The 6 Best African Restaurants in Ottawa for Authentic Flavor Experiences!
I once went on a date who tried impressing me with their knowledge of African food, only to realize they’d bitten more than they could chew!
I mean, they don’t even know the difference between jollof rice and fried rice, but neither did I – though I’d never fake it like I’m some kind of culinary guru.
The evening was filled with awkward moments and spicy surprises, but it did spark a realization that a deep dive into Ottawa’s best African restaurants was definitely in order. Thus began my quest to find the city’s top spots!
At least something good came from the date – and no, I’m not talking about the food fight over jollof rice versus fried rice. I’m referring to my mouth-watering culinary adventure that followed, which you’ll hear all about below!
1. Suya Palace
Media credit: suyapalace
Website: https://suyapalace.com/
Address: 1066 Somerset St W
Contact details: +1 613-728-8646
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Saturday – 11 AM to 10:30 PM
- Sunday – 12:30 PM to 8 PM
Located in the neighborhood of charming Little Italy, Suya Palace is a hidden gem that you can’t miss if you’re in the area. This road less traveled offers exciting cuisine from West Africa, most of which is grilled and BBQ.
The suya beef is a must-try – a flavorful dish that features meat jam-packed with flavors, as it’s marinated for 24 hours with a mix of savory spices.
Ordering the beef suya combo is much recommended, especially if you want your plate to come with coleslaw, plantain, jollof rice, water, or your choice of canned drink.
2. African Kitchen
Media credit: africankitchenltd
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ps8rY2fTikuzjqBe9
Address: 81 Holland Ave
Contact details: +1 613-722-4800
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 2 PM to 9 PM
Unbeknownst to many locals, African Kitchen hides in the midst of chic cafes and the buzzing art scene of Hintonburg. But good news, folks – there’s no need to miss out on their offerings because I’m about to tell you the gems that await you here.
Its unassuming storefront, coupled with the modest and laid-back ambiance of the interior, makes it easy to undermine. However, as soon as you take a bite of the jollof rice with chicken combo, be prepared to have your world changed!
The flavors are a harmonious blend of rich, smoky tomato sauce and perfectly seasoned chicken, with a hint of spice that lingers just long enough to leave you craving more. Needless to say, you can expect a delightful experience at African Kitchen.
3. Detola’s Kitchen
Media credit: detolaskitchen
Website: https://www.detolaskitchen.com/
Address: 2544 Bank St
Contact details: +1 613-700-5481
Operating hours:
- Sunday and Monday – closed
- Tuesday & Thursday – 1 PM to 7 PM
- Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday – 1 PM to 8 PM
Despite being criminally underrated, Detola’s Kitchen remains a hot spot that consistently garners sparkling reviews from folks who have tried their exceptional dishes.
After The Best in Ottawa team got to try it ourselves, the verdict is in! The people weren’t kidding when they said it was one of the best African restaurants they’ve discovered in the city.
The peppered gizzard is all the rage, especially for fans of dishes with a hell of a fiery kick. Order it with a side of jollof rice for heavenly perfection.
If spicy flavors aren’t your cup of tea, nonso’s wrap is what I’d recommend. Nestled in the delicious embrace of the tortilla are flavorful ingredients such as suya meat, lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, drizzled in sauce.
Don’t forget to try out their small plates too. The sausage roll and samosa are a guaranteed hit!
4. Alhuda Restaurant
Media credit: alhudarestaurants
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GMHMdRmxiVSkJFV39
Address: 1644 Bank St
Contact details: +1 613-731-6000
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 12:30 PM to 8 PM
Alhuda Restaurant is one of the best-kept secrets of Ottawa when it comes to East African cuisine. The sambusa, also known as samosa, is a popular appetizer among regulars for its spicy hints and perfectly crispy exterior.
In fact, I’d consider it one of the best samosa I’ve tried in the city!
Another crowd favorite is the rice & lamb because of its tender, flavorful meat, aromatic spices, and perfect ratio.
5. Golden BBQ Grill
Media credit: golden_bbq_grill
Website: https://bbqgoldengrill.ca/
Address: 1060 St. Laurent Blvd
Contact details: +1 613-842-0303
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 1 AM
Golden BBQ Grill is a laid-back eatery with a mom-and-pop shop vibe. The regulars here are usually from the surrounding neighborhood or those who have just finished shopping at the plethora of stores across the street.
The tilapia is my go-to choice whenever I’m looking for a nourishing meal packed with flavorful sauces.
On the other hand, if I’m in the mood for something indulgent, satisfying, and extremely filling, my order will look like this: samosas, beef tongue brochette, pepesoup, and to top it all off, joloff rice.
Each dish complements the others perfectly, creating a feast that’s rich in diverse flavors and textures – ideal for when I’m craving a culinary adventure.
6. D’Afrique Restaurant & Bar
Media credit: gluttonforgrowth
Website: https://www.dafriqueethiopianfood.ca/
Address: 349 Dalhousie St
Contact details: +1 613-789-2222
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 3 PM to 10 PM
- Friday – 1 PM to 2 AM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 2 AM
Found in Ottawa’s popular entertainment district, D’Afrique Restaurant & Bar is one of the must-try restaurants in the ByWard Market.
The meat samosa is hands down one of the best dishes you’ll ever try at D’Afrique for breakfast. It comes with jalapeno poppers, so expect a slightly spicy kick!
And here’s some good news for all our vegetarian readers – there’s an array of delicious entrée options, with the shiro, a dish with chickpeas and berbere stew, being the highlight out of the bunch.