These 10 Best Little Italy Restaurants Serve Up Flavorful Experiences You Can’t Miss
If you’re craving Italian dishes in Ottawa, there’s no better place to explore other than Kanata. Just kidding! It’s obviously Little Italy – I mean, the name says it all.
That said, this buzzing area isn’t just about Italian classics as you might expect.
Sure, you can snag some really delicious pasta here (I’ll show you where!), but don’t let the name fool you; Little Italy is more exciting than you might think – it’s a culinary melting pot.
You’ll be amazed by the variety of culinary delights you can find here.
From mouthwatering smash burgers to fresh oysters that’ll make you forget you’re not by the sea, this neighborhood offers a whole world of flavors where your passport is just your appetite.
1. DreamLand Cafe
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Website: https://dreamlandcafe.ca/
Address: 262 Preston St
Contact details: +1 613-422-4200
Operating hours:
- Sunday and Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Thursday – 5 PM to 10 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11:30 AM to 3 PM, 4 PM to 10 PM
Right off the bat, DreamLand Cafe boasts an eye-catching interior decked out in all pink that even Barbie would be jealous of.
As if that’s not enough to catch your attention, their modern Italian dishes call out to anyone craving a culinary adventure with a twist. I mean, did you really visit Little Italy if you didn’t try out any Italian hotspots?
The broccoli mac and cheese is a popular choice here, especially for parents who want to sneak in some veggies without their kids realizing they’re actually eating healthy!
Okay, the latter is a joke, but it’s not far off. It’s popular for its creamy, gooey cheese that turns even the most skeptical veggie eater into a fan (a.k.a me).
2. Pub Italia
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Website: https://pubitalia.ca/
Address: 434 Preston St
Contact details: +1 613-232-2326
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 1 AM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 12 AM
If a lively dining experience is what you’re looking for in Little Italy, come swing by Pub Italia. Folks love sitting by the patio, especially those who are keen on people-watching.
Here’s a fun twist – it’s church-themed, complete with tympanums, crosses, and lamps that mimic stained-glass windows.
The meatballs here are the talk of the town. For lack of a better term, I’d say they’re divine and heavenly. Each bite guarantees a perfect blend of tender, juicy meat and rich, savory spices!
3. EVOO Greek Kitchen
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Website: https://www.evoogreekkitchen.ca/
Address: 438 1/2 Preston St
Contact details: +1 613-695-3860
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 3 PM, 4:30 PM to 10 PM
Little Italy is a diverse neighborhood, offering other bites beyond delicious Italian dishes. Here, we have the EVOO Greek Kitchen, a renowned brunch spot people are obsessed with for its warm and inviting enclave.
For something filling, I suggest getting the EVOO classic. It comes with star ingredients like eggs, pork belly, and halloumi cheese, along with sourdough toast, ensuring a hearty and satisfying meal that will keep you fueled for the day.
Of course, it’s not a popular brunch spot without some tasty cocktails! Have a mimosa on the side for an elevated experience.
4. Kuidaore
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Website: https://www.kuidaore.ca/
Address: 420 Preston St
Contact details: +1 613-422-7537
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday – closed
- Wednesday to Sunday – 12 PM to 9:30 PM
The Best in Ottawa team considers Kuidaore one of the best ramen spots in ottawa, most especially for its shio ramen. It’s a classic choice, one that you can’t go wrong with, especially if a light, salty broth is your jam.
Beyond its ramen choices, Kuidaore knows how to delight with a range of other Japanese cuisine favorites, such as okonomiyaki, katsudon, and sushi. Throw some skewers into the mix and you’ve got yourself a feast fit for a foodie!
5. Smash Daddy
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Website: https://smashdaddy.ca/
Address: 298 Preston St
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 8 PM
Smash Daddy has single-handedly converted me into a smash-burger-loving foodie. While their menu is extremely short, don’t be fooled. It’s a testament to their expertise that they’ve truly mastered each one.
Everything is a must-try, but the classic Smash Daddy is my favorite, which I also recommend to those seeking to get a bite of their specialty.
With its delicious, savory, and juicy beef, topped with American cheese and other exciting ingredients, this burger delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
6. Umbrella Burger
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Website: https://www.instagram.com/umbrella.burg/
Address: 186 Preston St
Contact details: +1 613-230-1973
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM
Umbrella Burger is a cozy hangout spot, offering an array of savory bites that keep things fresh and simple – no unnecessary gimmicks, just ridiculously delicious food!
The chicken sandwich is the ultimate hot item here, featuring a secret recipe for a delightfully crispy chicken breast, topped with slaw, pickles, and their legendary chicken sauce.
For those seeking an elevated experience, the chicken sandwich burger style offers a tasty twist, adding American cheese, lettuce, and onion to the classic.
And did I mention you can choose your spice level too?
7. Laheeb Grill & Shawarma
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Website: https://www.laheebrestaurants.com/
Address: 947 Somerset St W
Contact details: +1 613-750-0707
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11 AM to 9:30 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM
Laheeb offers delicious Middle Eastern fare in a casual, laid-back enclave. Some might be deterred from its modest facade, but let me tell you – that might just be one of the worst mistakes of their lives!
Okay, maybe I’m being a little dramatic, but really, they have one of the best shawarmas in Ottawa, which I’m sure you’ll agree with if you get a taste of their chicken shawarma. The tender, spiced chicken wrapped in warm, fluffy pita is simply unbeatable.
8. Ayla’s Social Kitchen
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Website: https://aylassocial.ca/
Address: 338 Preston St
Contact details: +1 343-984-4486
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Sunday – 5 PM to 10 PM
Ayla’s Social Kitchen is a sophisticated destination in Little Italy, boasting modern Mediterranean delights in a stylish and elevated setting.
Ayla’s kebab is definitely the best seller – a delightful concoction where the star ingredient is the pomegranate & herb-marinated striploin kabab.
Elevating the flavors to a whole new world of culinary masterpieces are the yogurt pomegranate sauce and saffron rice, creating a symphony of tangy, savory, and aromatic notes that will have your taste buds dancing.
Don’t forget to leave some room for dessert. A little birdie told me the halva sundae is phenomenal.
9. Atelier
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Website: https://www.atelierrestaurant.ca/
Address: 540 Rochester St
Contact details: +1 613-321-3537
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Tuesday – closed
- Wednesday to Saturday – 6 PM to 8 PM
Atelier is the epitome of high-end dining, offering a minimalist space where a groundbreaking 12-course tasting menu takes center stage.
Here, a 12-course tasting menu highlights the artistry of the people in the kitchen, transforming each course into an extraordinary experience.
They also have a well-thought-out wine pairing menu that perfectly complements the innovative flavors of their dishes. This thoughtful touch adds another layer to the already impressive meal, making every bite and sip a delightful experience.
10. Mati
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Website: https://www.matiottawa.ca/
Address: 428 Preston St
Contact details: +1 613-680-3860
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Thursday – 5 PM to 12 AM
- Friday – 5 PM to 1 AM
- Saturday – 4 PM to 1 AM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 3 PM, 5 PM to 12 AM
Mati elevates traditional Mediterranean flavors and ingredients into a contemporary culinary experience. It’s a definite must-visit when you’re in Little Italy, especially if you have a refined palate seeking a unique adventure.
Make sure to try out their crudo + raw bar for a fresh, mouthwatering experience that showcases the best of Mediterranean seafood.
But if that’s not your jam, you might like the roasted truffle chicken as much as I do. It’s a rich and indulgent dish that pairs perfectly with the subtle earthiness of truffles.