Exploring the City’s Exciting Culinary Scene Through the Most Delicious Food Tours in Ottawa
Deeply rooted in culture, cuisine has always had a special place in my heart as a traveler. I’d wager a few cookies and a big bowl of poutine that you feel the same way too!
Even though I know the city like the back of my hand, I like joining activities that make me feel like a traveler. I make sure not to let go of this sense of wonder—it’s what keeps me head over heels for Ottawa!
After munching my way through countless food tours in town, I’ve cooked up a mouthwatering list of the absolute best ones to try. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on these tasty adventures!
1. Escape Bicycle Tours
Website: https://escapebicycletours.ca/
Address: 65 Sparks St
Contact details: +1 613-608-7407
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 6 PM
Ah, a food tour with an exciting twist! Escape Bicycle Tours offers a delicious culinary journey while pedaling through the city’s prime destinations.
Lasting for three hours, this activity doesn’t require you to be a cycling genius. All you need is the ability to balance on a bike (and to eat like a king), and you’re good to go.
You can expect to indulge in tasty eateries, food stalls, and markets in locations such as Old Ottawa East and Centretown, with a few scenic stops in between.
This tour is in partnership with C’est Bon which also offers other interesting food tours of their own. More on this below.
2. C’est Bon Ottawa
Website: https://cestbonottawa.ca/food-tours/
Address: 200 Dalhousie St
Contact details: +1 613-722-8687
C’est Bon offers a thrilling assortment of day and night tours, all focusing on letting the participants discover the rich world of Ottawa’s culinary scene.
Here are my top recommendations:
Chocolate Lover’s Tour
As you can tell from the name, this tour is made specifically for those with a sweet tooth looking to dive headfirst into the city’s decadent treats.
As the saying goes, there’s always room for dessert!
Available only on the weekends at 2 pm, this 2-hour tour will take you on a journey through ByWard Market’s sweetest spots.
The tour is also inclusive of 5 free chocolate samples, making it a must for any chocolate lover.
Taste of Lowertown
Experience the hip and vibrant Lowertown through the Taste of Lowertown tour, offering under-the-radar finds from the neighborhood.
Unlike the Chocolate Lover’s Tour, this one is made up of mostly savory dishes with one sweet delight, perfect for those who crave a variety of flavors.
The best part? They can even accommodate those with dietary restrictions and preferences, though it’s best to inform them beforehand.
Best of SoPa
Best of SoPa tour takes its hungry guests to the South of Parliament District where they can find an eclectic array of irresistible dining experiences.
The tour also comes with a 3-course of high-end cuisine as well as other elevated eats that are sure to impress.
You’ll also have the chance to immerse yourself in the charming neighborhood through the expert guides offering local insights and fascinating stories.
3. Comedy Food Tours
Website: https://www.comedyfoodtours.com/
Comedy Food Tours invites hungry explorers on a delicious food trip while having a laugh with a hilarious comedian as your guide.
It puts a comedic twist on your usual food tours, which is why it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience for all.
I personally felt like I enjoyed it more because the combination of laughter and food is an underrated pair that should be experienced more often.
4. Trip Shepherd
Website: https://www.tripshepherd.com/trip-shepperd
Contact details: +1 888-961-6584
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 4 PM
Trip Shepherd’s ByWard Market Food Tour is a must-try especially if you want to immerse yourself in Ottawa’s bustling hub for delicious eateries and pubs.
The tour comes with four different dishes from various spots, ensuring that you get the most out of your adventure.
And let me tell you about the ByWard Market, you really haven’t seen all the action in the city without stepping foot in this neighborhood that offers a lot of seriously delicious dishes.
Aside from trying the local food, you’ll also have the chance to chat with the local vendors and hear all about them kick-starting their businesses.
Lasting for a solid 2 hours and 30 minutes, you’ll really get the best bang for your buck.
5. Brew Donkey Tours
Website: https://www.brewdonkey.ca
Address: 150 Elgin St
Contact details: +1 613-864-3659
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – closed
- Friday – 4 PM to 9 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 11 AM to 6 PM
Brew Donkey Tours offers a plethora of thrilling adventures that are all about exploring the local brewery scene.
Below are my top 2 picks:
Rideau Rally Tour
Rideau Rally Tour takes you to five different breweries, each offering its own unique brews and experience.
By the end of it, you’re practically a local brew expert, and who knows, you might even be ready to become one of the tour guides yourself!
My favorite part is that lunch and dessert are already included in the tour, ensuring that you can fully enjoy the day without worrying about finding food along the way. And did I mention they’re delicious as well?
City Beers Express Tour
If you want to experience the best of the best, the City Beers Express Tour is all about exploring three award-winning breweries in the city.
This tour includes 3 to 4 samples at each location. However, if you find something you particularly enjoy, you can always purchase an additional glass at an extra cost.