This article highlights twelve must-visit steak restaurants in Ottawa, picked for every type of steak lover.
These restaurants were chosen not only for their delicious steaks but also for the cool dining experiences they provide. So, why not challenge yourself to try them all?
Grab some friends or family and go on a steak adventure in Ottawa. Your taste buds will be so grateful! Get ready to explore, taste, and enjoy every bite.
1. Harmons Steakhouse
Located in the heart of Ottawa on Elgin Street, Harmons Steakhouse is a charming restaurant in a beautiful old building.
It mixes the old-time feel of the building with a modern touch, making it a great place for any special event.
This space is heated and protected from the weather, so it’s comfortable no matter the season, and it can fit up to 50 guests for a cozy celebration.
When it comes to food, Harmons really stands out! This top-notch steakhouse is famous for its high-quality ingredients.
They offer a delicious variety of fresh seafood and a changing selection of special meats, like dry-aged beef and Wagyu beef.
People love the taste and texture of their steaks, which include options like Japanese Wagyu and Australian Grass-fed.
If you love desserts, don’t miss out on their sides and sweet treats! Desserts like key lime pie and refreshing sorbet are just the beginning.
Many guests also appreciate the little extras, like complimentary snacks and nicely packaged pastries to take home, which make the visit even more special.
2. Chop Steakhouse & Bar
In the center of Ottawa, Chop Steakhouse & Bar offers a fancy but relaxed place to eat that’s really hard to beat.
They have a wide range of food, from tasty steaks to seafood, salads, wine, and cocktails. They even have a late-night menu for those who get hungry at midnight!
One of the coolest things about Chop is their seasonal feature menus, which keep things fresh and exciting each time you visit.
Regular customers love the steak bites and smoked ribeye, usually served with creamy mashed potatoes and crunchy asparagus.
If you want to kick off your meal with something special, you have to try the mushroom goat cheese dip and shrimp appetizers.
The atmosphere at Chop is modern and welcoming, making it great for any occasion.
Located inside the Sandman Hotel, it’s easy to get to and has plenty of parking, which is super convenient for both locals and visitors.
People often praise the friendly and helpful staff, who make sure everything goes smoothly. From happy hour to private dining options, Chop can meet all your dining needs.
3. Al's Steakhouse
Al's Steakhouse has been a favorite place to eat in Ottawa for more than 50 years, attracting people with its classic style and delicious food.
This famous restaurant, known for its clean white tablecloths, excels at serving traditional dishes that everyone loves.
If you enjoy meat, you'll be happy with options like juicy ribeye steaks, the impressive tomahawk steak, and tasty lamb chops. And if meat isn’t your thing, they have vegetarian choices too.
The tasty offerings don’t stop at the main dishes. One of the most popular sides is their twice-baked potatoes, which are made even better with bacon and chives.
You definitely have to try their black truffle mushroom bread and the hearty French onion soup. For dessert lovers, the blueberry cheesecake and coconut cream pie are perfect ways to finish off your meal.
If you're looking for drinks, Al's has a great variety of cocktails and wines. Their margaritas and Al's old fashioned drinks are especially loved, adding a fun touch to your dining experience.
People often talk about the warm vibe and helpful staff at Al's, making it a great choice for special celebrations or just a nice night out.
It’s conveniently located with easy parking off Waverley Street, making your visit smooth from beginning to end.
Since it opened in 1967, Al's Steakhouse has been a key part of Ottawa's dining scene, always serving high-quality food and great service.
4. Mati
Located in downtown Ottawa, Mati is a must-visit for anyone who loves good food, combining Mediterranean flavors with a modern twist.
The restaurant is cozy yet stylish—ideal for a romantic dinner or a fun night out with friends. The vibe is warm and inviting, making it a great choice for any occasion.
When you check out the menu, you'll find a tempting selection of seafood and perfectly grilled meats. Mati is known for its impressive Seafood Tower and Crudo + Raw Bar, which feature fresh and colorful dishes.
If you're in the mood for something filling, don't miss the charcoal-grilled Canadian Prime and Japanese Wagyu steaks.
The Roasted Truffle Chicken and Seafood Pasta are also top picks, made with quality ingredients and attention to detail.
But dining at Mati is about more than just the food. Their cocktails are an exciting part of the experience too.
The drink menu is full of creative options, with each cocktail expertly crafted to mix fresh ingredients into unique flavors that match your meal perfectly.
