8 Rooftop Restaurants in Ottawa Where You Can Dine Under the Stars
Ottawa’s winters can get exceptionally cold, making patio season feel like a well-earned reward. As soon as the sun comes out, I like to make the most out of dining al fresco—but so do most people.
Whenever my favorite spots are packed, my go-to is always a good rooftop restaurant. After all, it’s a patio in the sky with unmatched views of the city.
The endless options can be overwhelming, so I’ve rounded up the best rooftop restaurants in Ottawa below. Each one is perfect for grabbing a delicious bite and a refreshing drink, all with a view.
1. Umbrella Restaurant
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Website: http://www.umbrellabarottawa.com/
Location: 1001 Queen Elizabeth Driveway
Phone: +16132313443
Opening hours: Daily, 11 AM to 10 PM
Umbrella is a laidback waterfront restaurant serving elevated comfort foods at Dow’s Lake, one of the best lakes in Ottawa(lakes Ottawa). From burgers and sandwiches to chicken tenders, they offer hefty meals that pair well with their beer on tap.
Aside from the views, everyone comes here for the burgers, which are all served with a side of crispy fries. The Umbrella burger, a smashed chuck layered with cheese, shaved lettuce, and a generous dose of sauce between buttered buns, is a must-try.
Here, you’ll find a fresh lineup of wines, beers, and cocktails tailored to the time of year Whether it’s a crisp white wine for a summer sunset or a spiced cocktail to warm up a cool evening, the selection is always in tune with the mood and flavors of the season.
Pro Tip:
Umbrella doesn’t accept reservations; only walk-ins. They’re busiest on Fridays and Saturdays so arrive early for lunch or dinner to grab a table.
2. La Terrasse
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Website: http://www.fairmont.com/laurier-ottawa/dining/la-terrasse/
Location: 1 Rideau Street
Phone: +16132411414
Opening hours: Daily, 11 AM to 11 PM
La Terrasse, set on the roof of the Fairmont, has arguably the most stunning views of the capital. From here, you can see the iconic Parliament Building, Gatineau Hills, and Ottawa River—all in one sweeping glance.
Their all-day menu, made for social dining, has a lot of shareables, such as pizza, charcuterie boards, and other light plates that pair well with a boozy drink. But if you’re craving something heftier, a Rib Eye or Tomahawk steak won’t disappoint.
Just be prepared; it’s a bit of a splurge, but the views and the vibe make every dollar worth it. Whether it’s date night or a special family celebration, La Terrasse offers a dining experience that feels truly elevated.
Pro Tip:
Happy hours are on the weekends from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM, while live entertainment is every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday.
3. Rooftop Sneaki Tiki Bar
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Website: https://rabbitholeott.ca/
Location: 129 Bank Street
Phone: +1 613 695 0500
Operating hours: Depends on the weather
Housed in the Rabbit Hole, the Sneaki Tiki Bar is a little secret you’ll find at the very top of a 130-year-old building. They serve fresh oysters, wood-fired pizza, and truffle chips, but everyone comes here for the cocktails.
Taking inspiration from the tropics, they offer creative concoctions made from rum and fresh fruits. With upbeat music in the background and a view of a bustling downtown street, it’s a great spot to dance and socialize.
It’s not exactly the place for a fancy, sit-down dinner because it mostly has outdoor lounge chairs on the patio. I recommend grabbing a meal at Rabbit Hole before heading to the rooftop for drinks.
Pro Tip:
Reservations are required to enter the Sneaki Tiki Bar because you won’t find it on your own. Their staff will show you the entrance to the secret staircase, which leads to the rooftop bar.
4. Copper Spirits and Sights
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Website: https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/yowaz-andaz-ottawa-byward-market/dining
Location: 325 Dalhousie Street
Phone: +16133211234
Opening hours:
Sun-Thu, 5 PM to 11 PM
Fri-Sat, 5 PM to 12 AM
Copper Spirits and Sights is a premium lounge perched on the 16th floor of the Andaz Hotel, giving you sweeping views of the city and an unforgettable time. It’s a hotspot for stylish crowds: think couples on date nights and locals celebrating special occasions.
