Looking to discover the best cafes in Ottawa, that not only serve delightful brews but also offer Instagram-worthy settings? I’m always on the lookout for cute spots to check out in the city. Adventure through Ottawa’s vibrant cafe scene, where every sip is a journey and every corner is a perfect photo opportunity!
For the residents and visitors of Ottawa — a city brimming with culture and charm — no day is complete without a comforting cup of coffee or a yummy dessert. If you’re one to appreciate the finer points of a well-brewed bean and the ambiance that elevates your café experience to an art form, then here’s your guide to the some of the best cafes in Ottawa for foodies and Instagrammers alike.
Here’s our list of the Best Cafes in Ottawa:
1. Wise Town Cafe
Located downtown, close to City Hall, Wise Town Café awaits, ready for you to sit and enjoy. This café promises a delightful experience the moment you step through its doors-Bonus: It’s dog friendly!
With lots of seating and pretty decor, this Café offers a haven of tranquility, you’ll forget your downtown. With a wide range of menu offerings – from an extensive coffee list, their own tea selections, sandwiches and desserts- You’re sure to find something to satisfy your tastebuds.
The cafe is open from morning to night, and has weekly events to bring together the community. There’s even a small section with games and books for visitors to relax and enjoy. When you go, make sure to get their rewards card to receive 10% off your first order and get a free coffee after your 10th visit!
Check out my full review of this cafe here!
Location: 329A Elgin Street (downtown)
Website
2. Ritual on Main
If you’re in the West End make sure to check out Ritual on Main in Stitsville!
Grab a seat and cozy up to their expansive selection of hot and cold drinks. From freshly brewed coffee for a gentle start to your mornings, to breakfast sandwiches, scones, cakes and much more!
With lush greenery, coupled with charming decor, and ambient lighting, this cafe is a haven of warmth and creativity. Adorable fixtures adorn the space, telling a tale of inspired design. Whether you’re going solo or a place to gather with friends, the ample indoor and outdoor seating makes it the perfect spot for everyone.
Bonus: This place is dog friendly AND serves ice cream!
Location: 4-1510 Stittsville main (StITTSVILLE)
3. Cafe Latte Cino
With its cozy atmosphere and GIANT menu of drinks, food and desserts you’ll want to head out to the East end! Whether you’re in the mood for a rich and robust coffee or a refreshing iced tea, you’ll find that the quality here is always top-notch. Their desserts and sandwiches are also highly recommended for a complete bistro experience-There’s even Gelato!
In the summer, enjoy their patio and tent for additional seating, so you can enjoy rain or shine!
They also offer a reward system, so you’ll have a good excuse to head back and try more on their menu. You can also do catering for your next event!
Bonus: There’s a mini gift shop with local suppliers, so you can shop and dine at the same time!
Location: 2020 Tenth Line RD. (ORLEANS)
4. Beyond Cafè
Step back into yesteryear at this cafe, adorned with vintage floral wall decor, pin-up photos, and even a grand piano!
Featuring an expansive drink menu including Persian-inspired beverages and an array of food, prepare for a taste sensation that will delight your palate. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, sweet treats, or baked delights, deciding what to choose will be a delightful challenge!
Whether you decide to bring that special someone or friend, you’ll want to share in the experience. Their tea, served in an elegant acrylic teapot, is perfect for two.
The cherry on top? They offer High-Tea service on weekends!
Location: 2701 St. Joseph BLVD. (Orleans)
5. Dessert First
Indulge yourself at Dessert First, a sweet sanctuary that knows how to satisfy every sugar craving.
This cafe stands out with its visually stunning desserts, delightful breakfast menu (featuring homemade English muffins) and even custom-cakes! The urban chic setting, enhanced by plush velvet seating and enchanting floral walls, provides a delightful backdrop for a girls’ outing or a romantic date.
Dessert First is your go-to spot for treating yourself or for picking that perfect celebratory cake.
