How to Experience the East End of Ottawa Like a True Local
Knowing a neighborhood by heart, like an experienced local, takes years. But what if we told you there’s a cheat sheet, and you’re standing on top of it?
Get ready for an adventure that will take you far beyond the tourist spots. Today, we’re here to guide you to an unforgettable experience of unveiling the vibrant east end of Ottawa like a local.
This fun little handbook has everything you need, from savory bites to sightseeing spots that even locals might say ‘Wow, I didn’t even know this even existed!’
Here’s an adventure so authentic you might just earn an honorary membership to our squad by the time you finish reading!
What to Do in East End of Ottawa
Witness a thrilling game of baseball at Ottawa Stadium
Address: 300 Coventry Rd, Ottawa, ON K1K 4P5, Canada
Phone: +1 613-745-2255
A sports fan’s visit to the east end of Ottawa won’t be complete without watching a thrilling game of baseball at Ottawa Stadium.
Get to catch spirited games of the Ottawa Titans accompanied by a lively crowd, the satisfying crack of the bat, and the strategic moves of the Titans themselves.
Surely, the layers upon layers of excitement will make this one an unforgettable experience.
For the complete and updated game schedule, check Ottawa Titan’s website.
Watch the sunset at Rockcliffe Lookout
Looking for the most gorgeous views the east end has to offer? The Rockcliffe Lookout is a dreamy attraction where you can indulge in coveted views of the river while being surrounded by a verdant landscape.
We highly recommend going here to catch the sunset to ensure a picture-perfect moment.
Whether you’re a nature explorer, a photography aficionado, or simply in search of Ottawa’s best, we’re sure you’ll create lasting memories on this very spot.
Explore Stanley Park
Address: 183 Stanley Ave, Ottawa, ON K1M 1P2, Canada
Phone: +1 613-580-2400
Located along the river edge, Stanley Park is a picturesque location where locals and visitors alike can indulge in the peaceful ambiance of nature.
It’s a popular spot because of the multitude of activities one can enjoy here including walking their dogs, skating, cycling, playing tennis and baseball, and more.
Additionally, it’s also known for its gorgeous falls.
Indulge in the beautiful sights at International Peace Garden
Address: 50 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1M 2C9, Canada
International Peace Garden is a stunning site where one can witness captivating sights of the perfectly manicured landscapes and stunning vibrant hues painted by the gorgeous flowers.
Here’s a tip: during spring, it becomes an even more marvelous backdrop because the tulips are in full bloom. It’s considerably one of the lesser-known gems where one can witness the great Canadian Tulip Festival.
Know more about this annual event by reading up on our guide!
Be captivated by the waterfalls at Rideau Falls Park
Address: 50 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1M 2K1, Canada
Phone: +1 613-239-5000
As you can tell from the name, Rideau Falls Park boasts an enticing opportunity to witness the striking views of the waterfalls.
This location is definitely a testament to how Ottawa prides itself on natural wonders through well-maintained landscapes for everyone to enjoy.
It’s a beautiful sight to behold any time of the year.
Learn how to make art out of glass at Luna Glass Studio & Workshops
Address: 299 Crichton St, Ottawa, ON K1M 1W3, Canada
Phone: +1 613-859-0100
Immerse yourself in a creative experience by signing up for one of the glass art classes at Luna Glass Studio & Workshops.
Each class welcomes a few students, ensuring an intimate setting where the instructor can focus on their students.
A few workshops you can sign up for are how to make bowl and structural leaves, paperweights, and suncatchers. For the complete list of workshops available, keep your eyes peeled for announcements on their website.
Where to Stay in the East End of Ottawa
Hampton Inn by Hilton Ottawa
Address: 100 Coventry Rd, Ottawa, ON K1K 4S3, Canada
Phone: +1 613-741-2300
Pricing: $
Hampton Inn by Hilton Ottawa is one of the sparkling accommodation choices in the east end of Ottawa, offering a convenient proximity to the heart of the city.
Located approximately a 10-minute drive from downtown, dining, shopping, and a multitude of attractions are just right at your fingertips.
There’s nothing extravagant about the rooms, but they feel cozy and equipped with everyone you need for a short stay.
Believe it or not, you get all that for a remarkably low cost! Talk about a steal!
Courtyard by Marriott Ottawa East
Address: 200 Coventry Rd, Ottawa, ON K1K 4S3, Canada
Phone: +1 613-741-9862
Pricing: $$
Another East End delight is Courtyard, an unassuming lodging with a stylish and classic feel. Here, you get the convenience of being near downtown without its lively ambiance.
