Top 8 Places for the Best Pasta Dishes in Ottawa

Tamer Faisal
10 Min Read

Are you ready to explore pasta dishes in Ottawa? Get ready for a tasty adventure through the city where all your pasta dreams can come true! In this article, we’re going to share the top 8 spots in Ottawa that serve some seriously delicious pasta. 

Why should you keep reading? If you're looking for the best pasta in town, this list is your go-to guide. You’ll find out where to eat amazing pasta and get a feel for each restaurant’s unique vibe.

So grab your fork, get comfortable, and let’s check out these awesome pasta spots. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite dish nearby!

1. Mamma Teresa Ristorante

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Located in the center of Ottawa, Mamma Teresa Ristorante is a popular spot that brings a taste of Italy to the National Capital.

Founded by the Boselli Family, this cozy restaurant has been making locals and visitors happy since 1970.

It's more than just a place to eat—it's a warm and welcoming spot where Italian traditions come alive, making every meal a memorable one.

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Set in a beautiful old mansion, the restaurant has a classy and historic vibe, so every visit feels special. Mamma Teresa's is perfect for a romantic dinner or a fun celebration with family and friends. But what really makes it stand out is the food.

The menu at Mamma Teresa's is a delicious exploration of classic Italian dishes. People love the homemade pasta, which is always cooked just right.

The portions are big, so you won’t leave feeling hungry. And make sure to save room for dessert—each one looks amazing and tastes even better.

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The service here is excellent, with friendly staff who know the menu well and are happy to help you choose your meal or pick a wine to go with it.

For over 50 years, Mamma Teresa Ristorante has been a favorite among politicians, celebrities, and everyday people.

This shows just how dedicated the restaurant is to keeping the true flavors of Italy alive right in Ottawa. With easy parking right across the street, there’s really no reason not to check out this fantastic dining spot.

2. Vittoria Trattoria

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Located in the center of Ottawa, Vittoria Trattoria is a fantastic restaurant that stands out with its open dining area, letting you see the chefs at work no matter where you sit.

One of the first things you'll notice is the striking glass wine cellar that stretches from the floor to the ceiling, making it a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds. And, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible, so everyone can feel comfortable here.

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Vittoria Trattoria is known for its stylish vibe and amazing service from a friendly and knowledgeable staff. People often rave about the tender beef tenderloin, perfectly cooked salmon, and the homemade flavor of the Penne Arrabiata and margherita pizza.

The vegetarian pizza, cooked in a traditional Italian brick oven, is also a favorite, offering a crispy and tasty experience.

This restaurant is all about the experience, with a romantic atmosphere that’s enhanced by outdoor seating equipped with heated lamps, making it cozy for any occasion.

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Vittoria Trattoria doesn't just focus on food, it also has a wide selection of wines and shared meal options, perfect for both romantic dinners and big get-togethers.

The staff are friendly and professional, ensuring that everyone feels at home.

With easy online reservations, free parking, and clean restrooms, Vittoria Trattoria is dedicated to providing a smooth dining experience.

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3. Johnny Farina

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Located right on Elgin Street in the lively city of Ottawa, Johnny Farina is a great place for anyone who loves Italian food.

This restaurant used to be a movie theater, and it now impresses visitors with its huge 35-foot ceilings and an open kitchen where they cook with wood-fired ovens.

The menu is full of classic Italian dishes, including delicious wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta, all packed with flavor.

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Customers often praise the service, saying it’s both professional and friendly. The staff makes sure everyone feels comfortable, even when the restaurant is busy.

If you’re planning a special event, Johnny Farina can help with that too. They offer private and semi-private dining spaces, perfect for anything from birthday parties to work meetings.

With room for up to 240 people and customizable menus, you can count on them to make your event a success.

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The lounge area is a cozy spot to relax, featuring modern music and a variety of seating options.

Wine lovers will enjoy their Enomatic system, which lets you try high-quality wines by the glass. And, on Thursdays, you can get half-price wine bottles, making it a great mid-week treat.

With its welcoming vibe and amazing Italian dishes, Johnny Farina is a must-try for anyone checking out Ottawa's lively food scene.

4. Giovanni's Restaurant

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Giovanni's Restaurant in Ottawa feels like you've just walked into a slice of Italy, right in the city.

It’s super popular for its authentic Italian dishes, making it a go-to place if you're craving something delicious.

As soon as you step inside, the romantic vibe and classic decor create the perfect atmosphere for a memorable meal.

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The menu is packed with Italian favorites, especially the pasta dishes. From the classic spaghetti alla carbonara to the rich burrata-stuffed ravioli, every plate is made with care and full of flavor.

You can't miss their gnocchi and veal parmigiana, which are also big hits with regulars. And, the portions are huge, so you'll definitely leave feeling satisfied.

But Giovanni's has more than just pasta. They offer a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, and even tasty rice dishes.

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The service at Giovanni's is top-notch. The staff is friendly and attentive, always ready to make your dining experience special.

They even offer valet parking and private dining rooms, making it a great spot for everything from business lunches to romantic dinners.