Mati also takes pride in its friendly service and welcoming environment. They even offer options for private events and a fancy brunch menu that includes things like lobster grilled cheese, so there's something for everyone.
5. Rosebowl Steak & Seafood
Located in Little Italy, Ottawa, Rosebowl Steakhouse has been a favorite spot for steak and seafood fans since 1977.
As soon as you enter, you'll find comfy leather chairs and soft lighting that create a chill vibe, perfect for relaxing.
The magic behind the delicious food at Rosebowl comes from Owner and Chef Danny Skaff, who has years of experience that really shows in his dishes.
The menu is packed with mouthwatering meats, expertly cooked seafood, and tasty desserts that make for a great finish to any meal.
Some of the must-try dishes include the surf and turf, filet mignon, and seafood medley, which are not only flavorful but also beautifully presented.
If you like to kick things off with an appetizer, the arancini, calamari, and bruschetta are definitely worth trying.
The arancini is especially popular for its rich taste and perfect texture. To enhance your dining experience, the steakhouse also serves a variety of creative cocktails and a nice selection of wines, making it easy to pair your drink with your meal.
One cool feature of Rosebowl is its mural of famous musicians, which adds some artistic flair to the modern decor.
6. The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Ottawa Market
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar in Ottawa Market is a fantastic spot for steak fans and anyone looking for a great meal.
With over 50 years of experience, it’s one of Canada’s best steakhouses and has even made its way into the U.S. They’re known for using the best ingredients.
Enjoy a carefully crafted cocktail while savoring their famous slow-roasted Prime Rib or the tasty teriyaki sirloin.
When you walk into The Keg, you’ll notice the stylish yet friendly vibe. You can choose to eat inside, by a warm fireplace, or outside in the fresh air—each option adds its own cool touch to your meal.
The restaurant is also famous for its amazing service, with staff who speak multiple languages and ensure everyone feels welcome.
It’s a popular place for anniversaries and family get-togethers, often filled with laughter and good times.
If you have any special dietary needs, don’t worry! The Keg is great at accommodating requests, making sure everyone can enjoy their meal.
And if you have to wait, it’s definitely worth it, so making a reservation is a good idea, especially on busy nights and weekends.
7. The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Hunt Club
Located in central Ottawa, The Keg Steakhouse + Bar at Hunt Club is a great spot for anyone who loves steak and seafood.
This trendy yet cozy restaurant is perfect for people looking for classic meals and top-notch service.
With a fireplace to create a nice atmosphere and a variety of cocktails to choose from, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy some good food.
Customers often praise the friendly and attentive staff, who work together to make everyone feel welcome.
The servers are professional and really helpful, which makes dining here a great experience. The vibe is classy but comfortable, making it ideal for family dinners or special events.
The menu at The Keg is packed with delicious options. You can find everything from juicy prime rib and tender filet mignon to a fancy steak and lobster combo.
While the prices can be a bit high, many customers feel that the quality of the food and service makes it worth it.
It’s a good idea to make a reservation, especially on busy nights, since this popular place can fill up fast. There’s plenty of parking available, so getting there is easy.
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar at Hunt Club is known for providing an excellent dining experience, making it a favorite among locals and visitors.
8. The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Kanata/Stittsville
Located in the center of Kanata/Stittsville, The Keg Steakhouse + Bar is a great spot for anyone who loves steak.
This stylish yet relaxed restaurant is famous for its classic steak and seafood dishes, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
The Keg is known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are always ready to help you choose from their wide menu.
They also have options for vegetarians and a kid-friendly menu, so there's something for everyone in the family.
When you walk into The Keg, you'll notice the cozy atmosphere, complete with a warm fireplace. The interior is nicely designed for a comfortable dining experience, and the service is quick and efficient.
The sides, like creamy garlic mashed potatoes and rich twice-baked potatoes, are just as tempting as the main dishes.
The Keg is perfect for special occasions too. They even offer complimentary birthday cakes, making it a go-to place for celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries.
9. Restaurant e18hteen
Located in the lively ByWard Market area of Ottawa, Restaurant e18hteen has been impressing visitors since 2001 with its special mix of classic French dishes and fresh Canadian ingredients.
Enjoy a meal in a beautiful, historic building where every dish is crafted with care, and the wine choices feature selections from award-winning vineyards.
e18hteen is known as one of the best restaurants in Canada, and for good reason. The chefs put a lot of care and skill into each meal, creating tasty seafood and steak dishes that surprise and please your taste buds.
