The 5 Best Pool Bars in Ottawa for a Fun Game Night With Friends
Ottawa’s bar scene is a true reflection of the city’s diversity, offering everything from cozy pubs to lively sports bars—each with its own unique vibe.
To spice up our nights and break up our routine at our usual spots, my friends and I often do game nights. We visit new bars and explore their entertainment centers.
While many bars boast pinball machines or board games, pool tables have become harder to come by. But don’t worry, we’ve found a few spots where you can enjoy a casual game with friends or a more competitive one with local leagues.
So, whenever you’re in the mood to rack up some fun, here are the best pool bars in Ottawa to visit.
1. Tailgators
— Media credit: travelbitescockpit
Website: https://tailgators.ca/
Location: 1642 Merivale Rd, Nepean
Opening hours:
Sun-Thu, 12 AM to 1 AM
Fri-Sat, 12 AM to 2 AM
Phone: +16132240249
Pool table rates:
Noon to 6 PM, $8.50 per person
Evening, $20 per hour for 1 table
Tailgators is an iconic sports bar and pool hall in Ottawa’s west end. It has a lively vibe perfect for both casual nights out and competitive games of pool.
What makes it a stand-out choice for game night is its massive size, spanning over 16,000 square feet. It houses 43 pool tables with ample space around them so you can enjoy your game without feeling cramped.
From noon to 6 PM, it costs $8.50 per person to play pool here, but for as many hours as you want within that time frame. At night, you’ll have to pay $20 per table for an hour of playtime
They serve pub staples like wings, burgers, nachos, and poutine. They also have an extensive drinks menu, including a wide range of beers on tap and cocktails, so there’s a little bit of something for everyone.
Pro Tip:
If you’re in the mood for other games, the venue also offers foosball and ping pong.
2. MacLaren’s on Elgin
— Media credit: maclarensonelgin
Website: https://maclarens.com/
Location: 301 Elgin St
Opening hours:
Mon-Thu, 5 PM to 1 AM
Fri-Sat, 5 PM to 2 AM
Sun, 5 PM to 12 AM
Phone: +16132362766
Pool table rates: $12 per hour
MacLaren’s is a popular local hangout, especially for those in their 20s and 30s. With 25 pool tables and 6 flatscreen TVs, it’s a great place to enjoy a cold drink after an exhausting day at work.
What I like about playing pool here is that the tables only cost $12 per hour, regardless of the number of players. Even during peak hours, they have the same rate, which is quite a steal.
As for their food, they serve pub grubs like nachos and fries, but you can get full-course dinners here as well. You can wash all that down with your choice of beer or cider, which you can get by pint or pitchers.
Pro Tip:
They accept group reservations for parties with 10 to 300 guests. But on Fridays and Saturdays, they only accept a maximum of 25 guests for party reservations between 5 PM and 6 PM—with a limit of 3 pool tables.
3. Orange Monkey Bar and Billiards
— Media credit: perfectly_imperfect_fam
Website: https://www.orangemonkeybilliards.com/
Location: 250 City Centre Ave
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri, 9:30 AM to 2 AM
Sat-Sun, 10 AM to 2 AM
Phone: +16132302850
Pool table rates:
Before 5 PM, $7.50 per hour for 1 person
After 5 PM, $8.50 per hour for 1 person
Orange Monkey Bar and Billiards is a retro-themed bar with neon lights, arcade games, and vintage decor. It’s a great spot to relax and play a few rounds.
With 7,000 square meters of space, they can fit 14 pool tables and 6 snooker tables—all in perfect condition.
There’s no pressure to be a professional here, and you’ll often find groups of friends who are just looking to have a good time.
Pro Tip:
They open in the morning so it’s a great place to grab brunch. It’s also the best time to play pool as the rates are cheaper and the tables are less crowded.
4. Dooly’s Ottawa
— Media credit: doolysottawa
Website: https://www.doolysottawa.com/
Location: 2277 Gladwin Crescent
Opening hours:
Sun-Thu, 12 PM to 12 AM
Fri, 12 PM to 2 AM
Sat, 11 PM to 2 AM
Phone: +16132602311
Pool table rates: $14.25 per hour
Dooly’s Ottawa offers a slightly more upscale pool experience, especially for group reservations. Although they do have the usual pub grub, they offer a special catering menu with roast beef, curry rice, and garden salads for parties.
You’ll like playing pool at this bar because all 41 tables are clean and well-maintained. Since they have their own pool leagues and tournaments, it’s not just a place for casual weekend game nights.
Pro Tip:
Sign up for a membership at Dooly’s to get discounts on your pool hours. On Mondays, all members can play for only half the price.
5. Dominion Tavern
— Media credit: angrywokeboi
Website: http://www.tavern.ca/
Location: 33 York St
Opening hours: Daily 11 AM to 2 AM
Phone: +16132417706
If you’re in the mood for something more old-school, head to Dominion Tavern in Ottawa’s ByWard Market. This beloved dive bar has been around for decades and offers a gritty atmosphere that draws a loyal crowd.
It’s known for its intimate rock, metal, and grunge concerts, which take place nearly every week. But most people don’t know you can play pool here before the live performances.
They only have two coin-operated pool tables. Since most people don’t really come here to play, you’ll often find them vacant even during peak hours.
Other than that, I like the bar’s range of local craft beers. While you won’t find elaborate cocktails on the menu, you will find generous pours at reasonable prices.
Pro Tip:
Check their website or socials to see the scheduled performances for the month.