The 5 Best Live Music Venues in Ottawa That Are Practically Tune Lovers’ Hangout Spots
Sometimes, I go out with friends not for the drinks, but for the kind of music that helps you forget the week’s stress.
And honestly, that feeling is unbeatable—just vibing into the kind of tunes you love, not worrying about what’s going to happen when you get back to work on Monday. As a devout music lover, that’s the kind of recharge I always opt for.
If you’re the same, I’m sure you’ll find this guide about the best live music venues in Ottawa worth reading.
How much does attending a live music venue cost in Ottawa?
Attending a live music event in Ottawa typically costs between $10 and $100, with prices varying widely depending on the venue, the artist’s popularity, and the type of event.
1. Jazz@248
Address: 248 Bank St Unit 2
Business hours: Tue-Sun: 6:30 PM – 11 PM
Jazz@248 takes pride in being Ottawa’s open jazz jamming club—a spot where you can feel the living and breathing spirit of this music genre.
They host an open jam session where jazz lovers and enthusiasts can bring their own instruments and sing along with the house band.
With their 28-person maximum capacity, it’s an intimate atmosphere that’ll make you feel like you’re renting the space with a few other people.
I also look forward to album launches here, mostly from Jazz and light musicians. I’ve discovered old and new talents that you normally won’t see in other clubs in the city.
However, they’re only open until 11 PM, which means your enjoyment will probably be cut short.
Having a space to express yourself with talented musicians is such a gift
“Wow!! What an amazing place… And it’s just what Ottawa needed! When I heard about this place I was over the moon excited. The owners are lovely, kind and helpful. Having a common space to express yourself musically among a wide variety of incredibly talented musicians is such a gift to our community. Drink prices are very reasonable, and they have some very simple food items available for purchase as well. Thank you for bringing this beautiful space to life. I’ll definitely be back!”
– Amanda, Google Review
The vibe is intimate and unassuming, putting the focus on the talented musicians
“If you’re looking for authentic live music without the pretension or a huge price tag, Jazz @248 is your spot. The vibe is intimate and unassuming, putting the focus squarely on the talented musicians who play here nightly. The cover charge is a steal at just $10, and the drinks are refreshingly affordable with beers ranging from $7-8—a rare find for a live music venue. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy great jazz, have a couple of drinks, and not feel the pinch. Highly recommended for a casual, quality night out.”
– Sri Julio, Google Review
2. LIVE! on Elgin
Address: 220 Elgin St #2
Phone: +1 613 695 5483
LIVE! on Elgin was born out of a two-year process of discussions, polls, and planning to fill a gap in Ottawa’s live-theatre and music venue scene.
Almost all the musical programs here revolve around old-school music, making it a great hangout spot for a taste of nostalgia. Visit on the first Saturday of the month to enjoy dancing to the DJ’s curation of ‘60s vinyl classics.
We also love to lose ourselves in the ‘90s music dance party every second Friday of the month. The DJ plays pop and alternative rock songs, usually from well-known artists like Alanis Morissette, Arctic Monkeys, and Death Cab for Cutie.
Beyond DJ shows, the main entertainment here is the open mic night every Tuesday, where you’ll discover up-and-coming artists performing their originally composed songs.
The only downside is that it can get so crowded during open mic nights that seeing the performer becomes difficult from the back of the room.
Overall, it was a very pleasant evening, and I would definitely visit again
“I arrived on Tuesday with a friend for open-mic night, first time for both us. We arrived a few minutes before doors opened so we just hung out for a short while, but was greeted very nicely by two ladies, one whom I assumed helped manage the place, and the other was behind the counter bartending. The environment was very welcoming, and everyone was very respectful towards all of the performers that night whether they were fairly new or veterans. Overall it was a very pleasant evening and I would definitely visit again to support all the great local artists who perform here.”
– Adam Cormier, Google Review
One of the best open mics I’ve ever been to every Tuesday night
“One of the best open mics I’ve ever been to every Tuesday night. Some of the best male vocalist in Ottawa. Also lots of Hip Hop and spoken word although more hip-hop then spoken word are comfortable enough to attend. There’s a piano and many people have guitars so they may be adding to that I’ve heard to include some percussion.”
– Andrea, Google Review
3. Dominion Tavern
Address: 33 York St
Phone: +1 613 241 7706
Business hours: Mon-Sun: 11 AM – 2 AM
Dominion Tavern is a dive bar in the Ottawa Byward Market. It has a 30-year history of being home to underground artists in the city.
I love the variety of hardcore music you can enjoy here, including punk, garage, metal, and other hard-hitting tunes that’ll make every listener amped up.
