Mouth-watering Italian eateries in Ottawa
Italian culture is so prominent in Ottawa that there is even a stretch of town dedicated solely to the sights, sounds and tastes of Italy. Little Italy, located on Preston Street, just west of Downtown, has an abundance of glorious Italian hotspots and delicious eateries to please the senses. And although there are many fine restaurants in Little Italy, you can also find Italian dining scattered throughout the city.
Vittoria Trattoria
35 William St, Ottawa ON K1N 6Z9A trattoria is less formal than a ristorante. That is what makes Vittoria Trattoria an ideal spot for those who want some authentic Italian cuisine but don’t want to pay authentic Italian prices. This location in the ByWard Market also offers a group menu for lunches, making it an ideal office lunch location.
Di Rienzo´s
111 Beech St, Ottawa ON K1S 3J9Although this isn't a sit-down restaurant, it's a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a good Italian sandwich. Di Rienzo's has been family-run for decades and continues to be infamous among the locals. Pick out a freshly baked bun, and then ask the folks to make a magnificent sandwich with fine Italian meats, cheeses and toppings. For around five bucks a sandwich, visitors can't go wrong.
Pub Italia
434 Preston St, Ottawa ON K1S 4N4If you want a seat on this beautiful patio in the summer months, you had better get there early. This beautifully designed and decorated restaurant is located in the heart of Little Italy, and it offers a 'Beer Bible' of hundreds of different beers, separating them from the competition. The authentically prepared Italian dishes will ensure repeat visits.
Flying Piggy's Bistro Italiano
1665 Bank St, Ottawa ON K1V 7Z2Due to the quaint size and the welcoming staff, every meal at Flying Piggy’s feels like an authentic dinner at Grandma’s. With multiple mouth-watering specials changing frequently, this eatery will never let visitors run out of things to try. It also boasts a thorough wine menu and knowledgeable wait staff who will assure guests the perfect pairing to a meal. On the weekends, it’s probably not a bad idea to call for a reservation.
Giovanni's Restaurant
362 Preston St, Ottawa ON K1S 4M7Billing itself as the best Italian restaurant in Ottawa, Giovanni assures its guests that time here will be well spent. Ideal for an important date or a romantic anniversary dinner, there is something on the menu for everyone here. A wide variety of scrumptious soups and appetizers will have guests throwing in the napkin before the main course even arrives.
Johnny Farina Restaurant
216 Elgin St, Ottawa ON K2P 1L7Located on trendy Elgin Street, Johnny Farina has grown quickly into a household name in Ottawa. It's famous for its wood-oven pizza but is probably just as well known for those signature pasta dishes. No matter your preference in Italian food, you’ll find what you're looking for here. What makes Johnny Farina different from the competition is its hugely popular deli open during weekday lunch hours.
The Prescott
379 Preston St, Ottawa ON K1S 4N1The Prescott is an ideal location for those craving Italian but don't feel like going out for a fancy dinner. The pub atmosphere is home to the most infamous meatball sandwiches in Ottawa, and it's a must-try for any visitor. Also billing itself as 'the home of square pizza,' The Prescott loves to show how there is something for everyone, including kids. This Ottawa staple in the heart of Little Italy has been doling out Italian goodies since 1934.