What stood out the most during our stay was how spacious the rooms were, as if they were made for maximum comfort.
Adding to our fascination were other convenient inclusions like the 24-hour fitness center, restaurant, and free parking.
Where to Eat in the East End Ottawa
The Great Canadian Poutinerie
Address: 311 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K2P 0R2, Canada
Pricing: $$
The Great Canadian Poutinerie is a delicious spot in the east end where you can get Canada’s popular dish.
Having a bite of their sloppy chicken was like a party in our mouths!
This hearty dish is served with crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside chicken, onions, pickles, and their fantastic burger sauce – all nestled in a delightful embrace in one satisfying bowl.
Perkins Restaurant and Bakery
Address: 1130 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON K1K 3B6, Canada
Phone: +1 613-747-9190
Pricing: $$
Perkins Restaurant and Bakery is an American chain that blessed Canadian shores with its exciting breakfast meals and hearty baked goods.
Their pancakes are the ultimate standout choice, but the hearty man’s combo isn’t bad either! It’s an exciting breakfast dish that comes with two eggs, sausage, Applewood smoked bacon, and two sausage links.
Needless to say, it’s enough to pump you up for an adventurous day ahead.
The Soca Kitchen
Address: 224 Beechwood Ave., Vanier, ON K1L 8A7, Canada
Phone: +1 613-695-9190
Pricing: $$
Serving Spanish comfort fare, The Soca Kitchen is a hip joint you’d want to go back to again and again.
The star of the show? It’s definitely their tacos!
And that’s not just coming from us. In fact, a little birdie told us that this classic dish earned sparkling reviews from many of its customers.
By the way, do check out the different flavors they have available, especially if you want to explore the options. However, we can confidently say that the braised pulled beef is extremely special.
Le St. Laurent
Address: 460 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON K1K 4Z2, Canada
Phone: +1 613-421-1444
Pricing: $$@
Le St. Laurent specializes in delectable French plates with a focus on modern, innovative twists, thanks to Executive Chef Ryan Edwards.
Their menu adapts to what’s available that season, promising customers a delightful surprise every visit.
Oh, and by the way, the restaurant is located on the top floor; we highly recommend dining in just before sunset. Scenic views will surely complement the tasty dishes!
Fraser
Address: 7 Springfield Rd, Ottawa, ON K1M 1C8, Canada
Phone: +1 613-749-1444
Pricing: $$$
Fraser is a chic hotspot, offering a meticulously crafted menu with locally sourced ingredients. Found in New Edinburgh, an Ottawan east-end neighborhood, it’s a delightful addition to this upscale area.
While they’re also open at night, they’re highly regarded as a spectacular brunch destination, with the local mushroom and pork belly on toast reigning as the most coveted meal.
This delightful plate comes with fried egg, truffle, milk bread, and tomato jus.
Habesha Restaurant
Address: 99 Montréal Rd, Vanier, ON K1L 6E8, Canada
Phone: +1 613-761-6120
Pricing: $
Habesha Restaurant is an unpretentious spot that serves delightful Ethiopian dishes, instantly capturing anyone’s heart with the exciting flavors of this African cuisine.
Surprisingly, this gem is lesser known compared to most on this list. However, that didn’t stop us from going on a deep dive into their mouthwatering menu!
One particular dish that made our taste buds tingle was the habesha platter – a filling dish crafted with 8 different beef and delectable veggie sauces.
Aztec Tacos
Address: 77 Montréal Rd, Vanier, ON K1L 6E8, Canada
Phone: +1 613-741-9998
Pricing: $
Aztec Tacos stands out as a lovely addition to the east end of Ottawa. Not only are the prices affordable, but the delicious menu options are sure to appeal to almost anyone’s palate.
A personal favorite of ours is the quesabirria, which is a delightful concoction made with corn tortilla, cheese (and lots of it!), and birria stewed meat.
We highly suggest ordering two so that your order comes with half a liter of consume that you’d want to devour as soon as you’re done with the dish.
Rockcliffe Boathouse Restaurant & Marina
Address: Sir-George-Étienne-Cartier Pkwy, Ottawa, ON K1M 0A2, Canada
Phone: +1 613-744-5253
Pricing: $$
With its offering of exceptional river views, Rockcliffe stands as an unbeatable location for quality meals.
Most of what they serve is the classic bar grub including fish and chips, nachos, and such. Some locals go here to enjoy a nice cold beer while feeling the cool breeze.
Honestly, they’re on the pricier side considering the portion of the plates. However, because the ambiance is top-notch, we’ll let it slide!
