Ottawa Bistros Restaurants

Harmony, balance, instinct, passion and an infusion of soul–this is the essence of Chef/Owner Derek Benitz's attitude in the kitchen.
He takes a contemporary approach to classic French cuisine, crafting innovative dishes from the freshest seasonal ingredients.
True to the original spirit of bistro dining, our accessible menu changes regularly to take advantage of seasonal offerings.
Co-proprietor Meghan McManus assures warmly efficient service to enhance your meal. Enjoy an intimate dinner for two, or bring a group of your favourite friends and family to the Chef's table.
Dine under the stars or enjoy the midday passers-by on Benitz's patio.
Derek Benitz is the former head chef of Social, Luxe, Cafe Spiga, and Fusion. He was a winner of the Gold Medal Plate Award, along with Rob Feenie, in 2004.

Biagio's has acquired a reputation not only for its ‘al momento' cooking philosophy but also for it's warm atmosphere and outstanding service. At Biagio's, the meals are prepared daily using fresh pasta, meats and market vegetables, tastefully presented and served by their friendly and attentive staff. Biagio's is recognized for their private rooms suitable for any occasion that can accommodate groups of up to 140 guests. Biagio's is located in the west end of Ottawa and provides ample free parking. Check out Biagio's interactive website where you can stay up to date on Biagio's events as well as book reservations, purchase gift certificates and browse their menus.

Let the sweet sound of jazz and Bayou blues transport you to the energetic French Quarter! Take the historic foundation of Creole Louisiana style cuisine and combine it with fresh local ingredients to create the most delectable flavor combinations. Fresh shucked oysters, Certified Black Angus steaks, fresh fish and seafood, all served with New Orleans flair.

Chef Ian G. Thomson, a Certified Chef de Cuisine (only 1,200 in Canada), wields his culinary magic in a décor inspired by the late fifties. An ideal setting for a night of fine dining with great entertainment. Chef Thomson's fare is true Bistro with a focus on quality produce, the preparation is classic French and the presentation second to none. Ask for our weekly Table d'Hotes and specials. The extensive wine list offers a great selection of well priced old and new world wines. 35 varietals are offered by the glass or half-liter. Our extensive bar inventory leads to creative cocktails and martinis. We also offer import and micro-brewery draft and bottled beer. As Ottawa's premiere live jazz venue, we attract a host of fine Canadian and American talent.
See website for details. Reservations recommended.
LUNCH: M-F 11:30 - 3:30 / Dinner: M-W 4:30-9 & 10:30pm Th-Sat

Located in the heart of the Byward Market, Empire Grill has become the city's most dynamic meeting and eating place. Head Chef, Jason Potvin, cooks from the heart with a memorable blend of bold flavours. Empire Grill is the only Gold Member Licensee of Certified Angus Beef in all of Ontario. This means that our steaks are aged a minimum of 28 days with standards of excellence in marbling, tenderness and flavor giving you that juicy succulent taste! Looking for a place to host your next corporate event or private dinner? Equipped with wireless internet access and audio-visual aids, Empire Grill's newly renovated Manhattan Room has taken corporate and private dining to a new level. This NY Inspired room is perfect for sit down dinners upwards of 130 people and stand up cocktail events for 250 people. An extensive wine list, martinis and a sexy décor makes Empire Grill the best of Ottawa's dining scene. For group reservations, please contact Melissa Greco melissa.greco@empiregrill.com

Located in the heart of one of downtown Ottawa's most popular streets, Fresco's on Elgin opened its doors in 1991. Over the years, we've changed the interior of the heritage building and even expanded to include a second floor, while striving to maintain what we do best - great food and excellent service. With the addition of the second floor dining room and wine bar as well as the renovated main floor bistro we provide an unmatched dining and entertainment experience. Fresco is a warm, welcoming, and contemporary neighbourhood bistro with personality and looks.

Grand Central New York Deli serves Ottawa's tastiest smoked meat in town. Done in-house and dry-cured this process produces the most flavorful sandwich that is guaranteed to please the pallet. They are also quickly becoming known for their Canada Prime Steaks. Whether your in the mood for a mouthwatering steak or sandwich or a jaw dropping salad your sure to find something that cures your cravings. Dont forget to try their 1lb slice of heavenly New York Cheescake!!!

For over 40 years, La Roma has maintained a reputation for excellence by providing time-honored Italian Cuisine in a warm and intimate setting. La Roma offers a wide variety of succulent dishes, an extensive Italian wine list, gracious service and dazzling décor. Join us for Lunch Monday-fridays and 7 nights a week for dinner. La Roma Restaurant Your home away from Rome...

Robin Bowen's interpretation of Canadian Cuisine takes diners on a culinary adventure of Canada's best products and flavors, focusing on local and fresh. Bowen takes the time to source out the most interesting and the highest quality products. Where the flavors of the Canadian Market are showcased with a menu reflecting the changing seasons and focuses on the simplicity of fine ingredients. Click Here to view the menu (PDF).

In Ottawa's premiere fine dining restaurant located in the Byward Market. Step into the flavour of New York and savour the tastes offered in the chic atmosphere of this Bistro Style Steakhouse. Our patrons can order Bistro favourites such as Steak Frites, Mariposa Chicken or a fresh selection from our Cold Bar. Savour these tastes during lunch, dinner and late night. Chef is Dan Campbell and Sommelier Neil Gowe have created an outstanding menu. Featured Martinis and Champagne cocktails offered late night on Fridays and Saturdays. Large lunchtime or dinner group? They can accommodate groups up to 60.