The bar’s not trendy, in a good way, allowing first-timers to experience a place that doesn’t rely on gimmicks to entertain the crowd — just pure love for music.
I like this spot for its welcoming atmosphere. You’ll feel comfortable and accepted, whatever clothes you wear.
For those who love to have a good time whenever the time permits, it’s a plus that the bar is open seven days a week, from late morning to after midnight.
However, most customers would warn you about the long wait time for orders, often exceeding the timeframe the servers promised.
The definitive jaunt for all flavours of punk, metal, and alternative music
“One of a kind dive bar & an Ottawa institution. The definitive jaunt for all flavours punk, metal, and alternative music in the Byward Market, with chill vibes and strong anti-establishment spirit. Also the home of some of the nicest people in town.”
– Ash Soanes, Google Review
Punk rock, metal, and rock are on the menu
“Alway’s a good time. Great staff, friendly customers. I was there recently and forgot my jacket with valuables, called the next day, they had my jacket and all my valuables were there. 10+ staff and customers!!! If you’re looking for a trendy place, this is not for you. If you’re looking for a place that will treat you as you treat the staff, this is the place for you. Punk rock, metal and rock is one the menu.Great ontario microbrews and shots. Great little patio out back for those hot summer nights. Unfortunately it’s not wheelchair accesible as far as I know.”
– phillip turner, Google Review
4. Irene’s Pub
Address: 885 Bank St
Phone: +1 613 230 4474
Business hours:
- Mon-Fri: 12 PM – 2 AM
- Sat-Sun: 11 AM – 2 AM
Irene’s Pub, opened in 1985, is Ottawa’s most celebrated live-music venue in the Glebe neighbourhood, nurturing local artists and sometimes, touring acts.
The pub’s music leans on melancholic tunes. They have a Blues session every Thursday night, where artists pour their hearts out performing both covers and their original songs.
They also host weekly revue performances every Sunday night, allowing guests to discover traditional Jamaican folk music that they’ll never see in most musical venues.
That said, some customers mentioned clumsy servers who often spilled drinks.
This is a cool venue for live music
“This is a cool venue for live music. The place has quite a bit of character and I enjoyed watching the pub life go on as I sipped my beer. I actually only wrote this review though to point out that their buttermilk wings are so delicious. I had hot honey and was not disappointed. It’s really the buttermilk breading that makes these wings so spectacular. I’ll definitely be back for them and for live music. Service can seem a touch slow if the place is busy but that’s not for the staff’s lack of effort and definitely shouldn’t stop anyone from coming. The staff are all great.”
– Benjamin, Google Review
Nice assortment of bevvies, and a sweet live music experience
“Fabulous character that lives in, probably because the staff is so welcoming. Nice assortment of bevvies, and a sweet live music experience is had here. Perfect location to enjoy Lansdowne and the Glebe while finishing up with an evening of music and friends.”
– Bengt Neathery, Google Review
5. The Laff
Address: 42 York St
Phone: +1 613 241 4747
Business hours: Mon-Sun: 11 AM – 2 AM
The Laff is one of Ottawa’s oldest taverns, celebrating its 176th anniversary in 2025. They’re one of the few music venues in the city that offer live music daily.
You’ll surely love the diverse music they play here. Every day is a different musical entertainment, giving you something to look forward to.
The tavern’s DJ night every Friday is a great way to loosen up your tie and just enjoy the loud music curated by the in-house and local talents. They often invite three or more DJs to add variety for the crowd to dance to.
I also like the open mic they host every Tuesday. Sign-ups begin at 7 PM and kick off at 8 PM, where local musicians grab the stage for live performances.
Despite all the glam, some customers were disappointed by staff who failed to follow simple requests.
Their open mics on Tuesdays have a welcoming atmosphere and get pretty jovial
“An authentic dive bar as far as I can tell. Cozy and comfortable without being upscale, which is reflected in the prices. The staff seem annoyed when tasked with their core responsibilities, like pouring/serving beer, but you’ll quickly see it as part of the charm if you dont take it personally. Their open mics on tuesdays have a welcoming atmosphere and get pretty jovial as the bar fills with more unemployed musicians. An essential stop for any drinking night in the market.”
– Jeremy Keast, Google Review
The music is varied from Tuesday night open mic to residencies
“An eclectic mixture of people gather here. The music offerings are also varied from Tuesday night open mic to Wednesday and Sunday residencies, live cover acts on Thursdays and Fridays and some great DJs on Saturday and Sunday. There is something for everyone. House specialities on the menu also show how quirky it can be but it’s all delicious. Always a good time.”
– Karen Quesnel (K), Google Review