Ottawa · Breakfast Spots in Ottawa · Dinner Restaurants in Ottawa · Bakeries in Ottawa · Coffee Shops in Ottawa · Dessert Spots in Ottawa · Open late in Ottawa