Ottawa Newbie

Calling all crepe, sandwich, and juice lovers! Sprint Snacks will sweep you off of your feet. This brand new family restaurant is serving up the finest healthy and tasty meals on-the-go. Their passion for food and blend of quality ingredients has allowed them to curate a menu that is super unique to the area. Located right in the heart of Sandy Hill, this is the perfect spot to grab lunch between classes or a quick coffee on your way to work. For their diners convenience, they are offering takeout, outdoor patio, and online ordering services.

We can’t travel to Europe, but we can enjoy the tastes of Europe at this local Ottawa shop! This expertly curated grocer offers imported international favourites, fresh goods, and an unbelievable hot lunch counter. This one-stop-shop is the perfect place to pick up dinner, shop the world of international cuisine, and even snag some items for your next at-home date night. Their flourishing background and ‘grandma-style‘ cooking will instantly make you feel like you’re right at home. Pop on your mask and duck into this European treasure.

Welcome to ByWard Market’s oldest bakery with over 30 years of history. This sweet paradise is home to some of the best treats in the city. Their DIY cookie decorating and paint kits are the perfect night-in activity for the whole family. P.S…they’ve also just launched their hot chocolate bombs (like bath bombs but more fun) which explode of flavour and appearance right in your cup! Visit their location or shop their online store for all of your sweet tooth cravings.

Skip the big chain stores and grab your morning cup of java at this small-batch coffee roaster! This Lowertown staple has been serving up their famous dark blends and mouthwatering eats for over a decade. Prefer making your own cup of coffee in the morning? They’ve got you covered! I Deal Coffee also sells their highly-regarded blends on their online shop. Check out their Instagram for daily updates and specials.

Order up! Welcome to one of the most authentic and highly-rated Middle Eastern restaurants in the city. Located right in the heart of Centretown sits Falafel Scoop. From stuffed falafel, to party platters, to even chicken fajitas- their menu is very extensive. On top of that, almost all of their dishes can be modified to be vegan or vegetarian! The freshness of ingredients and homemade flavors are what really sets this eatery apart from other fast-food spots in the area. Orders can be made online or by contacting the restaurant directly.

Mamma Mia! This Italian eatery has got it all. This delectable Little Italy restaurant has been serving up gourmet pizzas, seafood platters, mouthwatering pasta dishes for over 30 years!

Promo alert: From now until November 15th, 2020, La Favorita is offering BOGO 50% entrees. That’s right, bring your favourite pizza or pasta lover and get the second entree at half the price. Offer is valid on patio dining and pick-up orders.

This Little Italy addition is here to fulfill all of your Chai needs. Stay cozy this fall and sip on the best tea in the city! Tapri’s passion for cuisine is inspiring and evident in their unique dishes. They serve up the finest authentic Chai along with a variety of Indian cuisine inspired small bites. Connect with friends, take your tastebuds on a trip, and support local at this pop-up style eatery. Orders can be made via their online site! Check out their Instagram for recent updates and specials.

Calling all beer lovers! This one is for you. This Ottawa favorite is located in the heart of Little Italy and serves up over 200 kinds of beer! Their vibe has always been unique, but their approach to the pandemic has made it even better! They offer a massive open-air and heated outdoor patio as well as inside dining options in their spaced out and private booths. Soak in the beauty of their string lights and stained glass as you indulge in their always delicious beer and bites!

This quaint Wellington Street staple will transport you to France and Newfoundland. “Welcome to Petit Bill’s & Welcome Home!” is their motto and it has rung true since their opening 13 years ago. From lobster poutine to pecan burgers, their menu is experimentative and delectable. Their extensive wealth of wine knowledge has even earned them the VQA Award of Excellence. Cozy up on their outdoor patio or take your bites to go with their takeout menu!

Take your tastebuds on a trip to the Mediterranean at this nutritious and delicious vegetarian restaurant. Their extensive menu is jam-packed with fresh smoothies, big breakfasts, and many more dishes made fresh daily! Opening just 4 days before the provincial shutdown, this family-run hidden-gem is happily open and ready to serve up their exotic healthy plates. Be sure to check their Instagram for their highly-anticipated weekly specials!

Tickle your pallet at this creative small bite and microbrew restaurant. This unique bistro offers an ever-changing menu of daring dishes and high-quality tastes. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out their 3 or 4-course Discovery Menu. This foodie-friendly option gives you a taste of the Chef’s inspiration in a variety of surprise dishes. Their online shop offers on-site pickup or delivery.

Photos by Roland Bast

Step into the heart of Italy at this gourmet pizza and wine bar. Piz’za-za has been serving up the finest fresh and handmade dishes in Old Hull for over 25 years. From business meetings to wine tastings and everything in between, this is your spot. Support local and shop their famous pizza, pasta, and wine from the comfort of your own home on their online takeout shop.

Photos by Roland Bast