Only Divine Bites Await in These Top 15 Spots For Late-Night Food in Ottawa!
Ottawa is a city that sleeps, which can make finding delicious food spots for your late-night munchies a bit of a treasure hunt.
But before you resign yourself to sleeping on an empty stomach, let me be your guide to uncovering the best nocturnal food haunts in the city.
My qualifications? Well, I’m someone who often sleeps when the sun is out, so I think I’ve mastered the art of nocturnal snacking!
Moreover, I’ve had my fair share of night owl cravings, but as you would expect, I was only met with disappointment when I found my usual go-to’s already shuttered for the night.
Luckily, after years of exploration, I’ve managed to curate a list of go-tos for those after-hour bites.
My guarantee? Only divine bites await you here. Oh, and be prepared for a food coma that will have you snoring before you hit the bed!
1. Zak’s Diner
Website: https://zaksdiner.com
Address: 14 Byward Market Square
Contact details: +1 613-241-2401
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 7 AM to 10 PM
- Thursday – 7 AM to 12 AM
- Friday and Saturday – Open 24 hours
Zak’s Diner is a laid-back joint with a snazzy interior reminiscent of an old-school diner, which reminds me so much of Grease – the musical, of course, not the stuff you find in your car engine!
Expect an eclectic mix of diner classics and midnight snack delights, including omelets, Benedicts, burgers, milkshakes, and the like.
In fact, it’s quite famous for the latter, not only for the perfectly creamy and irresistibly rich texture but also for the wide array of flavor choices.
There are the more classic ones like vanilla and chocolate, and the more unique options such as raspberry and butterscotch.
2. Elgin Street Diner
Website: https://www.elginstreetdiner.com
Address: 374 Elgin St.
Contact details: +1 613-237-9700
Operating hours: Open 24/7
Elgin Street Diner is where night owls, early birds, and everyone in between gather, as it is open 24/7.
Its homey ambiance makes it a nice hangout spot whether you’re catching up with friends or cramming a project due the next day.
I recommend trying the poutines, their best seller, because this is Canada, after all. And if the poutines are Canadian-approved, you know it’s good!
3. Kettlemans
Website: https://www.kettlemansbagels.ca
Address: 912 Bank St
Contact details: +1 613-567-7100
Operating hours: 24/7
Kettlemans is a 24/7 eatery with multiple locations across the city. Here, you can go to satisfy your bagel craving no matter the time of day it is.
The one on Bank St. is a personal favorite of mine, considering its accessible location and cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
As for their menu, it boasts a diverse assortment of flavors from traditional classics to mouth-watering sandwiches that will elevate your usual bagel experience.
I highly recommend the breakfast bagel. And if you know me at all, you’ll know I won’t be able to resist anything that has the word “breakfast” in it.
It features indulgent inclusions of bacon, egg, and cheddar cheese.
If you want something more exciting, consider the Reuben, an unconventional concoction that has Montreal smoked meat, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, honey mustard, and a pickle spear.
4. The Koven
Website: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qt71pwkHAg8KB62fA
Address: 93 Murray St.
Contact details: +1 613-422-5666
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 4 PM to 2 AM
The Koven is a unique addition to the ByWard Market for its rock-themed decor that creates an exceptional culinary journey.
Open until 2 AM, it’s a haven for late-night foodies seeking hearty meals in the midst of the eclectic ambiance.
For the best experience, make sure to try one of their many burgers. They have an abundance of creative plates that are sure to satisfy your craving for something savory after midnight.
5. Chez Lucien
Website: https://chez-lucien.weeblyte.com
Address: 137 Murray St
Contact details: +1 613-241-3533
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 2 AM
Chez Lucien is a nocturnal haunt for those who crave an American and Canadian fusion. Its facade certainly beckons to those looking for an intimate yet vibrant location to spend their after-dark hours.
They offer a broad range of delicious pub classics, including burgers, nachos, and poutine.
The nachos are considered the most popular out of the bunch, especially to bigger groups, considering their hefty portions, good chip-to-toppings ratio, and juicy, tender meat.
I find myself craving them whenever I want an indulgent and satisfying treat at night, and I’ve been there more times than I can count whenever I’m in need of a late-night snack fix.
