Want delicious French food in Ottawa? You’re in luck! There are many great French restaurants here, with yummy dishes like coq au vin and duck confit. Whether it’s a romantic night out or just treating yourself, we picked eight of the best French spots.
From cute bistros to cool wine spots, there’s something for everyone. So, if you want tasty French food in Ottawa, try these awesome places. Enjoy!
And for more amazing food options in the city, don’t miss the best Filipino, the best Italian, the best Korean BBQ, the best dim sum, the best Japanese, the best Lebanese or the best Indian restaurants in Ottawa!
What Are Most Popular French Dishes?
Here are some popular French dishes:
- Coq au Vin: Chicken cooked in red wine with mushrooms and onions.
- Croissant: Flaky, buttery pastry often enjoyed for breakfast.
- Escargot: Snails cooked in garlic butter, a delicacy.
- Ratatouille: Vegetable medley stew with tomatoes, eggplant, and more.
- Bouillabaisse: A flavorful fish stew with various seafood.
- Quiche Lorraine: Savory pie with eggs, cream, bacon, and cheese.
- Beef Bourguignon: Beef stew cooked in red wine with vegetables.
- Crème Brûlée: Creamy dessert with a caramelized sugar top.
- Baguette: Iconic long and crusty French bread.
- Steak Frites: Grilled steak served with crispy fries.
- Duck Confit: Duck leg slow-cooked in its own fat until tender.
- Tarte Tatin: Upside-down caramelized fruit tart, often with apples.
These are just a few examples of the delicious French dishes enjoyed worldwide.
The Best French Restaurants in Ottawa
1) Ratatouille Bistro
Chef Sourabh Kumar is the magic behind Ratatouille Bistro’s flavors. With twelve years of experience, he’s cooked in top places around the world. Trained by Master Chef James Parsons, Sourabh’s skills cover French, Asian, Canadian cuisine and Mediterranean cooking, using local ingredients.
Ratatouille Bistro isn’t just a restaurant – it’s a taste adventure. Chef Sourabh mixes memories, comfort, and elegance in every dish. This hidden gem combines amazing food with fresh takes on French classics. Get ready for a meal that’s both delicious and delightful, thanks to Chef Sourabh’s touch of culinary genius.
Business Information:
ratatouillebistro.ca
+16136955785
278 Dalhousie St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7E6, Canada
Customer Review:
Pros
- Twelve years of experience
- French, Asian, Canadian cuisine and Mediterranean cooking
- Local ingredients
- Fresh takes on French classics
Cons
- Closed on Mondays
2) FRASER
FRASER is a haven where flavors shine. Step in for positive vibes and a great atmosphere.The menu carefully crafted for delicious harmony. Taste the care in every bite – fresh ingredients and expert hands make it shine. FRASER is more than a restaurant – it’s a cozy escape, like a slice of Europe in Ottawa.
Try the roasted beet salad with avocado crema – it’s a winner! Excellent service matches the food – simply outstanding. Prices are reasonable, around $200 for a full meal with drinks. For a special night or any occasion, FRASER is a must. It’s not just delicious food; it’s pure magic!
Business Information:
fraserrestaurant.ca
+16137491444
7 Springfield Rd, Ottawa, ON K1M 1C8, Canada
Customer Review:
Pros
- Excellent service
- Reasonable prices
- Fresh ingredients and expert hands
Cons
- Closed on Mondays
1) Le St. Laurent
Le St Laurent is a modern French restaurant located in the heart of downtown. It’s run by Ryan Edwards, who has been cooking for years and uses his experience to create innovative dishes using locally sourced ingredients like produce or meats from our very own farms!
The menu changes frequently but you can expect creations such as braised beef short rib with mushrooms served over pureed cauliflower and broccoli vegetables that will make your taste buds happy. You can also try Albacore tuna crudo with warm olives and pistachios which create a complex and delicious taste.
Business Information:
lestlaurent.ca
info@lestlaurent.ca
+16134211444
460 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON K1K 4Z2, Canada
Customer Review:
Pros
- Attentive staff
- Restaurant has a gorgeous view of Ottawa
Cons
- Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
2) Petit Bill's Bistro
With its extensive menu full of comfort food and delicious entrees, there’s something to suit any appetite at this local hotspot. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy steak or some fresh, crisp fish, their kitchen always has the highest quality ingredients at hand, including those sourced locally whenever possible.
