5 Best Gastro Pubs in Ottawa for Elevated Eats and Craft Cocktails
As someone who has been around Ottawa’s vibrant culinary scene, I will always find gastro pubs irresistible. It’s the perfect blend of casual comfort and gourmet dining that will always keep me coming back for more.
In Ottawa, gastro pubs are as bountiful as Tim Hortons, but not all are made equal. With so many options to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start.
That’s why I’ve put together this guide to the best gastro pubs in Ottawa, so you can discover where to enjoy delicious food, great drinks, and a laid-back vibe.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these spots are sure to impress!
The Wellington Gastropub
— Media credit: yumyumyow
Website: https://www.thewellingtongastropub.com/
Location: 1325 Wellington St. West
Phone: +16137291315
Opening hours:
Lunch and Brunch Wed-Sat 11 am to 2 pm
In-Between Wed-Sat 2 pm to 4 pm
Dinner Tue-Sat from 5 pm
The Wellington Gastropub is an upscale yet cozy spot where you can indulge in a leisurely meal. It’s also a great place to unwind after an exhausting workday because they serve barrel-aged cocktails, beer, and other house brews.
Their menu showcases traditional pub fare and modern culinary creations. A standout choice is the Beef Short Rib Nest, which has braised short ribs and pickled mushrooms sitting in perfectly seasoned potatoes shaped into a bowl.
To complement their dishes, they serve barrel-aged cocktails, craft beers, and other unique brews.
Pro Tip:
Even on the weekdays, The Wellington can be packed for brunch. Always book a table in advance, and set your reservation to an earlier hour so you won’t miss out on your favorite dishes.
The Rowan
— Media credit: therowanottawa
Website: http://www.therowan.ca/
Location: 915 Bank Street
Phone: +16137809292
Opening hours:
Mon, Wed-Fri 11:30 am to 2 pm, 5 pm to 9 pm
Sat and Sun 10 am to 2 pm, 5 pm to 9 pm
The Rowan is a chic and cozy gastro pub serving delicious dishes, artfully presented using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Much like Ottawa’s seasons, their menu is ever-changing, always surprising and delighting us with their creative offerings.
From their soups to their salads, their dishes are a feast for the eyes, while the hearty portions ensure that each meal is as filling as it is flavorful.
No matter the season, you can always count on them to serve good liquor, ranging from craft cocktails to sparkling white wines.
Pro Tip:
For a party of four, you can book a table online. If there are more of you, give them a call.
The Albion Rooms
— Media credit: thealbionrooms
Website: https://thealbionrooms.com/
Location: 33 Nicholas Street
Phone: +16137604771
Opening hours:
Lunch Wed-Fri 11 am to 2 pm
Dinner Daily 5 pm to 10 pm
Brunch Sat-Sun 11:30 am to 2 pm
Known for its vibrant atmosphere and unwavering commitment to supporting local producers, The Albion Rooms is a true gem in our culinary scene.
Each plate is not just thoughtfully prepared but also beautifully presented to please the most discerning palates. Whether you’re enjoying expertly crafted charcuterie boards or a hearty main course, every dish offers a true taste of Ottawa.
What we like the most is their old-world hospitality. No matter the occasion, you can expect service to be exceptional.
Pro Tip:
Every day from 2 pm to 5 pm is happy hour at The Albion Rooms. Offering small plates and delicious cocktails at a great value, it’s a great pre-dinner treat.
Prohibition Public House
— Media credit: prohibitionhouse
Website: http://www.prohibitionhouse.com/
Location: 337 Somerset Street West
Phone: +16135652704
Opening hours:
Mon-Thu 5 pm to late
Fri 5 pm to 2 am
Sat 11 am to 2 am
Sun 11 am to late
Centretown’s Prohibition Public House is a New York-style gastro pub, inspired by the speakeasies of the 20s. It is an immersive experience, where everything from the ambiance to the cocktails transports you to a different era.
Serving farm-to-table dishes, their contemporary take on Canadian pub fare and cocktails are refreshing, satisfying, and full of flavor. They appeal to any palate.
Although they are open 7 days a week, they only offer brunch on the weekends. The brunch menu takes a little bit of time to serve as everything is made in-house, so remember to get yourself a drink while you wait.
Pro Tip:
During warmer months, Prohibition Public House opens its patio for dining. On your reservation, you can book a table outside under the “special requests” column.
Bar Lupulus
— Media credit: bar_lupulus
Website: https://barlupulus.ca/
Location: 1242 Wellington Street West
Phone: +16137594677
Opening hours: Sun-Thu 5 pm to 10:30 pm, Fri-Sat 5 pm to 11:30 pm
Bar Lupulus stands out for its playful approach to fermented cuisine and drinks. From marinated olives to brined, thinly sliced sirloin, its menu is creative and deeply satisfying.
Their drink selection is equally noteworthy. Featuring a carefully curated array of beers, wines, and cocktails, they pair well with their flavorful dishes.
While they don’t offer brunch, Bar Lupulus is open daily for dinner and drinks, providing the perfect evening retreat.
Pro Tip:
You can order their refreshing drinks from the Bar Lupulus website. From ciders and meads to wine and beer, they offer a wide range of choices that you can enjoy from the comfort of your home.