The 10 Best Chinese Restaurants in Ottawa for Wok-tastic Flavors to Delight Your Taste Buds
Ever find yourself dreaming of steaming hot dumplings or the perfect stir-fry that instantly whisks you away to the heart of Beijing? If you’re nodding along, you’re not alone.
However, exploring the city’s culinary landscape can be overwhelming, especially when craving a meal that satisfies your every desire.
But the good news is we’ve done the legwork for you. After countless taste tests and chopstick maneuvers, we’ve curated a list of the top Chinese restaurants in Ottawa.
So, whether you’re in the mood for spicy Szechuan or delicate dim sum, your next meal is just a scroll away. Let’s dive in!
1. Jadeland
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Website: http://www.jadeland.com/
Location: 625 Somerset St W
Contact Details: (613) 233-0204
Business Hours:
- Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
Right in the heart of Ottawa’s Chinatown, Jadeland brings the rich flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine with a touch of authenticity that stands out.
Known for its cozy, unpretentious atmosphere, Jadeland is the go-to spot for anyone seeking a genuine taste of China.
What sets Jadeland apart is its dedication to preserving time-honored recipes, ensuring that every dish reflects the true essence of Chinese culinary heritage.
A standout dish here is their General Tso’s Chicken. While this might be a familiar favorite, Jadeland’s version, with its perfectly crispy texture and balanced sweet-spicy sauce, is a game changer.
But if you’re looking to try something a bit more unique, their BBQ Duck is an absolute must. Tender, flavorful, and perfectly roasted, it’s a dish that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more.
Pro tip:
If you’re dining with a group, opt for the family-style sharing plates. It’s the best way to sample a variety of dishes, and you’ll get to experience more of Jadeland’s extensive menu.
2. Mekong
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Website: https://www.mekongottawa.ca/
Location: 637 Somerset St W
Contact Details: (613) 237-7717
Business Hours:
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Monday: 3:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Mekong is a beloved gem in Ottawa that effortlessly blends a cozy atmosphere with a menu brimming with flavorful Asian cuisine.
This spot has been a local favorite for years, offering a wide array of dishes that make it hard to choose just one.
For those who appreciate a good soup, the Pork Wonton Soup is a standout. This dish features delicate wontons stuffed with savory pork, floating in a flavorful broth that’s both comforting and satisfying.
But if you’re in the mood for something special, try the Peking Duck 3 Courses. It’s a feast of crispy duck skin with pancakes, stir-fried duck with vegetables, and a rich duck broth soup.
And it’s not just the food that draws diners in. Mekong offers hearty portions at prices that are easy on the wallet, making it a go-to spot for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Pro tip:
When ordering the Peking Duck 3 Courses, call 3 days ahead to reserve it. It’s a popular choice, and this ensures you won’t miss out on this delicious experience.
3. Royal Treasure
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Website: https://royaltreasure.ca/
Location: 774 Somerset St. W
Contact Details: (613) 237-8827
Business Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday to Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Royal Treasure, situated in the heart of Ottawa’s lively downtown area, has been a beloved culinary destination for over three decades.
Since its establishment in 1993, this family-run restaurant has proudly served the rich, flavorful dishes of Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine, bringing the authentic tastes of China to the nation’s capital.
As you explore the menu, start with crispy Wonton Wrappers, offering a crunch with a savory filling, or savor the Mu Shu Wrap Platter, where tender meats and vegetables are wrapped in delicate pancakes.
And for those seeking something truly special, the menu also features the earthy fiery Szechuan Spicy Prawns, delivering bold, authentic flavors that highlight the depth of Chinese culinary tradition.
Pro tip:
For an authentic experience at Royal Treasure, ask for your dishes to be prepared with traditional spice levels, especially when ordering Szechuan specialties.
4. Mandarin Restaurant
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Website: https://www.mandarinrestaurant.com/
Location: 150 Katimavik Rd
Contact Details: (613) 228-2200
Business Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Mandarin Restaurant is more than just a place to eat, it’s a celebration of food, family, and fun.
With over 100 mouth-watering dishes ranging from traditional Chinese favorites to modern fusion creations, there’s something to delight every palate.
One of the standout dishes at Mandarin Restaurant is their crispy spring rolls, offering a perfect blend of textures and flavors that set the tone for the rest of your meal.
For seafood lovers, the Tai Dop Voy is a must-try, featuring a medley of seafood and vegetables stir-fried to perfection, delivering a harmonious mix of tastes and textures that make every bite truly satisfying.
As you savor these culinary delights, the warm and inviting atmosphere at Mandarin ties everything together, making it an ideal spot for both casual family dinners and special occasions.
Pro tip:
Arrive early for the buffet, especially on weekends and holidays, to beat the crowd and enjoy the freshest dishes as they’re brought out.
5. Ben Ben Restaurant
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Website: http://www.benbenrestaurant.com/
Location: 697 Somerset St W
Contact Details: (613)238-5022
Business Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Ben Ben Restaurant warmly invites you to experience the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine, inspired by the vibrant streets of Hong Kong and comforting family traditions.
Reflecting the founders’ dedication, this dining destination is a testament to their passion for bringing the authentic tastes of their homeland to the heart of the city.