But it’s not just the food that stands out. The service is top-notch, making every guest feel special. The staff knows a lot about the food and drinks, and their excitement adds to the overall experience.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is both classy and welcoming, making it a great choice for any occasion.
Speaking of celebrations, e18hteen is also a fantastic place to host events.
Its beautiful setting is perfect for everything from breakfast meetings and product launches to special dinners and weddings. Raising a glass to a special moment in such a remarkable place is a memorable experience.
10. The Whalesbone Elgin Street
Located on Elgin Street in Ottawa, The Whalesbone is like a hidden treasure waiting for you to find it.
It’s an exciting addition to their original spot on Bank Street, now with enough space for 140 guests, making it great for big get-togethers or special occasions.
When the weather is nice, people love to chill on the backyard patio and enjoy the sunshine. Inside, the decor is cozy and a bit quirky, creating a relaxed vibe that makes everyone feel at home.
If you love seafood, this place is a dream come true, with fresh and delicious dishes that really shine. You could start with some octopus and chorizo or go for a chilled seafood platter that tastes as good as it sounds.
Oysters are a highlight here, with six different types from both coasts, and on Sundays, they have a deal where each oyster is just $2! The scallops with strawberry sauce and the lobster are also super popular.
But seafood isn’t the only thing on the menu. They have a special room for aging beef, which means their steaks are really something special.
They also have lots of tasty options for vegetarians and gluten-free dishes to cater to different diets.
The service at The Whalesbone is known for being friendly and attentive, ensuring that everyone has a good time. And, they offer a nice variety of wines and cocktails to enjoy with your meal.
11. Riviera Ottawa
Located in the busy heart of downtown Ottawa, not far from Parliament Hill, Riviera is a unique restaurant that stands out.
Upon entering a beautiful old bank building that has been turned into an elegant dining spot with tall ceilings and fancy floors, guests experience a blend of history and modern style, providing a special experience every time they visit.
Since it opened in 2016, Riviera has quickly become a favorite for both locals and tourists. You might see business people, local politicians, or even players from visiting NHL teams enjoying a meal there.
The atmosphere is always lively and friendly. One of the highlights is the open kitchen, where talented chefs, led by Jordan Holley, create stunning dishes that look as good as they taste.
Now, let's dive into the food! Riviera has a menu filled with both classic and creative options. You’ll find everything from tartares and crudos to freshly made pastas.
If you love steak, you can't go wrong with the dry-aged striploin steak frites with bordelaise sauce.
Don’t forget about the bar at Riviera! It's a stylish place to enjoy some amazing drinks, especially those made by star mixologist Stephen Flood.
He has 10 unique versions of the classic Negroni that are truly impressive. The cocktail and wine menu is vast, offering something for everyone.
12. Bâton Rouge Grillhouse & Bar
Located close to the busy Sparks Street in Ottawa, Bâton Rouge Grillhouse & Bar is a great place to eat that you won't forget easily.
This cozy restaurant has soft lighting and comfortable booths, making it perfect for a nice dinner with friends or family.
The menu is full of delicious choices, from super tender steak to tasty calamari. And you can't miss their famous pork ribs – they're really juicy and flavorful. With big portions, you'll definitely leave feeling full and satisfied.
But the amazing food isn't the only reason to visit. The service here is fantastic, with staff who really care about making sure everyone has a great time.
Guests often talk about how helpful and friendly the servers are, making each meal special.
If you like eating outside, the restaurant has a nice patio where you can enjoy your meal in the sun during the warmer months. Also, they have a kid's menu, making it a great spot for families.
Bâton Rouge is also famous for its creative cocktails, which are perfect to enjoy with your meal or on their own. It's a great place to relax after a day of checking out Ottawa's sights.
With so many places to eat in the city, Bâton Rouge Grillhouse & Bar really stands out for its welcoming vibe, tasty food, and amazing service.
To Sum It All Up
Check out the coolest steak places in Ottawa! You've got Harmons Steakhouse, which has a chill vibe, and Riviera Ottawa, where you can enjoy a fancy meal. These spots were picked not just for their mouth-watering steaks but also for their awesome atmosphere and friendly staff.
Why not invite some friends or family to check them out with you? It's a tasty way to create some fun memories! Remember, trying new things is what keeps life interesting.
And if you're ever unsure about what to do next, ActiviFinder Ottawa will help you find even more exciting adventures. Enjoy your meal and happy exploring!