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The 16 Best Bars In Ottawa [2025]

Nestled along the scenic banks of the Ottawa River, Canada’s capital city boasts an array of bars that cater to every palate and preference. 

From cozy, historic pubs exuding old-world charm to sleek and modern mixology havens pushing the boundaries of drink innovation, Ottawa’s bar landscape has something for everyone. And if you’re looking to be charmed by more establishments in Ottawa, check out:

The 8 Best Brunch Spots in Ottawa
The 4 Best Horseback Riding Centres in Ottawa
The 8 Best Sandwiches in Ottawa
The Best Places to Roller Skate in Ottawa

Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the best bars in Ottawa, where exceptional libations, inviting atmospheres, and the warm embrace of Canadian hospitality come together to craft the perfect night out.

Summary

What Are The Most Popular Drinks To Order?

Navigating the choices at a bustling bar can be an adventure in itself. Amidst the spectrum of options, certain drinks have cemented their status as popular favorites, that includes:

  1. Margarita: A zesty blend of tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, often rimmed with salt. Refreshing and timeless.
  2. Old Fashioned: A true classic, combining whiskey, sugar, bitters, and citrus zest for an elegantly simple experience.
  3. Mojito: A tropical delight, fusing white rum, mint leaves, lime juice, sugar, and soda water for a refreshing sip of paradise.
  4. Martini: Epitome of sophistication, mixing gin and dry vermouth, garnished with an olive or lemon twist.
  5. Cosmopolitan: Vibrant and iconic, vodka, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and lime juice unite for a lively and colorful concoction.
  6. Whiskey Sour: A balanced fusion of whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup, celebrating Negroni: Bitter and bold, this Italian-born cocktail harmonizes gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth for a distinct and daring taste.

While these classics offer a comforting starting point, remember that bartenders worldwide are crafting new and exciting drinks that blend tradition with innovation. So, whether you’re seeking the familiar or the novel, cheers!

The Best Bars in Ottawa

Now that you know what drinks to order during your visit to these bars, continue reading to find your next favorite spot!

1) The Manx Pub

The Manx Pub stands out as one of Ottawa’s top pubs! Boasting a welcoming staff, an impressive array of wine and beer options, and mouthwatering dishes at affordable prices.

A beloved crowd-pleaser is pairing Wellington County Ale with the Lamb curry wrap. This delightful wrap features slow-cooked lamb bathed in a rich curry sauce, complemented by juicy roasted mushrooms and gooey melted cheddar, all snugly wrapped in a crispy shell and topped with a dollop of herbed sour cream. And let’s not forget about their fries—perfectly thick wedges with a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.

In essence, The Manx Pub offers a delightful experience where you can savor fantastic food and drinks alike.

Business Information:

manxpub.com
info@manxpub.com
+16132312070
370 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1N1, Canada

Customer Review:
“This is our favorite pub in Ottawa! Great food and beer selection, with amazing veggie options. We usually go for dinner, but had their brunch today (the Soho & Eggs Benedict) which did not disappoint.”

2) Bar Lupulus

Bar Lupulus is a fantastic restaurant known for its exceptional food and top-notch service. The staff members are not only friendly and approachable but also incredibly talented, guaranteeing a delightful dining journey from the moment you walk in.

Using only the freshest ingredients, they offer plates of varying sizes to accommodate any group size. Among their standout dishes are the pork tenderloin, braised pork shoulder, accompanied by sides like baby red cabbage, roasted cabbage, and blackened pear mostarda. And let’s not forget about their beer list—it’s hands down the best in town, boasting an array of awesome sours. As for cocktails, they’re both delicious and inventive, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your dining experience.

Business Information:

barlupulus.ca
info@barlupulus.ca
+16137594677
1242 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3A4, Canada

Customer Review:
“First time here and I was very impressed by the service, beer selection and menu. Our server took the time to explain each dish. The menu has lots of options (including vegetarian) but it's not overwhelming. The beers are excellent as well. Highly recommended!”

3) WARD 14

Ward 14 is a charming little spot tucked away in downtown, offering a unique mix of cocktails and beers. But it’s not just about the drinks—their collection of vintage goods, from decor to clothing, adds a special touch to the ambiance and might inspire some home decor ideas too!

Whether you’re planning a cozy date night or simply want to unwind with a drink in hand amidst quirky surroundings, Ward 14 has you covered.