The Scone Witch
Address: 393 Winston Ave, Ottawa, ON K2A 1Y8, Canada
Phone: +1 613-729-0002
Pricing: $
The Scone Witch is a charming east-end Ottawa bakery that serves mouthwatering handmade scones and hearty sandwiches. Surprisingly, they’re one of Ottawa’s best-kept secrets – but not anymore!
Their smoked turkey sandwich definitely deserves the spotlight because of its rich and tantalizing burst of flavors.
Idriss Mediterranean
Address: 319 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON K1K 2Z5, Canada
Phone: +1 613-421-4008
Pricing: $
Another hidden gem, Idriss Mediterranean is a dynamic hotspot for delectable and authentic Algerian dishes.
Their kafta tajine is extremely popular and with good reason. It’s a filling meal with a tomato base crafted with delightful inclusions of meatballs and eggs.
It also comes with a side of roasted salad and bread, so you really get what you pay for.
The Royal Oak
Address: 1 Beechwood Ave. 1st floor, Ottawa, ON K1M 1M2, Canada
Phone: +1 613-680-1130
Pricing: $$
If you want to get a feel for a local pub, consider going to The Royal Oak. Here, they can whip you up all the classic bar fare like nachos, tacos, and chicken wings.
But our ultimate favorite? It’s none other than their weekend breakfast menu!
The original eggs benedict is a must-try.
While you’re here, be sure to try their famous cocktails too – not for breakfast, of course, but we won’t judge!
Where to Find the Best Coffee in the East End of Ottawa
Red Door Provisions
Address: 117 Beechwood Ave., Ottawa, ON K1M 1L6, Canada
Phone: +1 613-695-6804
Pricing: $$
Red Door Provisions is a charming cafe-slash-bakery in the east end. If you find yourself strolling along Beechwood Ave, it’s impossible not to stop by for a visit, considering its snazzy facade brimming with character.
Of course, the coffee is a must-try, given its consistent excellence.
Additionally, don’t miss out on the grilled cheese too. It’s a crowd favorite for a reason!
Bridgehead
Address: 160 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 2C4, Canada
Phone: +1 613-563-1731
Pricing: $$
Bridgehead is a local coffee chain with multiple stores across the city. Surprisingly, it still has the same feel as your neighborhood coffee shop with a slightly more elevated feel.
The latte stands out as the most popular choice. After all, you can’t go wrong with the classics!
Their matcha vanilla latte is also a great option. Albeit on the sweeter side, you can always ask them to adjust the sweetness according to your liking.
Union Street Kitchen Cafe
Address: 42 Crichton St, Ottawa, ON K1M 1V4, Canada
Pricing: $$
Union Street Kitchen Cafe is a quaint coffee nook with a cozy and charming interior. It’s a great hangout spot if you find yourself strolling in the neighborhood of New Edinburgh.
If you want to stray away from the classic choice, we highly recommend the golden cardamom latte, especially if you appreciate a blend of earthy and citrusy flavors.
Otherwise, the flat white might just be up to par with what you’re looking for!
In the hunt for the best coffee in the city? We wrote our top 5 recommendations here.
Where to Shop in the East End of Ottawa
St. Laurent Shopping Centre
Address: 1200 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON K1K 3B8, Canada
Phone: +1 613-745-6858
St. Laurent Shopping Centre is a one-stop shop for everything you need. With shops ranging from fashion boutiques and electronics to restaurants and services, this multifaceted shopping gem is here to make things convenient for you.
Make sure to visit their food court; they have a wide range of dining options available!
Green Fresh Supermarket Vanier
— Media credit: @tmegginson
Address: 175 McArthur Ave., Vanier, ON K1L 6P8, Canada
Phone: +1 613-748-1038
Green Fresh Supermarket is a Chinese supermarket, offering an eclectic variety of products that help you whip up Asian classics in your own kitchen. In fact, some items they have are almost impossible to find elsewhere!
Expect to see an assortment of produce, seafood staples, snacks, spices, and a whole lot more.
Little White Lantern
Address: 17 Kilbarry Crescent, Ottawa, ON K1K 0G9, Canada
Phone: +1 613-793-9080
Little White Lantern prides itself in offering locally crafted candles, as well as bath and beauty products.
For the candles, they have a wide variety of scents to choose from like Lily of the Valley, ruby grapefruit, chai latte, and our personal favorite – the coffee caramel. We have one burning in our office as we speak!
While they don’t offer the same variety for their bath and beauty, each one feels deluxe enough to make for a perfect gift. Consider trying their bath soak for instant relief to dry skin!