They only serve small plates of food, carefully curated to pair well with their extensive liquor selection. From scallop ceviches and shrimp cocktails to cheese and charcuterie boards, their refreshing summer menu is a treat you’ll think about all week long.
What I like the most about this spot is the outdoor fire pit, which will keep you warm during chilly nights. You can cozy up by the flames with a cocktail in hand while you admire the twinkling lights of the city below.
Pro Tip:
Since Copper Spirits and Sights only serves tapas-style dishes, it’s ideal for post-dinner drinks. Grab a meal at the restaurant below, Feast and Revel, or other restaurants in ByWard Market before hitting this spot.
5. Rooftop Ottawa
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Website: http://www.rooftopottawa.ca/
Location: 54 York St 3rd Level
Phone: +16134210820
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri, 4 PM to late night
Sat-Sun, 3 PM to late night
Rooftop Ottawa captures the lively spirit of the ByWard Market, buzzing with energy and life. It’s the kind of place that pulls you in after a long day, making it great for post-work drinks, romantic date nights, or laid-back weekend get-togethers with friends.
They have a seasonal menu, which changes to reflect the freshest local ingredients. From light summer salads to heartier fall-inspired dishes, there’s always something new to experience and savor.
But the real kicker? Unlike other rooftop restaurants on our list, this one is open year-round—even during the cold winter months. They just switch up the chairs to keep things cozy and warm, so it’s the perfect escape from the chilly streets below.
Pro Tip:
Rooftop Ottawa is a great spot to watch the Lac Leamy Fireworks, an annual summer tradition in July and August. Reservations usually open at least an hour before the event.
6. Pure Kitchen Westboro
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Website: http://www.purekitchenottawa.com/
Location: 357 Richmond Road
Phone: +16136805500
Opening hours: Daily, 11:30 AM to 9 PM
Pure Kitchen is a vegetarian restaurant and juice bar serving fresh, nourishing meals that don’t skimp on flavor or creativity. Even if you’re not vegan, you’ll discover dishes that are bold, exciting, and downright delicious.
They have quite an extensive menu featuring burgers and wraps to salad bowls, which are best savored with a refreshing drink. Aside from cold-pressed juices, their signature cocktails and mocktails are phenomenal.
While they do have a few stores in the city, the Westboro location is my favorite because of its rooftop patio. With cozy seating, warm string lights, and a laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the summer sunsets.
Pro Tip:
If you like to indulge in a good margarita once in a while, stop by for Salted Rim Sundays at Pure Kitchen Wesboro from 4 PM to 9 PM.
7. El Furniture Warehouse
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Website: https://warehousegroup.ca/
Location: 77 Clarence Street
Phone: +16136951771
Opening hours: Daily, 11 AM to 2 AM
El Furniture Warehouse is my go-to spot for small plates and late-night drinks with friends. Every item is priced reasonably, so you can enjoy good food without breaking the bank.
The menu is always changing, but you can expect it to have comfort food classics such as loaded nachos, savory wings, and hefty beef burgers. They also have an impressive booze selection, which includes draft beer, craft cocktails, wine, and some bubbly.
What sets El Furniture Warehouse apart from the rest of the rooftop restaurants is its electric night scene. Sure, you can have a quiet meal here, but let’s be real: it’s the late-night drinks, the good company, and the vibes that keep us coming back.
Pro Tip:
For a more peaceful meal, sans the crowds, drop by for lunch or dinner on a weekday.
8. Alora Restaurant and Bar
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Website: http://aloraottawa.com/
Location: 34 Clarence Street
Phone: +16135624955
Opening hours:
Wed-Thu, 5 PM to 11 PM
Fri-Sat, 4 PM to 2 PM
Sun, 4 PM to 11 PM
Just on the second floor of the Alora Restaurant and Bar, you’ll find a small, cozy patio where you can enjoy some fries, sliders, and maybe a refreshing salad.
The rooftop menu is quite limited—only featuring small plates to go with wine and cocktails. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, you can’t go wrong with a cold, fruity slushie.
Alora stands out as a fantastic place for socializing. Whether you’re looking to meet new people or catch up with old friends, the rooftop’s welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to strike up conversations.
Pro Tip:
Grab a bite before coming here for drinks.