Ottawa perpetually plays host to a wide variety of people from across the world, whether they’re visitors or permanent residents. Lucky for us, Ottawa’s food culture has followed suit, boasting an incredible collection of restaurants and cuisines as diverse as its population.

That’s why we’ve put together our Ottawa Restaurants Guide — to help you find the best dishes from all corners of the globe prepared right here in our eclectic city.

In this edition of our Ottawa Restaurants Guide, we’re highlighting our favourite Italian-inspired spots. From Roman-style pizza to fresh, handmade pasta, the food these local Ottawa restaurants serve will make you feel like you’re dining in Italy.

Whether you’re here on business, leisure, or are an Ottawa local, read about our favourite Italian-inspired Ottawa restaurants here.

North and Navy

Located in the heart of Ottawa’s Centretown neighbourhood, North and Navy have established a faithful following by serving authentic Northeastern Italian cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients.

With a climate and farming season somewhat comparable to Italy’s Northeastern provinces, North and Navy have committed to only using in-season game, seafood, and produce local to Ottawa to recreate traditional Italian dishes.

Swing by North and Navy at 226 Nepean Street, just off of Bank Street, to dine indoors or on their patio from Wednesday to Sunday. Alternatively, order one of their Take-Home Kits for a cozy night at home.

Farinella

Farinella is one of Ottawa’s most unique and original restaurants. Situated at 492 Rochester Street, Farinella’s tagline, “Bringing Italy back to Little Italy” couldn’t be more true — their Roman-style pizza is some of the most authentic you’ll find across the country.

Founder and Head Chef Cesare Agostini traded Canada’s capital city for Italy’s when he moved to Rome to study the art of pizza making. He began his studies at the legendary Roman bakery Antico Forno Roscioli for what was only meant to be a two-week internship. Several years later, Cesare was still there and had become their Head Baker in the process.

After perfecting the nuances of making Roman pizza and baked goods, Cesare has since moved back to Ottawa, opening Farinella. Bringing his very own slice of Italy back to Canada, you can now enjoy Cesare’s thin and crispy Pizza al Taglio, as well as his delicious selection of baked goods and gelato, right here in Ottawa.

Town

Sandwiched between Ottawa’s Centretown and Golden Triangle neighbourhoods, Town can be found at 296 Elgin Street. Their no-nonsense approach to fine dining is a breath of fresh air, with an approachable philosophy of “good food, good prices, great location, grand times.”

Specializing in modern Italian cuisine, Town is a quaint bistro that relies on fresh, seasonal ingredients to play a starring role in both their dine-in and takeout menus. Open from Wednesday to Sunday, book a reservation at Town today or take advantage of their weekly-updated takeout menus and enjoy Town at home.

Orto Trattoria

At 151-C Second Avenue, Orto Trattoria is located in the heart of Ottawa’s The Glebe neighbourhood. Heavily influenced by the cuisine of Southern Italy, this Ottawa gem just off of Bank Street is run by head chef René Rodriguez.

O’rto, translating to “kitchen garden” or “vegetable garden,” coined its name through their use of typical Southern Italian produce and vegetables. With marinated olives, San Marzano tomatoes, seared scallops, and a rotating selection of seasonal vegetables on their menu, typical Southern Italian dishes are made with ingredients authentic to the region.

Make sure you add Orto Trattoria to your list of must-dine Italian Ottawa restaurants. Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., you can enjoy a meal indoors or on their stylish patio.

With so many amazing places to eat, drink, and shop in Ottawa, just visiting isn’t quite enough. If you’re thinking about joining us in Ottawa for some more permanent fun, let us know what your dream home looks like here. Then check out our current listings page to see what’s already on the market.