The 10 Best Indian Restaurants in Ottawa for Naan-Stop Satisfaction of Your Cravings
A friend of mine who just can’t get enough good food reached out, asking where to find the best Indian restaurants in the city.
Naturally, as someone who’s always up for a culinary quest, I jumped at the chance.
After all, who could resist diving into a bowl of rich curry or indulging in some fresh, warm naan?
I set off on a food-filled journey, exploring hidden gems, chatting with fellow food lovers, and tasting my way through Ottawa’s Indian cuisine.
Now, I’m ready to share the inside scoop on where you can find the top Indian restaurants in Ottawa.
Get ready to embark on a taste adventure that’s sure to leave you craving more.
1. East India Company Restaurants
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Website: https://www.eastindiaco.com/
Location: 210 Somerset Street West
Contact Details: (613) 567 4634
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Lunch), 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Dinner)
- Saturday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM (Lunch), 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Dinner)
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Lunch), 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Dinner)
For over 40 years, East India Company Restaurants has been a go-to spot for anyone craving authentic Indian flavors in Ottawa.
A family-run treasure, it blends rich tradition with a vibe that’s as warm and welcoming.
Now, diving into the good stuff, their butter chicken is a standout with creamy, savory goodness that’ll have you coming back for more.
And if you’re in the mood for a kick, the spicy vindaloo is your best friend, ready to set your taste buds on fire in the best way possible.
Plus, don’t even think about skipping the tandoori section. The marinated meats are cooked to perfection in a traditional clay oven.
Pro tip:
Visit during lunchtime for their buffet. It’s a perfect way to sample a bit of everything without having to choose just one dish.
2. Aroma Indian Cuisine
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Website: https://www.aromaindiancuisine.ca/
Location: 105 Shuttleworth Dr. Unit 3
Contact Details: (613) 713-3663
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Aroma Indian Cuisine has quickly become a go-to spot for anyone in Ottawa craving the vibrant flavors of India.
Nestled in the heart of the city, this charming restaurant is all about serving up authentic Indian cuisine with a modern twist.
Stepping inside, you’re immediately greeted by a cozy, laid-back atmosphere. It’s perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or a casual date night.
And for starters, their butter chicken is an absolute must-try. Rich, creamy, and spiced to perfection, it’s the kind of dish that makes you want to return again and again.
But if you’re feeling adventurous, the lamb rogan josh is another winner, bursting with aromatic spices that transport your taste buds straight to India.
Pro tip:
Complement your meal with a traditional lassi or a refreshing mango smoothie, each adding a delightful boost of flavor to your dining experience.
3. Masakali Indian Resto Bar
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Website: https://masakaliottawa.ca/
Location: 1111 Wellington Street West
Contact Details: (613) 792-9777
Business Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Masakali Indian Resto Bar is a culinary gem in Ottawa, offering a vibrant dining experience that brings a burst of India to your plate.
With locations in Stittsville and Wellington Street, this restaurant offers a diverse menu of authentic Indian dishes, including aromatic biryanis and flavorful vegetarian options like paneer tikka and dal makhani.
Behind the vibrant taste are their chefs who use a blend of traditional spices and fresh ingredients to create dishes that burst with seasoning.
Besides this, Masakali also features a full bar with a selection of craft beers, wines, and signature cocktails, perfectly complementing their spicy and savory dishes.
Pro tip:
For an extra kick, ask for your dish to be made “Desi Spicy” if you can handle the heat. The chefs at Masakali can dial up the spice level to give you an authentic taste of Indian street food.
4. Balista
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Website: https://balista.ca/
Location: 2150 Robertson Road UNIT 5
Contact Details: (613) 829-9996
Business Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
Balista is a vibrant pure vegetarian and vegan fusion restaurant that adds a fresh twist to Indian-inspired fast food in Canada.
Originally starting as a humble food van, they quickly grew into a beloved destination for those craving healthy, flavorful meals with an Indian flair.
Now with locations in Scarborough, Ottawa, and Brampton, they offer a diverse menu featuring innovative dishes like pink sauce pasta, spicy chipotle burgers, and jamun shots.
But what sets them apart is their dedication to catering to various dietary preferences, including Jain and Swaminarayan, ensuring a welcoming experience for all.
Pro tip:
Visit Balista during off-peak hours, like mid-afternoon or early evening, to avoid the lunch and dinner crowds and enjoy a more relaxed dining experience.
5. Yaari Kitchen and Bar
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Website: https://yaariottawa.ca/
Location: 108 Murray Street
Contact Details: (613) 695-3770
Business Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Yaari Kitchen and Bar reimagines Indian cuisine with a creative fusion of traditional spices and global influences, offering a truly unique dining experience.
Their butter chicken burger is a standout, where crispy fried chicken breast is drenched in rich butter chicken sauce and crowned with melted cheese, fusing Canadian comfort with a tasty Indian twist.
Another standout is the Pav Bhaji Bruschetta, which features toasted bread layered with a savory blend of spiced mashed vegetables.