They handle special events like weddings and birthdays with care, offering flexible menu options to fit different preferences.

5. Ciao Italia

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In the middle of Ottawa's lively Chinatown, there's a special little restaurant called Ciao Italia that offers a fantastic Italian dining experience.

Even though it's not very big, this cozy place is full of charm and makes you feel at home as soon as you walk in.

Ciao Italia is known for its real Italian food, serving delicious dishes like pasta, pizza, and seafood, all made with fresh ingredients.

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The menu at Ciao Italia is full of tasty options for everyone. If you're a pasta fan, you should definitely try the Gorgonzola gnocchi or the manicotti with rosé sauce.

Pizza lovers won’t want to miss the prosciutto pizza. And make sure to save some space for dessert, because their tiramisu is truly amazing.

The owner, who is also the chef, makes sure everything is just right by checking in on guests. This personal touch makes the restaurant feel welcoming, which is why both locals and visitors love it.

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If you like to try different things, Ciao Italia even has all-you-can-eat options and a variety of tasty cocktails.

They also have choices for different diets, like vegan and halal meals. The portions are big, and the prices are fair, making sure you get a good deal for your meal.

There are also convenient parking options nearby, including free street parking after certain hours. So, if you're craving a delicious Italian meal in a cozy atmosphere, Ciao Italia is definitely the place to go!

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6. Town

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If you find yourself in Ottawa, you definitely need to check out Town. It’s right in the city center and is a fantastic place to enjoy a great meal in a cozy setting.

The restaurant is famous for its menu that changes with the seasons, so you can always expect fresh and flavorful dishes. And don’t miss their agnolotti pasta—it's a real crowd-pleaser!

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But Town isn’t just about the food. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with soft lighting that makes every meal feel a bit more special.

The staff is friendly and always ready to help you pick the best dishes or suggest a cool wine, maybe even something from Croatia, or a fun cocktail.

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One of the best things about Town is that the menu is designed for sharing, so it’s a great place to go with friends and try a little bit of everything.

You can start with small bites like focaccia with whipped brown butter or beef tartare, and if you're really hungry, you can go for heartier options like pork chop milanese or clam tostadas.

With tall windows and outdoor seating, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a good meal and hang out with good company.

7. Cabotto's

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Cabotto's in Kanata is a wonderful place for anyone who loves real Italian food. This cozy restaurant is located in a historic building that has been around since 1868, giving it a warm and inviting feel.

With its dark wood decor and a warm fireplace, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a great meal. People in the area and visitors rave about Cabotto's, especially for its homemade pasta.

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Their menu showcases delicious Italian dishes, including a variety of pasta and seafood options, with many choices for those who prefer vegetarian meals.

One of their most popular dishes is the seafood pasta, which is made with fresh ingredients and is so tasty that people talk about it long after finishing their meal.

The service at Cabotto's is also excellent. The staff is professional, friendly, and always ready to help, making every visit special.

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Cabotto's is a great spot for special occasions like anniversaries, birthdays, and even weddings. The historic feel of the old tavern building adds a special touch, making every visit feel unique.

Also, they offer options for people with dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free and dairy-free meals, so everyone can enjoy dining there.

If you're looking for a place with amazing food, a welcoming atmosphere, and fantastic service, Cabotto's is a great choice. It’s easy to see why so many people leave wanting to come back.

8. Pub Italia

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In the heart of Ottawa's Little Italy, there's a cool spot called Pub Italia that’s both interesting and tasty.

It combines the cozy vibe of an Italian restaurant with the fun atmosphere of an Irish pub. Since opening in 1994, it feels like stepping into a medieval setting with its stained glass windows and unique decorations.

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Pub Italia is famous for its huge beer selection, featuring 36 different draft options and over 200 bottled beers from around the world.

They even have something called the "Beer Bible" to help you choose the best one for your taste. But the food is just as impressive.

People love the big servings and delicious flavors of dishes like Gorgonzola and meatball pasta, smoked salmon pasta, and the popular bruschetta.

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Customers often rave about the friendly and quick service at Pub Italia. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, making everyone feel welcome, including families with kids.

If you're in Ottawa and looking for a unique dining experience, Pub Italia is definitely worth checking out.

With its great food, amazing beer choices, and special atmosphere, it promises a memorable outing for both locals and visitors.

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To Sum It All Up

After checking out Ottawa's amazing pasta spots, it’s clear the city is a dream come true for pasta fans! If you’re looking for a taste of Italy, Vittoria Trattoria and Johnny Farina are great choices, while Giovanni's Restaurant and Ciao Italia deliver that classic Italian feel with every bite. There's something for everyone.

Don’t forget, trying new foods is part of what makes life interesting. There's a whole range of flavors out there waiting for you.

And if you’re looking for more fun activities, check out ActiviFinder Ottawa. Happy pasta exploring!

Tamer Faisal
Content Writer

Tamer is always up for an adventure and loves exploring new things. At ActiviFinder, he's on a mission to find and share the most exciting experiences, from fun activities and great restaurants to unique events. An interesting fact about Tamer is his passion for competitive gaming, adding another layer to his adventurous spirit.

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