Ottawa’s Culinary Stars Make National Waves
Four Ottawa restaurants earned spots on the prestigious 2025 Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list, highlighting the city’s growing reputation as a culinary hotspot. While the number dipped from six last year, the quality and innovation remain strong, with Atelier leading the local charge.
Atelier Tops Ottawa’s List at #41
Located in Little Italy, Atelier climbed to 41st place, praised for its inventive tasting menus crafted by chef Marc Lepine. Known for its minimalist décor and bold flavors, Atelier continues to captivate diners with over 40 meticulously themed dishes and plans to unveil a new menu format soon.
Rising Stars: Arlo, Riviera, and Perch
Arlo, a warm and inviting spot on Somerset Street West, jumped from 71st to 49th, thanks to chef Jamie Stunt’s playful Canadian cuisine and sommelier Alex McMahon’s natural wine selections. Riviera on Sparks Street, a favorite among politicians and locals, slipped to 88th but still boasts Canada’s best restaurant bar. Perch, an intimate tasting-menu restaurant on Preston Street, returns at 95th after a brief absence, showcasing chef Justin Champagne-Lagarde’s refined culinary artistry.
Notable Absences and Shifting Tastes
This year, North & Navy, Supply and Demand, and Buvette Daphnée dropped off the list, reflecting the dynamic nature of Ottawa’s dining scene. Meanwhile, Toronto and Montreal continue to dominate the national rankings, but Ottawa’s presence signals a vibrant and evolving food culture.
Canada’s 100 Best: A National Culinary Snapshot
The 2025 list, compiled from votes by 160 culinary experts, celebrates restaurants excelling in food quality, service, and atmosphere. Ontario leads with 40 restaurants featured, followed by Quebec and British Columbia. The top spot went to Restaurant Pearl Morissette in Jordan Station, Ontario, praised for its farm-to-table excellence.
Bottom line:
Ottawa’s four standout restaurants prove the city’s culinary scene is thriving and ready to compete on Canada’s biggest stage. Whether you’re a local or visiting, these eateries are must-try destinations for 2025.
