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Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Downtown

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38 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Fauna restaurant
1. Fauna
4.7
Exceptional(1424)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary Canadian • Downtown
Booked 10 times today
fauna is about the things we love: eating and drinking with friends and family in a fun space. Our menu is seasonally driven and we support local farmers and producers wherever possible. We love the neighborhood and the space and are so happy to be open in Centretown.We like to have fun in the kitchen. We serve small plates so you can try more than one dish. We use local ingredients wherever possible. We’re inspired by where we live, places we’ve been and things we’d like to do.
A photo of The Vanitea Room a Tea Salon and Eatery restaurant
2. The Vanitea Room a Tea Salon and Eatery
4.0
Excellent(622)
Price: Expensive
• Breakfast • Downtown
Booked 4 times today
Welcome to The Vanitea Room, Ottawa's first opulent Salon de Te & Eatery. Specializing in a bespoke and creative approach to afternoon tea and brunch while offering gluten free considerations as well vegan accommodations- inclusive for all to indulge in. Feeling like a decadent brunch fit for royalty? Come spoil yourself in our all day brunch or our ever so popular bottomless prosecco and mimosas! Available from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-4pm. At Vanitea, we provide a timeless tradition done beautifully.
A photo of North and Navy restaurant
3. North and Navy
4.6
Exceptional(1820)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Downtown
Booked 27 times today
A Northern Italian kitchen inspired by the Bacari of Venice. Our menu is inspired by tradition and dictated by the quality and availability of ingredients. We play off the similarities between the climates of Eastern Ontario and Northeast Italy, and create our take on classic dishes made with seasonal game, seafood and vegetables. Plus, sometimes we’ll just add whatever we want.
A photo of Cocotte Bistro restaurant
4. Cocotte Bistro
4.3
Awesome(683)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown
Booked 45 times today
Meet Cocotte...A taste of modern authentic French cuisine Bubbles by the glass, locally sourced fresh ingredients, seasonal creations. Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a weekend brunch, treat yourself to delectable and visually stunning dishes inspired by French cuisine.
A photo of Wilfrid's Restaurant - Fairmont Chateau Laurier restaurant
5. Wilfrid's Restaurant - Fairmont Chateau Laurier
4.1
Excellent(1101)
Price: Moderate
• Unspecified • ByWard Market
Booked 6 times today
Wilfrid's is an award-winning restaurant in Ottawa offering a wide selection of culinary creations. Our Executive Chef and his team are famous for their superb selection of regional Canadian cuisine.
A photo of Mati restaurant
6. Mati
4.4
Awesome(187)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mediterranean • Little Italy
Booked 24 times today
At Mati, our menu offers a modern take on Mediterranean style crudo dishes and charcoal grilled steaks, showcasing the finest ingredients and technique.Indulge in our famous seafood towers or mouth-watering wagyu steaks and truly see what our menu is all about.Each dish is meticulously crafted, capturing the essence of the Mediterranean with modern touches. Complemented by inspired sides and accompaniments, our menu caters to a variety of preferences, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all.The Bar Menu - Cocktails and WineAt Mati, you’ll experience some of the finest craft cocktails in the city. High quality ingredients, craft ice, and beautiful glassware result in elevated cocktails that will leave a lasting impression on you and your guests.Our Sommelier curated wine list will have you exploring unique and exquisite wines from all over the world and some of the finest from right here at home.
A photo of Al's Steakhouse restaurant
7. Al's Steakhouse
4.7
Exceptional(513)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown
Booked 13 times today
Classic steakhouse meals define the cuisine at Al’s: certified Angus beef, fresh fish, a variety of delicious appetizers and salads fill the menu. It’s perfectly complemented by classic cocktails, an extensive wine list, and uncompromising service.Al’s is the first and only restaurant in Ottawa to cook its beef on live charcoal, giving steaks their distinctive signature taste. Al’s famous garlic salad dressing is included on a starter salad with most meals, and is bottled and sold in-house and in grocery stores throughout the city.Open daily for lunch and dinner Al’s has ample free parking, can host over 100 diners in private events, and features a menu that will satisfy all tastes.
A photo of Aiāna Restaurant Collective restaurant
8. Aiāna Restaurant Collective
4.9
Exceptional(499)
Price: Expensive
• Canadian • Downtown
Booked 3 times today
Driven to provide a dining experience unlike any other, Aiāna's cuisine reflects a harmonious balance between classic cooking techniques and contemporary recipes. Whether a memorable meal; handcrafted cocktail or a glass of carefully curated wine, Aiana delivers distinctly Canadian cuisine and impeccable hospitality – all from the pulse of Ottawa’s bustling downtown.
A photo of The Shore Club - Ottawa restaurant
9. The Shore Club - Ottawa
4.7
Exceptional(1689)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • ByWard Market
Booked 27 times today
The Shore Club Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge features the freshest seafood and tender steaks served in surroundings of understated luxury. Soaring ceilings, stunning original artwork and cool blue and green hues contribute to an elegant atmosphere that is second to none in Ottawa. Enjoy cocktails and appetizers in our signature lounge, or descend to our dining room to experience all our signature menu has to offer. The Shore Club is perfect for a casual, drop-in visit, or a long-planned special occasion. Allow our professional team to cater to your every wish.
A photo of Social - Ottawa restaurant
10. Social - Ottawa
4.6
Exceptional(1327)
Price: Very Expensive
• Bistro • ByWard Market
Booked 14 times today
Opened in the summer of 1999, SOCIAL was received as the perfect blend of restaurant and bar. It was envisioned as a place where guests could enjoy an evening drink without feeling obligated to order dinner too, but where a sizzling menu meant that food was always an excellent option.20 years later, SOCIAL continues to deliver. Known in the capital city for its ambiant and modern vibe, fifteen-foot ceilings, its secluded and beautiful courtyard patio, and gorgeous stone walls inside + out-- SOCIAL offers an unparalleled atmosphere for a sit-down dinner or some after-work cocktails. Guests can expect high-quality professional service and a menu to match, proving that SOCIAL is truly a downtown destination that has it all.Come enjoy the culinary experience given by our Head Chef Peter Schulz and his team. Find us on Wednesdays 6 to 9 for Live Music, and Sundays 5-8!