Their cocktail menu features exclusive creations like the Empress of Elderflower, blending gin, lemon, cranberry, and sparkling water for a refreshing sip. And if cocktails aren’t your thing, fear not—their selection of craft beers and coolers is sure to hit the spot.

Business Information:

wardfourteen.com
+16134211446
139 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1R 7P4, Canada

Customer Review:
“Ward14 is definitely THE place to be, any night of the week. It’s always been a fan favourite for cocktails, cheap beer and trivia nights. I’ve been especially impressed with how they’ve evolved throughout the pandemic. With innovative solutions, such as a take out drink window, a stellar new patio and daily specials, Ward14 continues to be Ottawa’s diamond in the ruff. Check them out!

4) Level One Game Pub

Looking for a fun night out with your crew? Look no further than The Level One Game Pub! They’ve got you covered with over 1200 board games and a plethora of video game consoles to keep the fun going all night long. And when you need a break, their craft beers and cocktails are sure to hit the spot!

Hungry? Their menu has something for everyone, like the Big Mack Nacho loaded with tortilla chips, a four cheese blend, and savory ground beef, served with sour cream and pico de gallo. And let’s not forget about the drinks—their craft beer selection is top-notch, featuring gems like the Blueberry Blonde, a delightful blend of blueberry sweetness and ale.

Business Information:

levelonegamepub.com
+16136957529
14 Waller St, Ottawa, ON K1N 9C4, Canada

Customer Review:
“Great service, lots of food choices, good beer and plenty of games! Went with a group of four and had a lot of fun. We'll definitely be back soon. Great vibes.”

5) Belmont

Looking for a spot with tasty and inventive eats? Look no further than The Belmont! Their menu offers a wide range of dishes to satisfy any craving, and their cocktails are a hit with customers. Plus, the staff are super friendly and always happy to help with any questions you might have.

Be sure to try their famous Trini Doubles, featuring chickpea curry and house-made peppa sauce for a burst of flavor. Pair it with one of their seasonal cocktails like La Trou Gros for a delicious evening out. And don’t worry if you have dietary restrictions—they’ve got vegetarian options and can make modifications to accommodate allergies.

Business Information:

belmontottawa.com
info@belmontottawa.com
+16139793663
1169 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3X7, Canada

Customer Review:
“Amazingly great. Went there for a small birthday dinner and was blown away. Chill atmosphere, delicious and creative cocktails. The Trini doubles were great, and it just kept going. The beef bulgogi had home made Kimchi! Highly recommend it!”

6) Thr33's Co. Snack Bar

At Thr33’s Company Snack Bar, every dish is a tribute to our beloved city, Ottawa. We blend global inspirations with locally sourced ingredients to showcase the love we have for our hometown!

Instead of hefty portions, we serve up small, delectable dishes like gnocchi and halloumi, perfect for sharing with friends over drinks. And speaking of drinks, our cocktails are as imaginative as they come, with options like the Peanut Butter Old Fashioned and Cold Brew Martini. Come join us for a taste of Ottawa’s culinary spirit!

 
Business Information:

thr33sco.ca
contact@thr33sco.ca
+16134229300
589 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3T4, Canada

Customer Review:
“One of my favourite spots in Ottawa year round! Cozy in the colder months and a perfect patio for the warmer ones. Drinks, food and staff are all incredible. Amazing selection of gin and balanced cocktails. The menu has an array of delicious vegetarian options and with new items added frequently, I can’t help going back time after time. Could not recommend Thr33’s enough!”

7) The Keg Steakhouse + Bar

At The Keg Steakhouse + Bar, you’ll find top-notch customer service paired with mouthwatering steaks. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a casual night out, you’ll feel like a VIP here!

The dining experience is truly exceptional, surpassing our expectations every time. Their prime rib is melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the sides are always piping hot and full of flavor. Don’t forget to pair your meal with one of their classic cocktails, like the Old Fashioned. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

Business Information:

kegsteakhouse.com
kegcommunity@kegrestaurants.com
+16132418514
75 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5T2, Canada

Customer Review:
“We had one of the BEST Keg experiences here that we've had in a loooong time. Everything was so good and the portions seemed to be a lot better than we have had in the GTA for the past few years. I highly recommend this location.”

8) Carben Food + Drink

Carben, a cozy spot in Ottawa, is all about family and community support. Run by the dynamic duo Caroline & Kevin Ngo, they’re committed to dishing out fantastic food and top-notch service at prices that won’t break the bank.