These dishes are perfect for adventurous eaters looking to explore bold, new flavors.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss their happy hour for great deals on their signature cocktails, which pair perfectly with their fusion appetizers like the butter chicken burger.
6. Rang De Indian Cuisine
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Website: https://www.rangdeottawa.ca/
Location: 700 March Rd, Unit H
Contact Details: (613) 595-0777
Business Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Rang De Indian Cuisine is where India’s vibrant flavors meet a contemporary twist, making it more than just a dining experience, but a culinary journey.
This restaurant masterfully blends traditional Indian favorites with innovative creations, offering a menu that celebrates the depth of India’s culinary heritage.
At Rang De, you’ll find timeless classics like chicken curry, pani puri, and egg dosa that bring a comforting and indulgent treat.
And for those with a sweet tooth, the dessert menu is a must-try. Indulge in traditional favorites like Gulab Jamun or Double Ka Meetha which captures the essence of Indian desserts.
Pro tip:
For a true taste of traditional Indian street food, try their Chaat options—crispy, tangy, and bursting with flavor.
7. Shaaz
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Website: https://theshaaz.com/
Location: Unit-D5, 320 Eagleson Road
Contact Details: (613) 963-4498
Business Hours:
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Located in the lively heart of Ottawa, Shaaz is where you’ll discover the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine brought to life.
Their vibrant menu is a celebration of authentic flavors, from the sizzling tandoori dishes to the aromatic curries that deliver a true taste of India.
Every dish is crafted with care, using the freshest ingredients and a blend of spices that enhance tastes and textures.
Don’t miss out on their Chicken 65, a fan favorite. It’s tender buttered chicken pieces mixed with curry leaves and chilies in a mouthwatering South Indian-Chinese fusion.
Other than that, their inviting atmosphere makes a perfect spot for a relaxed dinner with friends or a special date night.
Pro tip:
Try pairing their flavorful curries with a side of biryani instead of plain rice. The fragrant, spiced rice adds an extra layer of depth to your meal, making each bite a burst of complementary flavors.
8. Biryaniwalla
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Website: https://thebiryaniwalla.com/index.html
Location: 130 Riocan Avenue #1
Contact Details: (613) 823-7999
Business Hours:
- Friday & Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday to Thursday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
With a rich history rooted in Hyderabad’s culinary traditions, Biryaniwalla offers a menu of beloved classics.
This spot is all about serving up rich, savory biryanis that ensure a memorable Indian dining experience. Seriously, each bite is like a little trip to flavor town.
Their Hyderabadi Dum Biryani is also the star of the show. It features fragrant basmati rice, tender marinated meat, and a blend of spices that come together in perfect harmony.
But of course, you can never go wrong with their Paneer Butter Masala. It’s creamy, buttery, and just the right amount of spicy, so basically, comfort food at its finest.
Pro tip:
When dining at Biryaniwalla, don’t hesitate to ask for their house-made chutneys! They add a delightful zing to your meal, enhancing the flavors of the biryani and curries.
9. Sona the Indian Kitchen
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Website: https://www.sonatheindiankitchen.ca/
Location: 1183 Hunt Club Road Unit 104
Contact Details: (613) 733-4678
Business Hours:
- Friday & Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM (Lunch), 4:00 PM – 10:30 PM (Dinner)
- Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:30 pm (Lunch), 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Dinner)
Founded in 2023 by Virendra Singh Negi and Mangal Singh Negi, Sona the Indian Kitchen is where you’ll discover the vibrant flavors of India in a warm, welcoming setting.
With extensive experience in cities around the world, including Mumbai, Dalian, Dubai, Toronto, and Ottawa, they have crafted unique flavor combinations that truly stand out.
At Sona, they proudly share their culinary expertise, offering authentic Indian flavors and high-quality dishes.
Their menu features a wide array of Indian classics, such as Tandoori Chicken, Paneer Pakora, and Dal Tadka.
But what truly sets them apart is their selection of gluten-free signature dishes, such as the Lamb Tava Masala and Chicken Kali Mirch, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the rich, diverse flavors of Indian cuisine.
Pro tip:
Pair your meal at Sona the Indian Kitchen with their signature mango lassi. It’s a creamy, refreshing drink that adds a sweet finish to your dining experience.
10. Sundari’s Kitchen
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Website: https://www.sundariskitchen.ca/
Location: 1487 Merivale Road
Contact Details: (613) 226-2345
Business Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sundari’s Kitchen is a delightful spot where the rich flavors of Indian cuisine meet a modern, inviting atmosphere.
The menu is a culinary journey through India, offering a range of dishes from beloved classics like biryani and samosas to unique specialties like their vibrant paneer tikka masala and the delicately spiced prawn moilee.
For those looking to explore further, the Sambar Vadai and Ghee Pongal are must-tries that surprise and delight with every bite.
Each dish is crafted with care, showcasing the chefs’ dedication to bringing authentic Indian tastes to the Ottawa food scene.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on Sundari’s SPL Filter Coffee. This is best paired with Indian classics like crispy dosa or fluffy idli.