And now that you know about this spot, you might find yourself becoming a regular too.
6. Meltwich Food Co.
Website: https://meltwich.com
Address: 381 Dalhousie St
Contact details: +1 613-212-5790
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 1 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 1 AM to 3 AM
Meltwich Food Co. is a Canadian fast-food chain renowned for its extraordinary grilled cheese and reputation as a late-night hangout spot.
What sets their grilled cheese apart is the wide variety of flavors available, ensuring foodies with every palate can find something that suits their taste.
The southern fried chicken melt is definitely a must-try if you were to ask me. It combines the tasty flavors of crispy southern fried chicken with gooey cheddar cheese that guarantees an explosion of flavors.
And for an irresistibly cheesy experience that’s over-the-top and absolutely indulgent, you have to try the monster melt. This decadent concoction features an Angus beef burger, mac & cheese, hickory smoked bacon, melt sauce, pickles, lettuce, and tomato.
7. Burgers N’ Fries Forever
Website: https://burgersnfriesforever.com
Address: 329 Bank St
Contact details: +1 613-230-3456
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM
- Thursday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 2 AM
There’s no name that’s more true than Burgers N’ Fries Forever. After all, who can’t say no to these irresistible classics?
Not me, that’s for sure. I’m just a mere mortal who’s a slave to these mouth-watering creations!
Anyway, before I write an ode to these culinary delights, let me tell you why this hotspot is one of the best late-night food spots in the city.
Its casual ambiance calls for a relaxed evening, and its indulgent offerings call for a satisfying culinary adventure sure to be one for the books.
The birria burger is exceptional, earning the top spot as a must-try here. It combines the robust flavors of the classic Mexican dish, along with the quintessentially American tradition of comforting burgers.
8. Buddy’s Fast Food
Website: https://www.buddysfastfood.com
Address: 853 Boyd Ave
Contact details: +1 343-254-5061
Operating hours:
- Monday – 12 PM to 3 AM
- Tuesday – 7 PM to 1 AM
- Wednesday – 11:59 AM to 1 AM
- Thursday to Sunday – 11:59 AM to 3 AM
With its unassuming facade and understated charm, Buddy’s Fast Food is easy to miss.
However, its irresistible menu will invite you to grab a seat and order delicious vegetarian delights. Yes, you heard me right!
Despite being a fast food joint, Buddy’s is 100% vegetarian, so you can expect a menu that caters to those with dietary preferences and restrictions, and diverse tastes.
I always find myself drawn towards ordering the Manchurian pizza for its fusion of spicy, tangy flavors that perfectly complement the savory cheese and crispy crust.
Oh, and do explore their Indo-Chinese menu for even more exciting flavors, that is if you still have room to indulge! If not, there’s always next time, right?
9. The Brig Pub
Website: https://thebrigpub.com
Address: 23 York St
Contact details: +1 613-562-6666
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 2 AM
- Saturday and Sunday – 12 PM to 2 AM
The Brig Pub is a hip enclave with a short yet sweet late-night menu.
I’ll do you a favor and clue you in on the best choice out of the bunch – the crispy chicken!
This delightfully juicy and tender southern-style delight is nestled in a brioche bun, along with chipotle maple emulsion, garlic aioli (always a nice touch!), pickled onions, and lettuce.
For the side dish, you can choose between fries or a salad.
They also have a variety of drinks to choose from, so you can find the perfect beverage to complement your meal.
Do note, however, that since this spot is a pub, it might not be ideal for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere for their late-night snack fix.
10. Mr. Fez Shawarma
Website: https://mrfez.square.site/#most-popular
Address: 129 Bank St
Contact details: +1 613-230-7077
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 3 AM
Mr. Fez Shawarma is a haven for late-night food enthusiasts seeking savory delights.
This is highly recommended for those who are intoxicated and seeking a satisfying bite to eat, and I speak based on experience!
Imagine me stumbling around Downtown Ottawa slightly buzzed, desperately seeking an appetizing meal to satisfy my after-drinking munchies.
Lo and behold, Mr. Fez was there to the rescue with their delicious Mediterranean classics.
And I was even more pleased when I ordered the shawarma burger because of the interesting medley of sauces like cheese sauce, garlic sauce, and cocktail sauce. It definitely was a burst of flavor in every bite!
