If there is one thing that Ottawa certainly has a lot of, it’s a massive collection of bars. In a city of students, government workers, and tourism- this is almost a necessity. The only problem- where is the best spot to go? Whether you’re a wine lover, beer fanatic, or cocktail connoisseur, there’s a spot for you! Here are the best spots to bar hop in our lovely capital city.
Preston in lovely Little Italy
Through the twinkling lights and sweet-smelling streets sits Preston in Little Italy. From cocktail bars to rooftop patios, and everything in between, Preston has it all. This area is perfect if you’re looking for a little bit of everything in your evening.
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Pub Italia– 434 Preston Street
On Tap: Beer lover? They’ve got you covered. This spot serves up over 200 different kinds of beer from all over the world! Still not sold?… They even have a Beer Bible to fill all of your beer-loving needs.
The Vibe: This is by far one of the most unique joints in Ottawa. Their decor is church-themed and flowing with stained glass, string lights, and religious art. It’s dimly lit in all the best ways making for a more intimate bar experience. Great for groups of friends or date nights!
Heart & Crown- 353 Preston Street
On Tap: Their extensive drink menu really covers all of the bases. From international wine to regional beer, to even sangria pitchers, they have something for everyone. Best part? They also have an awesome late-night eats menu that serves up your favourites until closing time!
The Vibe: Ireland is calling! If you’re looking for a solid classic pub scene, then this spot is for you. Their huge wrap-around bar, cozy decor, and comfortable seating make for a great spot to visit with friends, family, and loved ones.
Quaint and Swanky Somerset
Nustled between Bank and O’Connor sits a quiet, yet swanky Somerset bar scene. This stretch of bar-restaurants is situated in former historic homes. Being in such a classic setting, this creates a beautifully upscale, chic, and contemporary atmosphere. If you’re looking for a date night, celebratory evening, or even just a more upscale vibe, this ones for you!
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Buyers + Cellars- 327 Somerset Street W
On Tap: Wine, wine, and more wine. Take a trip around the world with their meticulously crafted tasting selection.
The Vibe: This boutique-style establishment masterfully specializes in all things wine. From tastings to curations, their relaxed and affordably luxurious space offers it all. Special attention is given to their atmosphere to create the ultimate tasting experience by neutralizing the air, using scent-free products, and implementing special serving practices. This spot is perfect for wine-lovers, special occasions, and date nights.
Mamma Teresa Ristorante- 300 Somerset Street W
On Tap: Authentic Italian at its finest! Wine, boozy coffees, and everything in between.
The Vibe: This classic Italian restaurant has been an Ottawa staple for nearly 50 years. Over the years they have attracted celebrities, authority figures, and Ottawans alike to relish in their European-style atmosphere. Their authentic decor, cozy house-like layout, and welcoming staff make you feel right at home. This location is perfect if you’re looking for a more quaint and longer-stay style spot to meet with friends, family, and loved ones. Sip on wine and nibble on bites all night!
Arlo Wine & Restaurant- 340 Somerset Street W
On Tap: Can you say vino? This wine bar serves up your favourite red, white, rose, and even sparkling varieties!
The Vibe: Sit back and sip on your favourites in this laid-back and relaxed setting. New to the area, this wine bar is quickly becoming a Somerset staple with its rotating menu, knowledgable staff, and tapas-style dishes. This spot is perfect after-work drinks, business meetings, or catching up with friends.
Bustling and Energetic Elgin
After what seems like forever, our charming Elgin Street is finally back in business and they are better than ever! This vast strip of bars from stretches from Laurier all the way to Gladstone. Throughout this sits bars and bar-restaurants of all styles, vibes, and crowds. This area is perfect if you are meeting with friends or a larger grouping of people as the options are (almost) endless!
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Deacon Brodies Pub- 247 Elgin Street
On Tap: This spot is a whiskey lover’s paradise. Their museum-like bar collection holds over 150 different types of whiskey from all over the world.
The Vibe: Scotland, is that you? With their cozy vibe inside and buzzing vibe outside, they really offer the best of both worlds. Their location is on the corner of Elgin’s hustle and bustle making it a perfect central spot to meet with friends and family.
The Waverley- 339 Elgin Street
On Tap: Their extensive menu is equipped with house cocktails, high-end spirits, beer, and wine. On top of that, they also have an awesome Happy Hour menu every day from 4:00-7:00 that features daily drink specials and half-price apps!
The Vibe: This bar-restaurant is uniquely somehow perfect for every occasion. Their atmosphere can best be described as a ‘social house’. Perfect for after-work drinks, birthday celebrations, or a night out with friends.
Sparks in Centretown
Convenient, central, and beautiful, Sparks Street’s bar scene is a classic favourite. This historical pedestrian-only walking street is lined with bars, restaurants, and attractions that are sure to fill anyone’s evening. Join along with fellow government workers, tourists, or bar-hoppers alike at this bustling and picture-perfect strip.
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Rabbit Hole- 208 Sparks Street
On Tap: If you’re looking for a great cocktail, then this is the place for you. Their stunningly high-end house cocktails are perfect for any occasion. Their mixologists are truly drink artists.
The Vibe: This bar is unlike any other. Fall down the rabbit hole into this beautifully intimate and historic venue. The top floor of which is an atmosphere that is cleverly brightened by string lights and a buzzing vibe. Venture downstairs for a polar opposite and totally unique cellar-like experience. This spot is perfect for an impressive business meeting, celebratory evening, or date night.
D’Arcy Mcgee’s- 44 Sparks Street
On Tap: All your favourites! Their extensive menu features both local and international beer, wine, and bar rail.
The Vibe: If you’re looking for a bar in the perfect Ottawa setting, then this is probably it. It is situated just steps from Parliament in the heart of downtown and boasts great views of Sparks Street, Fairmont Chateau Laurier, and Confederation Square. This is a great spot to kick off your evening with friends and family.
