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The 6 Best Kosher Restaurants in Ottawa [2025]

  • Last updated: November 28, 2024

Ottawa’s best kosher restaurants serve delicious dishes that meet both your taste and kosher needs. Whether you’re craving classic Jewish cuisine or modern twists, these spots have something for everyone.

We’ve selected these top 6 based on great reviews, diverse menus, excellent service, and commitment to kosher standards. You can dine with confidence!

And if you’re still hungry, check out:

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Summary
What are the Most Popular Kosher Dishes?

Kosher dishes vary based on cooking styles and available ingredients, but some of the most popular include:

  • Cholent: a slow-cooked stew typically made with beef, potatoes, and beans. It’s often served on Shabbat (the Jewish Sabbath).
  • Kugel: a baked casserole made with egg noodles, vegetables, and sometimes meat.
  • Matzo ball soup: a chicken soup with dumplings made from matzo meal (unleavened bread).
  • Reuben sandwich: a sandwich made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing on rye bread.
  • Knish: a baked or fried pastry filled with mashed potatoes, meat, or vegetables.
  • Bagels and lox: a bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, onion, and capers.


These are just some of the delicious kosher dishes you’ll find at Ottawa’s best restaurants!

The Best Kosher Restaurants in Ottawa
Now that you’re familiar with some of the most popular kosher dishes, it’s time to check out the best places to get them in Ottawa!

1) Markie's Montreal Smoked Meat

Markie’s Montreal Smoked Meat Restaurant is the perfect place to go when you’re in the mood for some delicious smoked meat. The restaurant has been around since 1930, and it definitely has the history to back up its great reputation. 

The menu offers a wide variety of options, so whether you’re in the mood for a sandwich or some poutine, you’ll be able to find something that satisfies your craving. And best of all, the restaurant is only 15 minutes away from downtown Ottawa! 

So if you’re looking for a great meal that won’t break the bank, be sure to check out Markie’s Montreal Smoked Meat Restaurant.

Business Information:

markiessmokedmeats.ca
markies1679@gmail.com
+16137929191
1679 Carling Ave Unit E, Ottawa, ON K2A 1C4, Canada

Customer Review:
“This was the first ever smoked meat sandwich I've ever had and it did not disappoint!! The sandwich was delicious and juicy, and the fries were super crispy! The restaurant was also super clean - and the staff is really nice. If you’re in the area definitely check this place out!”
Pros
  • Renowned for its hand-cut traditional smoked meat sandwiches and french fries
  • Renowned for its hand-cut traditional smoked meat sandwiches and french fries Offers something for everyone and a modern, pleasant dining experience
  • The menu offers a wide selection of sandwiches, burgers, poutines, salads and much more
Cons
  • Some complaints that the meat was not properly cooked

2) The Red Apron

At The Red Apron, their menu changes daily, weekly and seasonally using ingredients that are sourced locally (when possible) and at their freshest! They are committed to making healthy and sustainable choices for their customers. 

This restaurant has a very diverse menu with options for everyone. Whether it’s their signature power cookie, muffin or one of your favourite lunch sandwiches they will be sure to please any taste bud! 

You can check their weekly menu on their website and try one of their amazing dishes Grilled Ontario Pork Loin with Chimichurri Salsa. So next time you’re looking for a quick, tasty and healthy meal make sure to swing by The Red Apron!

Business Information:

redapron.ca
info@redapron.ca
+16136950417
410 Gladstone Ave, Ottawa, ON K2P 0Z1, Canada

Customer Review:
“Great food! The delivery meal service is delicious and the portions are generous. A healthy, delicious, home-cooked meal without the work. Definitely recommend!”
Pros
  • Good sized portions, for the price
  • Lots of organic ingredients and fresh vegetables used in their dishes
  • Convenient location
Cons
  • The prices are on the higher side

3) Ottawa Bagelshop and Deli

At Ottawa Bagelshop and Deli, they bake their Montreal-style bagels that are completely free of soy, salt, and dairy. For 35 years they have been offering you a welcoming atmosphere, excellent service, and comforting, quality food. 

Their menu includes soups, salads, and pies like San Marzano tomato soup or smoked salmon salad. And their house roast beef and rosemary bagel are truly amazing and delicious. 

But what really sets this place apart is their commitment to quality ingredients and delicious tastes. So whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast or a tasty lunch, you’ll be sure to find something you love at Ottawa Bagelshop and Deli.

Business Information:

ottawabagelshop.com
info@ottawabagelshop.com
+16137228753
1321 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3B2, Canada

Customer Review:
“Great place for bagels, meats, cheeses and a variety of interesting products. Also has a kitchen serving hot food. I always stop here when in the area.”
Pros
  • Free delivery for orders over $100
  • Get 5% off your catering order when you pick-up in store
Cons
  • $10 delivery charge, for orders under $100

4) Oz Kafe

If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, look no further than Oz Kafe. This hidden gem is tucked away in a corner, with cozy leather booths and dim lighting that makes you feel like you’re in an old book page’s hiding spot.  