Their tasting menu is an absolute delight, boasting mouthwatering dishes like Duck Tartare and Octopus that’ll leave you craving more. And don’t even get me started on their cocktails—each one is a perfect balance of flavors that you won’t want to miss out on!

Business Information:

carbenrestaurant.com
info@carbenrestaurant.com
+16137924000
1100 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2Y7, Canada

Customer Review:
“Food and service were both exceptional! Ordered some appetizers to share and our table absolutely loved both the pork belly and potato dishes. As for the entrées, the sablefish and chicken were both cooked to perfection. Will definitely be coming back soon!”

9) 10Fourteen

10Fourteen isn’t your average bar—it’s your ultimate go-to spot for chilling and unwinding in the city. Founded by a dynamic duo of local best friends, this place prides itself on its laid-back vibe and welcoming ambiance, ensuring you’ll want to return time and time again!

They’re all about serving up top-notch cocktails crafted with the freshest ingredients and pouring pints of the finest beers around. Be sure to give their Pink Cashmere a try—it’s a refreshing concoction of gin, hibiscus bitters, and prosecco that’s perfect for kicking off your evening on the right note!

Business Information:

10fourteenbar.com
info@10fourteenbar.com
+16134228610
1014 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2X9, Canada

Customer Review:
“Amazing atmosphere and staff, greeted at entrance and given menus and drinks immediately. Service was fast, efficient and warm. Absolutely loved the chicken nachos, its a MUST try on the menu. Old fashions done right and to perfection. You must try this place!”

10) Union Local 613

The fare and libations at Union Local 613 are absolutely stellar. Give the smoked duck confit, lamb plate, and northern Char a whirl—they’re all mouthwateringly good! Plus, the service is top-notch, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.

As for drinks, don’t miss out on their Leaves Turn Inside You cocktail featuring 8-year scotch, Sivo Amaro, cranberry mint shrub, and gomme syrup. It’s just one of their many inventive concoctions, all crafted with their homemade juices, pop syrups, and infusions. And let’s not forget about their fantastic beer selection too!

Business Information:

union613.ca
info@union613.ca
+16132311010
315 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K2P 0J8, Canada

Customer Review:
“Always amazing food and original beer selection with an incredible drinks menu that changes with the seasons. Top notch team, beautiful patio with stunning artworks by some of the best local artists this town has to offer.”

11) Mulligans Golf Bar

Mulligans has everything you need for a good time, all under one roof. From their artisanal cocktails to their inventive menu and top-notch golf suites, they’ve got you sorted whether you’re out socializing or just chilling indoors, practicing your swing!

Their cocktail lineup covers all the bases: citrusy, bitter, refreshing, sweet, and spicy. Try favorites like the Tigerius Caesar, Negroni, Mulligan Mule, and other timeless classics. And if you’re in the mood for something fruity, they’ve got three types of Sangria to choose from: red, blueberry lychee, and pineapple mango ginger.

 
Business Information:

mulligansgolfbar.com
+16134226333
201 Queen St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5C9, Canada

Customer Review:
“Fantastic atmosphere with welcoming staff and owners who are truly great at what they do! The food is outstanding, beer selection has a nice balance of craft and domestic. They are cocktail wizards pouring out some super tasty drinks. Most importantly, the golf is lots of fun and offers some challenging courses to navigate.”

12) Bowman's Bar & Grill

The team at Bowman’s Bar & Grill on Carling Ave are happy small business owners through and through. They’re all about serving up tasty food and offering a diverse selection of locally brewed beers, catering to everyone’s tastes!

Since opening their doors in December 2013, they’ve become a staple in the neighborhood. Their beer lineup includes fruity options like cherry or lime-infused brews. And if you’re feeling bold, give the Town and Country a try for something with a bit more kick.

Business Information:

bowmansbarandgrill.ca
+16136809339
1170 Carling Ave, Ottawa, ON K1Z 7K6, Canada

Customer Review:
“I was told this place had excellent food and an incredible variety of beer on tap and I was not disappointed. Don't let the street view pictures or small location fool you, this is a nice, clean, chill place to relax and enjoy amazing food and drinks. I had the pulled pork tacos and they were out of this world. Stop reading and try this place now.”

13) The Chateau Lafayette House

The Chateau Lafayette House in downtown Ottawa is a Canadian dive bar, and is the oldest bar in Ottawa. The original establishment was built in 1849, before Canada had become an independent nation; the bar has been preserving history ever for over 173 years!