So whether you’re stopping by after work with your coworkers or coming in to unwind with friends on the weekend, you can be sure that your meal will be pure satisfaction from start to finish.
And if you still have room for dessert, the homemade pies and cakes are the perfect way to cap off a great meal. So why wait? Head on down to Petit Bill’s Bistro today and treat yourself to some truly amazing cuisine!
Business Information:
petitbillsbistro.com
petitbillsbistro@gmail.com
+16137292500
1293 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3B1, Canada
Customer Review:
Pros
- Dishes are always well-prepared
- The owner occasionally personally attend to guests
Cons
- Closed on Mondays
3) Gitanes
Gitanes French restaurant is the perfect place for a romantic evening. The prices are reasonable and you can enjoy their cuisine with your significant other or friends! The atmosphere inside is amazing too and the staff are attentive and caring.
Their duck dishes are perfectly cooked and paired well with the red wine. The beef tartare appetizer comes in a flawless slice of brioche, which is especially delicious when dipped into its yummy sauce.
You can also try oysters —they are really fresh. They truly will bring you into the world of wonderful service and food!
Business Information:
gitanes.co
info@gitanes.co
+16135620699
361 Elgin St Unit #6, Ottawa, ON K2P 1M7, Canada
Customer Review:
Pros
- Great date spot
- Wonderful service and food
Cons
- Opens late in the afternoon (5 pm)
4) Les Moulins La Fayette
Moulins La Fayette provides a wide range of food options to suit any need. Whether it’s for an office party or family reunion, they can help you out! They also provide catering services which means their clients never have to leave their guests hungry.
They offer options for you and your guests like Sandwiches with cheese and meat, appetizers salad bar with raw vegetables to boot! All this will make it hard not to be satisfied by the end of dinner. They also specialize in savoury pies like shepherds or vegetarians.
Business Information:
lesmoulinslafayette.com
+16136805653
1000 Wellington St. W #103, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2X9, Canada
Customer Review:
Pros
- Lovely neighbourhood bakery
- Offers a wide variety of French pastries
Cons
- Closed on Mondays
5) Chez Lucien
Chez Lucien is a cozy bar bistro on the corner of Byward Market that serves fresh local food and craft beer. It’s been gaining popularity for its appetizing dishes such as mussels cooked in cream sauce, shaved brussels sprouts with bacon fat, and other tasty treats!
The salmon burger is our personal favourite–it’s huge and cooked to perfection, and the tofu one is also great for veggie-lovers. With huge portions of salad, fries or other sides such as onion rings–you’re set for a great dinner date.
So if you’re looking for a relaxed but still upscale atmosphere to enjoy a meal with friends or a romantic partner, definitely check out Chez Lucien!
Business Information:
instagram.com/chezlucienottawa
+16132413533
137 Murray St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5M7, Canada
Customer Review:
Pros
- Open till late in the evening (2 am)
- Serves craft beer
Cons
- rices are on the higher side
6) Benny's Bistro
Benny’s Bistro is a great place to get a taste of France. The bistro takes pride in its French heritage and serves up delicious food that is good for your health. The commitment to this philosophy is shown by how many natural ingredients they use.
The mushroom dish and the smoked salmon are both amazing! And the black peppercorn parfait is really soft and rich in flavour. So if you ever get a chance, stop there for some of this delicious food. You won’t be disappointed!
Business Information:
frenchbaker.ca
thefrenchbakerottawa@gmail.com
+16137896797
119 Murray St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5M5, Canada
Customer Review:
Pros
- Upscale spot for brunch & lunch
- Stylish dining interior
Cons
- A few complaints about slow service
FAQs about French Restaurants
Conclusion
Discover Ottawa’s French culinary treasures! These eight high-end restaurants epitomize the best of French bistro charm, offering delicious and authentic dishes. Whether you crave the typical French bistro vibe or seek an amazing high-end experience, these spots deliver. Treat your taste buds, immerse in fantastic atmospheres, and find your favorite among these hidden gems!