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • MikeVIP
    Toronto / Ontario •25 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    An amazing experience overall. Bar seats with attentive and informative service with Quinn. Superbly crafted cocktails made with slight adjustments to meet our tastes. The menu is limited but offers amazing tastes for every palate. Plates are shareable, food is expertly prepared and delicious. Butternut squash mezzaluna steals the show!
    More info
    North and NavyPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Downtown
    •
    4.6
  • HannahS
    Toronto / Ontario •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Cocotte Bistro was a perfect choice for our family holiday dinner. The menu offered multiple inviting options. All items that we selected were delicious. The friendly service was appreciated. We were delighted with our visit.
    More info
    Cocotte BistroPrice: Expensive• French• Downtown
    •
    4.3
  • MichaelVIP
    Ottawa •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    After 10 years, Fauna is still one of the best restaurants in Ottawa. The food, drinks, atmosphere and staff are all top rate. Do not miss out on this Centretown gem.
    More info
    FaunaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary Canadian• Downtown
    •
    4.7
  • Mireille
    Ottawa •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 19 Dec 2024
    We had an amazing experience at Mati. The food was incredible and the service was amazing. In particular, the owner was exceptional in his hospitality and making us feel welcomed and well taken care of. Will be my go to place.
    More info
    MatiPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• Little Italy
    •
    4.4
  • OpentableDinerVIP
    Ottawa •21 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 3 Dec 2024
    Afternoon tea was fabulous and so beautifully presented! Had the best time with my aunt and 2 sisters for a joint birthday celebration. Accommodated my gluten free allergies so kindly and the special touches with the flowers 🌸 everywhere! Even on the tower. We will be back for Valentine’s Day!
    More info
    The Vanitea Room a Tea Salon and EateryPrice: Expensive• Breakfast• Downtown
    •
    4

Discover best special occasions restaurants in Downtown

Discover the perfect dining destinations for special occasions in Downtown Ottawa, where each restaurant offers a unique blend of ambiance, service, and culinary excellence. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, enjoying a romantic evening, or organizing a memorable group gathering, Downtown Ottawa's dining scene catives with its diverse and upscale options. Guests consistently praise these establishments for their attentive service, exceptional food, and the ability to make any event feel extraordinary. The area is renowned for its beautiful settings, from charming patios to elegant interiors that enhance every dining experience. With a focus on satisfying a variety of dietary preferences and culinary tastes, these restaurants ensure every meal is not only delicious but also tailored to your celebration needs. Indulge in a culinary journey through Downtown Ottawa and make your special occasions truly unforgettable.

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