11 Of the prettiest Ottawa patios to dine on this summer
4 Minute Read
Summer is in full swing, and what better way to soak up some sun than by enjoying one of Ottawa’s most picturesque patios?
Amp up your next outdoor meal by dining in a hidden courtyard, elevated on a rooftop bar or admiring the glistening water. Here are eleven of the must-visit Ottawa patios.
Umbrella Bar
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Neighbourhood: The Glebe
Sip on a tropical cocktail in this urban oasis overlooking Dow's Lake. The spacious patio has bistro-style tables under a veranda that twinkles once the sun goes down. Watch paddlers and cyclists enjoy the sun as you indulge in an epic fried chicken sandwich or fish tacos.
La Terrasse
Neighbourhood: Downtown Rideau One of the best patio views in Ottawa is from this expansive terrace at Ottawa's castle, the Fairmont Château Laurier. You can feel like royalty as you snack on a charcuterie board or seafood platter, admiring the Rideau Canal locks and the Ottawa River and Parliament buildings in the distance. If you're a fan of Caesars, you must try the massive Surf and Turf Caesar that serves four guests.
The Porch on Preston
Neighbourhood: Little Italy A newer patio in the city, you can pair a beer with Californian-inspired street eats above the iconic restaurant The Prescott. This rooftop spot is full of bright yellow umbrellas and chairs for the ultimate summer vibes, and you can enjoy watching the comings and goings of Preston Street as you dine.
Banditos
Neighbourhood: The Glebe Pretend you're on a tropical vacation as you sip on margaritas and palomas on this spacious deck full of umbrellas. You can even share an entire aquarium of Corona if you're hanging out with friends. Then, complete the beachy atmosphere with a table of tacos, nachos, guacamole and churros.
Mill Street Brew Pub
Neighbourhood: Downtown This historic stone mill is now a bustling restaurant and brewpub where you'll find craft beer and pub eats. Nestled on the bank of the Ottawa River, the front patio is an excellent place to relax, but the hidden courtyard patio is even better. You can dine outdoors as limestone walls surround you as you listen to the sound of rapids.
Rooftop Ottawa
Neighbourhood: Byward Market Experience panoramic views of the Byward Market from this towering rooftop patio. It's the ultimate dining space to soak up the sun above the hustle and bustle. Located above the restaurant Starling, the menu offers the same exotic cocktails and bites, including Placebos — their version of mocktails, so the DD can still join in on the fun.
Tavern on the Falls | Tavern at the Gallery
Neighbourhood: East of downtown | Near Byward Market You can dine while overlooking magical waterfalls or nestled in a courtyard garden as the first of the three seasonal patios, Tavern On The Hill, is closed due to construction. The two other picturesque spots offer similar cocktail menus, including a mojito and Aperol Spritz, and you'll find different casual eats at each. Indulge in gourmet hotdogs and tacos by the falls or pizzas and salad bowls by the art gallery.
The Whalesbone on Elgin
Neighbourhood: Downtown If you're a seafood lover or enjoy a casual pub-style eatery, check out The Whalesbone at any of their Ottawa locations. The Elgin Street restaurant has a hidden backyard patio for the ultimate cozy summer atmosphere. Grab freshly shucked oysters and a glass of wine surrounded by exposed brick walls and twinkly lights.
SIDEDOOR
Neighbourhood: Byward Market You'll feel like you've flown off to Europe on this courtyard-style patio that offers Asian-inspired street food. The menu features tapas plates, perfect for sharing and trying new dishes. This hidden outdoor dining area features exposed stone walls and cobblestone streets decorated with greenery and string lights so you can forget you're in the middle of the city and not dining overseas.
The Rabbit Hole
Neighbourhood: Downtown
The Rabbit Hole is housed in a historic stone building and serves pizza and small plates, plus it turns into more of a party scene on weekend evenings. You'll notice the quaint patio out front, but there is also a hidden rooftop bar with an island vibe, complete with glowing torches and its tropical bar.
Atari Garden
Neighbourhood: Byward Market
Tapas and cocktails await you on a rooftop garden patio. The chic atmosphere and garden theme flow inside out, and you can experience the buzz and lights of Ottawa's downtown from this elevated dining space. Pair a few sharing plates with house cocktails, a glass of wine or bottle service.
Don't forget to bring your CAA Membership
Starting at just $30 a year, CAA Members can save wherever they adventure. You can save on everything from dining out and filling up on fuel, to discounts on your car and travel insurance, as well as other benefits. You can view the list of 126,000 partner locations worldwide and compare Membership plans online.