They sell a variety of locally brewed beers from the Ottawa area, including a beer specifically made for them called “1849”. They also carry classic brands, on tap and in large bottles, and simple cocktails that you can pair with really tasty hand-cut fries, poutine, wings, and much more, all made from scratch. They also have daily live music, offering 10 shows per week, and no cover charge. It’s a great spot for a first date, or a one hundredth, and welcomes people from near and far.

Business Information:

thelaff.ca
orders@thelaff.ca
+16132414747
42 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S6, Canada

Customer Review:
“Fun place to go for drinks. They're open late nights every day, which is great for industry people when they get off work. Staff are very friendly and the prices are right. Good place to hangout. Open mike is fun on Tuesdays, gets a good crowd.”

14) Elmdale Oyster House & Tavern

If you’re in the mood for a truly local vibe, Elmdale Oyster House & Tavern is where it’s at. Swing by on a Saturday afternoon for a chilled craft beer from their ever-evolving tap lineup, all while grooving to some awesome tunes!

They’ve got you covered with a fantastic drink selection including cocktails, craft beer cans, and two rotating drafts. And with live performances happening almost every night, there’s never a dull moment here to keep everyone entertained!

Business Information:

barrobo.com
barrobo@queenstfare.ca
170 Queen St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5E1, Canada

Customer Review:
“A cozy place with a very interesting coffee menu (as well as cocktails and a rotating fairly local beer selection). Nice spot that can get full during live music events, but worth it!”

15) Avant-Garde Bar & Gift Shop

At The Avant-Garde Bar, you’ll find a diverse lineup of drinks, blending traditional Eastern European spirits with a wide range of North American liquors and delightful Italian coffee-based concoctions. And when it comes to snacks, they’ve got you covered with tasteful recipes crafted for today’s culture!

Their bar menu features an array of options, including wines, beers, martinis, liqueurs, and a variety of cocktails. Be sure to try their signature specials like the Red Eyed Hell, made with pepper vodka, or the Brizma, a refreshing mix of brandy, soda, lime, and lychee liqueur.

Business Information:

avantgardebar.com
info@avantgardebar.com
+16133218908
135 Besserer St, Ottawa, ON K1N 6A7, Canada

Customer Review:
“One of my favorite bars in Ottawa and it has a feel like very few have. It feels like you are in Russia and does absinthe in a traditional manner. The owner/bartender is a character and makes the experience feel unique.”

16) Pub 101

Tucked away in downtown Ottawa, Pub 101 is a warm and welcoming venue that captures the essence of a cozy British pub while buzzing with a lively energy. Its rustic interior adds to the charm, providing the perfect backdrop for enjoying a wide array of local and international beers straight from the tap, paired with a menu featuring comforting classics.

Whether you’re gathering around the bar, sharing casual bites with friends, or catching a game on one of their many screens, Pub 101 offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and the vibrant pulse of Ottawa’s city life.

Business Information:

pub101.com
info@pub101.com
(613) 562-4665
101 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 8Y3

Customer Review:
“Easily one of my favourite spots in the Byward Market. I’ll often come here for a cheap beer, cheap (and delicious) nachos, and even sometimes to work. Staff are all amazing, please make sure you tip them well! My bill is usually under $20 when I get a meal and a beer. 10/10”
FAQs about Bars

There are many different types of beer that people can order at a bar. Some of the most popular beers are Budweiser, Miller Lite, and Coors Light. These beers are all light beers, which means that they have a lower alcohol content than other types of beer. 

The cost of beer at a bar can vary depending on the location, but the average price for a draft beer is around $5.50. Bottle beers can cost anywhere from $4 to $8, and mixed drinks or cocktails usually cost $10 or more. Some bars may offer discounts on certain nights or during happy hours, so it’s always worth asking about specials before ordering.

In general, bars can open at 7am and must close by 2am. However, there are a number of exceptions to this rule. For example, bars can open at 6am on Saturday and Sunday mornings. And, some smaller communities have earlier closing times, such as 1am or midnight.

Bars provide much more than just drinks. They are a place to socialize, listen to music, and watch sporting events. In fact, many people go to bars specifically for these activities. Bars also provide a place for people to relax and escape from their everyday lives.

Conclusion

In the heart of Ottawa, 16 standout bars offer something for every mood. From historic pubs to trendy cocktail lounges, enjoy expertly crafted drinks, cozy vibes, and true Canadian hospitality. Whether it’s cocktails, fine wines, or craft beers, Ottawa promises a night out to remember.

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