When it comes to their menu, the Golden Barbeque Duck is a must-try, offering tender, marinated duck with crispy, golden skin and juicy, succulent meat.
Another culinary delight is the Scallops in Bird’s Nest, a visually stunning and flavorful dish that highlights the delicate taste of fresh scallops.
Throughout your visit, you can enjoy all of these dishes in a comfortable setting, served by warm and welcoming staff.
Pro tip:
For dinner with two or more guests, explore Ben Ben Restaurant’s dinner specials for curated dishes that everyone will love.
6. Yang Sheng Chinese Restaurant
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Website: https://yangshengrestaurant.com/home
Location: 662 Somerset St W
Contact Details: (613) 235-5794
Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM daily
Yang Sheng Chinese Restaurant is a cherished culinary gem located at the center of Ottawa’s dynamic cityscape.
For over 20 years, Yang Sheng has been at the forefront of Oriental cuisine in the region, blending time-honored traditions with modern culinary innovations.
One dish that truly stands out at Yang Sheng is their steamed BBQ pork bun. Its soft, fluffy bun encases a savory and sweet BBQ pork filling that bursts with flavor in every bite.
And if you love a touch of spice, their Beef with XO Sauce is sure to delight your taste buds. It features tender slices of beef cooked to perfection in our house-made XO sauce.
Pro tip:
If you’re visiting Yang Sheng during peak hours, especially on weekends, be sure to make a reservation or order ahead online to skip the wait.
7. Oriental House Restaurant
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Website: https://www.orientalhouse.ca/
Location: 266 Elgin St
Contact Details: (613) 563-2694
Business Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Oriental House Restaurant is a culinary haven that offers an exceptional experience, celebrating the rich flavors of authentic Asian cuisine.
What really sets Oriental House apart is the commitment to quality. They use only the freshest ingredients in every dish, making sure each bite is as flavorful and satisfying as the last.
With a diverse menu that has something for everyone, you can dig into everything from savory stir-fries and flavorful sushi rolls to delectable dim sum and more.
When it comes to standout dishes, you can’t go wrong with the Butterfly Shrimp with Red Sauce, Almond Shrimp Ding, and Imperial Chicken. Each dish blends flavors and textures that highlight Asian cooking.
Pro tip:
Consider trying the lunch specials, which often offer great value and a chance to sample a variety of dishes at a lower price.
8. Peking Duck
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Website: https://pekingduck.ca/en/home-en/
Location: 90 George St
Contact Details: (613) 860-0888
Business Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Peking Duck’s origins trace back to 1864 when QJD, a revered Chinese restaurant chain, was established.
For 153 years, QJD has perfected the art of roast duck, earning acclaim from heads of state, government officials, and food lovers worldwide.
But besides this, be sure to check out their chef’s recommendations that showcase culinary mastery, including the steamed fish head with chopped pepper and crispy prawns with honey sauce.
Plus, the dedicated staff and talented chefs work tirelessly to ensure that every dining experience reflects their passion and commitment to excellence.
Pro tip:
Pair your dishes with thoughtfully selected beverages to enhance the dining experience. Consider choosing wine, tea, or a creative mocktail that compliments the meal.
9. Yimin Dim Sum House
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Website: https://yimindimsumottawa.com/
Location: 662 Somerset St W
Contact Details: (613) 238-8828
Business Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:PM daily
Yimin Dim Sum House offers a vibrant atmosphere where authentic Chinese culinary tradition thrives, featuring a delightful blend of Cantonese, Sichuan, and northern Chinese flavors.
They have a wide array of dim sum, including delicate dumplings and flavorful buns, all made with care and attention to detail.
Among this diverse selection, you’ll find classic pork dumplings paired with creative options like shrimp and scallion dumplings, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every taste and preference.
But what really makes this place special is the authenticity of every dish, crafted with traditional techniques and top-notch ingredients that showcase real Chinese cooking.
And to take your meal to the next level, pairing dim sum with traditional Chinese teas is a must! Oolong or jasmine tea pairs perfectly with the flavors of your meal.
Pro tip:
Keep an eye out for seasonal dishes or specials that may not be on the regular menu. These unique offerings can provide a chance to taste something new and exciting.
10. Ha’s Dim Sum Noodle House
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Website: https://dimsumnoodlehouse.com/
Location: 870 Somerset St W
Contact Details: (613) 680-1688
Business Hours:
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday to Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Ha’s Dim Sum Noodle House offers a delightful culinary experience that stands out in the local food scene.
Their menu features an extensive selection of dim sum, showcasing beloved favorites like shrimp dumplings, pork shiu mai, and a unique twist with black pepper beef shiu mai.
What makes their dishes special is the quality you can taste in every bite, like the shrimp dim sum made with whole shrimp instead of processed ones, giving it an unbeatable flavor.
What’s even better is that the inviting atmosphere at Ha’s Dim Sum Noodle House makes it the perfect spot for both casual hangouts and special get-togethers.
Pro tip:
Enhance the flavor of your dim sum by trying various dipping sauces. Soy sauce, chili oil, and vinegar can add different dimensions to the dishes and cater to individual taste preferences.