Location: 1071 bANK street & 350 bAY sTREET
WEBSITE
6. Boho Latte
Step into Boho Latte, a charming spot nestled between Ottawa South and Downtown, showcasing a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
Indulge in their signature espressos, rich lattes, or handcrafted cappuccinos. Complement your hot beverage with delectable treats such as delicious pastries, fresh sandwiches, salads, and more!
Whether you’re seeking a morning boost or a midday break, Boho Latte offers the ideal ambiance for a memorable coffee experience.
Location: 1571 Bank Street (Ottawa South)
7. Tartlette
Voted 2024 Ottawa’s Best Bakery, you’ll want to check out this cafe and their gorgeous baked goods!
This cafe features one of a kind tarts will give your tastebuds an enchanting sensation! Along with tarts, they serve cheesecakes, croissants and other baked goods! Even their coffees are fancy-featuring a 24-carat cappuccino and saffron rose latte!
This cafe is sure to lure you coming back for more.
Location: 175 Main Street
WEBSITE
8. Dao
This Euro-Asian-inspired café offers delicious drinks, savory baked goods, and mouth-watering desserts.
Their locations have big windows and feature beautiful floral arrangements hanging from the ceiling. The menu is constantly fresh and evolving, including dessert macarons, cakes, specialty croissants, Mochi Donuts, and much more! Additionally, they serve fresh fruit premium teas, cheese cap teas, matcha teas and lattes, specialty coffees, and pour-overs.
You’ll definitely want to bring a friend so you can try a few things!
Location: 102-1558 Merivale RD. & 1930 INNES RD.
9. Luxe Blooms Flower Cafe
Luxe Blooms Flower Cafe brings the magic of flowers with a beautifully decorated pink interior!
From pink hot chocolate to their alcoholic drinks, everything served here is Insta-worth! Their food menu consists of croffles, croissants, sandwiches and desserts…Even their hummus is pink!
This is the ultimate girls’ date and you can even host your own event!
Location: 254 DalhousiE Street(Downtown)
WEBSITE
10. Drip House
If you’re a connoisseur of the art of coffee, Drip House will welcome you with open arms.
Known for their slow-drip coffee method, the flavors here are as refined as the brewing process. They also offer all day breakfast, sandwiches, and avocado toasts!
Their Chinatown location reopens late Wednesday to Saturday, so you can go there at night to experience their nightlife!
Location: B-340 Parkdale St. & 692 Somerset ST. W. & 121 Parkdale st. (Downtown & Centertown)
11. Cafe Cristal
This pretty cafe located in Barrhaven is a must if you’re in the area!
Featuring chandeliers, a fireplace and opulent mirrors, this cafe is sure to make you feel like your in France!
Take your pick from a selection of mezze platters, paninis, and salads, and savor a signature cocktail on their charming patio. End your meal with a rich tiramisu for the full experience.
Bonus: They offer high-tea!
Location: 240 Kennevale Dr. (Barhaven)
12. Honey Coffee Bar
Tucked away in Stittsville, Honey Coffee Bar not only offers great coffee but a warm, inviting space for everyone.
The industrial chic design makes it a hotspot for urban photography buffs. With a floral and greenery ceiling when you’re inside to the patio with lots of seating, so you can enjoy your Ice Coffee in the summer months outside! Their sandwiches are tasty and if you’re not in the mood for coffee, check out their other drinks like their Italian sodas and smoothies.
This isn’t just a spot for mornings either-This cafe turns into a bar every Thursday and Friday starting at 5pm! They also host private events!
Location: 1564 Stittsville main ST. (Stittsville)
Time to Choose!
If you’re seeking the perfect spot in Ottawa, our city’s cafes offer more than just great coffee. Create picture perfect memories all over the city. Whether you crave a quiet moment, top-notch brews, an inspiring workspace, or even somewhere pretty to go with your friends, Ottawa’s cafes have it all.
So, which of these cafes do you think is the best cafe in Ottawa?
*This article will be updated and revised. Please check back soon for updates!
