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?
- The Best Bars in Ottawa
- 1) The Manx Pub
- 2) Bar Lupulus
- 3) WARD 14
- 4)Level One Game Pub
- 5)Belmont
- 6) Thr33’s Co. Snack Bar
- 7) The Keg Steakhouse + Bar
- 8) Carben Food + Drink
- 9) 10Fourteen
- 10) Union Local 613
- 11) Mulligans Golf Bar
- 12)Bowman’s Bar & Grill
- 13) The Chateau Lafayette House
- 14) Elmdale Oyster House & Tavern
- 15) Avant-Garde Bar & Gift Shop
- 16) Pub 101
- FAQs about Bars
- Conclusion
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:
- Margarita: A zesty blend of tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, often rimmed with salt. Refreshing and timeless.
- Old Fashioned: A true classic, combining whiskey, sugar, bitters, and citrus zest for an elegantly simple experience.
- Mojito: A tropical delight, fusing white rum, mint leaves, lime juice, sugar, and soda water for a refreshing sip of paradise.
- Martini: Epitome of sophistication, mixing gin and dry vermouth, garnished with an olive or lemon twist.
- Cosmopolitan: Vibrant and iconic, vodka, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and lime juice unite for a lively and colorful concoction.
- 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
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:
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:
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:
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:
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:
6) Thr33's Co. Snack Bar
Business Information:
thr33sco.ca
contact@thr33sco.ca
+16134229300
589 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3T4, Canada
Customer Review:
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:
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:
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:
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:
11) Mulligans Golf Bar
Business Information:
mulligansgolfbar.com
+16134226333
201 Queen St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5C9, Canada
Customer Review:
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:
13) The Chateau Lafayette House
The Chateau Lafayette House, nestled in downtown Ottawa, is your quintessential Canadian dive bar known for crafting its own brews. This historic gem has been around since Canada’s early days as an independent nation, holding onto its rich heritage with pride!
They’re also stocked with a selection of locally brewed beers from the Ottawa area, including their signature brew “1849”. And while you sip on their fantastic drinks, don’t forget to indulge in their delicious sweet potato fries and wings. With great tunes, sports on TV, and special event nights, there’s always something fun happening at this lively spot!
Business Information:
thelaff.ca
orders@thelaff.ca
+16132414747
42 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S6, Canada
Customer Review:
14) Elmdale Oyster House & Tavern
Business Information:
barrobo.com
barrobo@queenstfare.ca
170 Queen St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5E1, Canada
Customer Review:
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:
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:
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
Right in the center of Canada’s capital, Ottawa, you’ll find a diverse array of bars waiting to cater to your every mood and craving. From charming historic pubs to trendy cocktail spots, these 16 exceptional bars invite you on a memorable adventure filled with delicious drinks, cozy vibes, and genuine Canadian hospitality. Whether you’re in the mood for expertly crafted cocktails, elegant wines, or unique craft beers, Ottawa’s bar scene guarantees an unbeatable night out tailored to every taste.
