Are you ready to go on a tasty adventure without leaving the city? Welcome to a place where your taste buds can try flavors from all over the world right here in Ottawa!
This article highlights the top 12 all-you-can-eat restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience that will satisfy any craving.
These places were chosen to give you a fun and varied food experience. You’ll find new favorite dishes and get great value for your money. So let's get started!
1. Gyubee Japanese Grill
Located right in the busy downtown area of Ottawa, Gyubee Japanese Grill is a great place for anyone who loves food, especially if you enjoy Japanese barbecue.
What makes Gyubee special is its all-you-can-eat option, which means you can try lots of different dishes in a fun and interactive way.
Each table has its own grill where you can cook fresh ingredients like juicy beef, chicken, tasty seafood, and crunchy veggies.
If you're a fan of meat, Gyubee's menu is perfect for you, with a variety of high-quality meats and tasty sides that go well with the main dishes.
They do have some options for vegetarians, but they're not as many, so meat lovers might enjoy it more here.
The dining experience is all about sharing and having fun, and you have two hours to order and eat as much as you like.
The vibe at Gyubee is lively and welcoming, with a clean and cozy space that makes you feel comfortable.
The staff is friendly and always ready to lend a hand. Since Gyubee is quite popular, especially during busy times, it's a good idea to plan ahead if you’re going with a big group, as they only take reservations for six or more people.
2. Liuyishou Hotpot Ottawa
In the center of Ottawa, there’s a place called Liuyishou Hotpot that’s really making a name for itself! It’s part of a worldwide restaurant chain known for its delicious hot pot dishes.
With over 1,300 locations around the globe, including countries like China, Dubai, and Australia, you can enjoy a taste of different cultures right here.
Here’s how dining at Liuyishou works. Instead of the usual all-you-can-eat meals, they have a "pay per item" system, which can be easier on your budget.
The menu is packed with choices. You can pick from different types of broths, ranging from super spicy to gentle and mild.
What really makes this place special is the friendly service. The staff is always ready to help you with the menu or take your order.
Even when it gets busy, like during dinner time, they’re quick and efficient, making it a great spot for both small and large groups.
Eating here is pretty interactive, too! You can choose to have your own hot pot or share one with friends right at your table.
They also offer extras like fruit and seaweed salad to go with your meal. And, if you want to save some money, check out their happy hour deals after 8 PM.
If you want to try authentic Sichuan-style hot pot and have a fun and tasty dining experience, Liuyishou Hotpot is definitely worth a visit.
3. Korean House Restaurant
If you're in Ottawa and craving some delicious Korean food, Korean House Restaurant is a great spot to check out.
It’s a laid-back place where you can enjoy Korean BBQ and other classic dishes without spending too much money.
The chef here knows their stuff, combining traditional Korean cooking with fresh, local ingredients to make sure everything tastes amazing.
One of the highlights is their all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ, which is super popular. You can choose from marinated beef, chicken, and pork, plus tasty beef dumplings, veggie pancakes, and some great sides like kimchi and sweet potatoes.
If you want to try different dishes, they also offer bulgogi, bibimbap, and seafood options like seafood soup and Haemool-pajeon, which is a crispy seafood pancake that many love.
Lunch is especially good here, with BBQ available from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM every day. You can kick off your meal with a warm bowl of miso soup, then move to dishes like fried mandu and La Kalbi ribs.
The service is friendly and attentive, making it a nice place for families, dates, or hanging out with friends.
The restaurant might be small, but the lively vibe and tasty food definitely make up for that. And, with affordable prices and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
4. East India Company Restaurants
East India Company Restaurants in Ottawa is a fantastic place where old traditions meet new tastes. This family-owned restaurant has been serving delicious Indian food for over five generations.
They have a buffet filled with amazing dishes that are packed with aromatic spices and rich flavors that have been carefully developed over the years.
You can find a wide range of both meat and vegetarian options, and favorites like lamb curry, butter chicken, and mutton curry are always a hit with visitors.
They also sell authentic Indian curry sauces and spice blends, which means you can enjoy their flavors at home.
With sauces like Butter Chicken and Vindaloo, anyone can try their hand at cooking Indian dishes. They even provide online cooking tutorials to help you make a delicious meal with ease.
The restaurant itself is beautifully decorated, making it a great spot for photography. Don’t miss out on their freshly made naan, which is baked in a special clay oven for an amazing taste.
The staff is friendly and attentive, always ready to help with any special dietary needs and to make sure everyone has a great experience.
Situated in downtown Ottawa, East India Company is easy to find, though parking can be a bit tricky, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation.
5. Mandarin Restaurant
Step into the Mandarin Restaurant, where going to the buffet is like going on a fun food adventure!
The first thing you'll notice is how many different dishes there are. With over 100 choices, it’s a dream come true for anyone who loves to eat.
You can choose something familiar like General Tao Chicken or try something new like Thai Mango Salad. If you can't pick just one thing, why not sample a little of everything?
Kids will love it too! Little ones who are 4 years old and younger can eat for free if they come with an adult who pays.
There are also cool activity sheets called "Mandarin Munchkins" to keep kids busy while the grown-ups enjoy the buffet.
And let’s talk about desserts! Ending your meal with a slice of pie or a Crème Brûlée is a delightful way to conclude a fantastic dining experience.
Your safety is really important here, so they’ve increased cleaning and offer masks for the staff.
It’s a good idea to make a reservation, especially since this place is super popular and always has a warm and friendly atmosphere.
With 30 locations all over Ontario, Mandarin is a go-to place for celebrating special occasions.