Their Beef Enright entree is amazing, and their potatoes are always perfectly cooked with a soft centre surrounded by lightly crisp shells. The broccoli is simple yet delicious as well. And don’t forget about those mouthwatering pieces of tenderizing beef! 

Whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine or a cocktail after a long day at work, Oz Kafe is the perfect spot to unwind and relax.

Business Information:

ozkafe.com
oz@ozkafe.com 
orders@ozkafe.com 
+16132340907
10 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S6, Canada

Customer Review:
“Excellent preparation, presentation and tasteful creative dishes... the atmosphere is just amazing and perfect for a romantic night... on valentines day, they did give a bag full of chocolates too... don't miss it…”
Pros
  • Reservations can be made online rather than calling them
  • Nice seating area with a good view
Cons
  • Closed Monday & Tuesdays

5) Fairouz Cafe

Fairouz Cafe is a warm and inviting cafe in the heart of Ottawa’s historic Byward Market. They offer a delicious food menu with something for everyone, as well as a unique wine list and expertly mixed cocktails. 

The appetizers are fabulous – we highly recommend their vegetarian Kibbeh, Chicken and Artichoke Manakeesh. It’s filling and the flavours are perfectly balanced. The mains are just as satisfying – order the fried Cauliflower and it’s crispy on top and tender inside. 

Overall, Fairouz Cafe is a great spot for a casual meal or night out with friends. And their prices are very reasonable, especially for the quality of food on offer. So if you’re in the Byward Market, be sure to check out Fairouz Cafe!

Business Information:

fairouz.ca
info@fairouz.ca
+16134227700
15 Clarence St., Ottawa, ON K1N 5P9, Canada

Customer Review:
“This place is fantastic. The food and service were absolutely perfect, but what is really unique and a gem to be discovered is the cocktail menu. ALL OF THE COCKTAILS are created with a deep connection with the middle east.”
Pros
  • Lots of seats
  • Upscale dining experience
  • Curbside pickup
Cons
  • Prices are on the higher side
  • Portions can be a bit small

6) Red Door Provisions

The Red Door Provisions is a charming café located in Chelsea, Quebec. The café is well-known for its delicious pastries, which include peach buns, homemade pop tarts, and other seasonal treats. The coffee is also excellent, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting. 

The founders of the Red Door Provisions originally started the business in 2012, when they relocated from Montreal to Chelsea. Their focus was on handmade jams and pickles, which were only available during the season. 

However, their products quickly gained popularity among loyal followers, and the business eventually expanded to include a café. Today, the Red Door Provisions is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a delicious pastry and a cup of good coffee.

Business Information:

reddoorprovisions.com
lauren@reddoorprovisions.com
kitchen@reddoorprovisions.com 
+16136956804
117 Beechwood Ave., Ottawa, ON K1M 1L6, Canada

Customer Review:
“My favourite neighbourhood coffee shop! Not only is the staff super friendly, but their coffee is superb as is their selection of goodies. I can always learn about new beans and brews as well. My favourite is the Honey-Lavender Latté and the Beechwood Grilled Cheese.
Pros
  • Offers a fresh, diverse selection of café breakfast and lunch options, including their beloved grilled cheese sandwiches
  • Offers a small craft beer and wine program, featuring products like Dominion City Brewing, Collective Arts and Hinterland
Cons
  • There is no information on the website about the price of some of the products
  • No delivery
FAQs About Kosher Food
Kosher refers to foods that are in line with Jewish dietary laws. Grape products must be made by Jewish people, Animals must be slaughtered humanely and drained of their blood. Seafood must have fins and scales. Shellfish and birds of prey are not allowed.
Kosher diets emphasize premium, healthy ingredients. But because kosher is not a cooking style, kosher products are not necessarily healthier or unhealthier than their non-kosher versions.
Because blood is drained from the animal, it tends to be healthier than non-kosher meats. Because kosher doesn’t refer to a cooking style or method, there often isn’t a difference safety-wise aside from preparation.
Kosher and halal food are both prepared in accordance with religious dietary laws. However, the two terms are not interchangeable. Kosher food is prepared in accordance with Jewish dietary laws, while halal food is prepared in accordance with Islamic dietary laws. As such, there are some key differences between the two types of food. For example, kosher food can be consumed with dairy products, while halal food cannot. Additionally, kosher slaughtering methods are different from halal methods.
Final Thoughts

Don’t miss out on Ottawa’s culinary delights just because you keep kosher. Ottawa’s top kosher restaurants offer a wide range of delicious options, from smoked meats to cozy cafes and bagels. They follow strict kosher rules while serving some of the city’s finest food. Make sure to visit these gems for a delectable kosher dining experience!

And if you’re looking just for a quick bite, don’t miss out on:

The Best Pizza Places In Ottawa
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