11. Mati
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
For those seeking an upscale option to indulge in their late-night cravings, Mati has a seat and it has your name on it!
This sophisticated enclave with a lofty sense of elegance, offers decadent Modern European plates that aim to satisfy.
I imagine that a lot of diners here are those who’ve just finished a lovely date, perhaps watching a movie, and have come late at night for a deliciously refined bite.
Anyway, no matter what your mood is, I’m sure you’ll find their roasted truffle chicken to be exquisite.
That said, their charcoal-grilled meats are also tempting. I mean, just imagine the rich, smoky flavor of the Japanese wagyu and the Canadian prime, all enhanced because of the superb cooking technique!
12. Somewhere Dine Bar
Website: https://somewhereottawa.com
Address: 110 Murray St
Contact details: +1 613-562-7244
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 5 PM to 2 AM
Somewhere Dine Bar stands out for its charming and intimate setting, ideal for a cozy nightcap, and some tasty bites before bed, of course!
This hip locale is known for its polished French plates that know how to appeal to those with refined palates.
Think tenderloin steak, steak tartare, and oysters — a collection that’s the epitome of culinary sophistication.
Oh, and speaking of oysters, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser for their fresh, briny taste.
Honestly, I’m not an oyster fan myself, so let me recommend the rosé tortellini. This indulgent pasta dish comes with cheese tortellini, cremini mushrooms, rosé tomato sauce, fresh basil, parmigiano reggiano, and lemon ricotta cream.
I love the divine balance between tangy and creamy, creating an overall exceptional dish that you’ll want to write about – see, I already did!
13. Oh My Grill
Website: https://ohmygrill.ca
Address: 169 York St.
Contact details: +1 613-562-4545
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Wednesday to Friday – 12 PM to 1 AM
- Saturday – 1 PM to 1 AM
- Sunday – 1 PM to 11 PM
Oh My Grill is one of our favorite Greek restaurants in Ottawa, and by “our”, I mean my fellow nocturnal writers here at Best in Ottawa.
Their shawarma is definitely a delight to savor late at night, which is why it’s a popular choice among regulars.
That being said, what I usually find myself ordering again and again is the kabab sandwich, an interesting concoction with hummus, pickle, onion, tomato, and – drum roll, please – fries!
I think hummus is such a flexible dip that can truly transform something ordinary into something fantastic, which is why if I see it as an ingredient, I’ll be screaming ‘Sign me up!’
14. Father & Sons Restaurant
Website: https://www.fnsottawa.com
Address: 112 Osgoode St.
Contact details: +1 613-234-1173
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Tuesday – 8 AM to 12 AM
- Wednesday – 8 AM to 2 AM
- Thursday to Saturday – 8 AM to 1 AM
Located in Osgoode, Father & Sons Restaurant will make you say “All’s good in Osgoode” indeed!
This laid-back joint attracts a lot of late-night foodies looking for a hearty meal before bedtime, and who knows, you might just catch me here taking a bite of the deliciously decadent smoked meat poutine!
They’re also popular for their breakfast menu so consider checking them out in the morning as well!
I also love their rich selections of appetizers, which include onion rings, mozzarella sticks, and deep-fried pickles – all that greasy goodness!
15. Prohibition Public House
Website: https://www.prohibitionhouse.com
Address: 337 Somerset St W
Contact details: +1 613-565-2704
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 5 PM to 11:30 PM
- Friday – 5 PM to 2 AM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 2 AM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 11:30 PM
Prohibition Public House and its rustic charm invite patrons seeking a cozy wood-clad interior paired with delicious cocktails and hearty pub fare.
Its lively ambiance is the perfect retreat to late-night blues.
And to completely chase those worries away, their charcuterie is a steller menu item, which is why it’s a best-seller.
You can choose from an assortment of cheeses and meats to be paired with sourdough, crostini, compotes, and pickles.
For those seeking a refreshing flavor, the peaches on sourdough might be more up your alley, but it’s good for 3 to 4 people, so you might want to bring your friends for this round!
Aside from sweet local peaches, it also comes with lemon ricotta, hot honey, cashes, and sumac perfect for a delightful and satisfying after-hour meal.