6. Govinda's
Tucked away near the University of Ottawa, Govinda's is a great spot for anyone who loves tasty vegetarian or vegan food.
This cozy restaurant has a friendly vibe and is popular with students because it offers special discounts and affordable prices.
Their menu is full of delicious and healthy options, including gluten-free choices, so there’s something for everyone, even if you have certain dietary needs.
To start your meal, you can choose their flavorful lentil soup, which is made with tamarind, curry leaves, and a mix of spices that provides warmth.
After that, you can enjoy their "Wholesome" plate, which allows you to select between rice or buckwheat, a colorful bean salad with cilantro and tahini dressing, a potato cauliflower curry, and a sweet dessert to wrap things up.
Govinda's shares its space with an ISKCON temple, creating a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere that enhances your dining experience.
On top of the delicious food, Govinda's also gets involved in the community. They take part in events like 'Feed the World Week,' where they give out free meals to spread kindness.
People often compliment the restaurant for being clean, lively, and for serving comforting dishes. And, there’s easy street parking, making it simple to visit.
7. Ciao Italia
In the heart of Ottawa's Chinatown, there's a cozy little Italian restaurant called Ciao Italia that's like a hidden treasure.
When you walk in, you’re welcomed by the warm smell of freshly baked bread and delicious pasta. This place is famous for its real Italian food that will make your taste buds happy.
At Ciao Italia, the menu is a tasty adventure through all the best flavors from Italy. You can start with crispy Zucchini Fritti, which comes with a yummy homemade garlic sauce, or enjoy a hearty Chicken Marsala.
One of the coolest things about Ciao Italia is their all-you-can-eat option, which is perfect for days when you're really hungry.
They also have great cocktails and even vegan meals, so there's something for everyone. The portions are big, so make sure to come with a good appetite!
The service is excellent, with friendly staff checking in to make sure you’re having a great time. The owner, who is also the chef, likes to chat with guests, making it feel like you're eating at a friend’s house.
With amazing food, friendly service, and a comfy atmosphere, it's no surprise that this restaurant is a favorite among locals.
8. Mumbai Masala Grill
Located right in the lively Downtown Ottawa, Mumbai Masala Grill shines with its bold flavors and friendly service.
This place is a dream come true for anyone who loves Indian food, serving up a fantastic range of dishes that are both authentic and delicious.
Every bite at Mumbai Masala Grill takes you on a tasty adventure through India, thanks to the perfect mix of high-quality spices and fresh ingredients.
The menu is packed with Indian favorites. If you’re into the smoky Tandoori, the rich Butter Chicken, or the fragrant Biryani, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Customers often talk about the friendly staff who go out of their way to make sure you have a wonderful dining experience.
This restaurant is also popular with vegetarians, offering a variety of tasty vegetarian options like Garlic Gobhi and Paneer Lababdar.
And if you have an event coming up or just need a meal on the go, their catering services and online ordering make it super easy to enjoy their food.
9. Fatboys Southern Smokehouse
Walking into a place that blends Southern friendliness with the vibe of Ottawa is what you experience at Fatboys Southern Smokehouse.
Located right in the city, this BBQ restaurant brings the flavors of the southern U.S. straight to your table with its special slow-cooked barbecue style.
The founder was inspired to create this spot after a road trip on his Harley Davidson through the best BBQ places in America.
Fatboys opened in 2011, right on American Thanksgiving, and has been serving up true southern BBQ ever since.
It’s all about the experience. The place has a rustic feel that reflects a classic Southern smokehouse, featuring a custom smoker and live music that creates an enjoyable atmosphere.
What makes Fatboys stand out even more is its friendly atmosphere. It’s cozy and inviting, perfect for hanging out with friends or family.
The staff is super nice and always ready to chat, making sure you have a great time. And, if you want to host a private event, they have a cool speakeasy area just for that.
For anyone who loves a good southern BBQ meal, Fatboys is a must-visit in Ottawa. There's street parking available, so it's easy to stop by.
10. Daldongnae Korean BBQ - Ottawa Byward
Located in the busy Byward Market, Daldongnae Korean BBQ takes you back to the cozy "moon villages" of Seoul from the 1950s and 60s.
This unique vibe makes your dining experience special, blending old memories with modern flavors.
Even though the area has changed over the years, Daldongnae keeps the peaceful spirit of that time alive in a fun way.
When you step inside, you might be surprised by how big it is compared to what it looks like from the outside.
The warm and welcoming atmosphere is great for romantic dinners or fun nights out with friends. Here, you get to be the chef!
You can cook a variety of meats and vegetables right at your table on a hot gas grill. Meat lovers will enjoy dishes like beef boneless short ribs and beef rib fingers.
If you prefer plant-based options, there are tasty choices like mushrooms, red peppers, tofu, vegan sausage, and green beans, so there's something for everyone.
The service at Daldongnae is fantastic. The staff is friendly and ready to help, guiding you through the grilling process so that even if you're new to it, you can still have a great time cooking Korean BBQ.
While parking can be tricky around the market, the restaurant is friendly for kids and accessible for people with wheelchairs, making it a great place for everyone.
To Sum It All Up
Did you know Ottawa has a ton of amazing buffet options? From the tasty dishes at Gyubee Japanese Grill to the spicy flavors at Mumbai Masala Grill, there's something for everyone.
Be it you're craving the rich tastes of Indian food or the smoky dishes at Fatboys Southern Smokehouse, you’ll find an all-you-can-eat spot that fits your mood. These places were picked for their great variety.
And for even more exciting options, check out ActiviFinder Ottawa. It's the best way to find cool spots in Ottawa and beyond. Get ready to enjoy some great food and have a good time!