Ottawa’s culinary scene is reaching new heights with Turkish and Mexican cuisines leading the charge, and three standout restaurants are proving exactly why these flavours have captured the city’s appetite.
From sizzling kebabs fresh off the grill to authentic street tacos that transport you straight to Mexico City, Ottawa food lovers are spoiled for choice. Whether you’re craving a family-style feast at Turkish Kebab House, a creative lunch at Cooper’s Creative Kitchen, or authentic Mexican street food at Ay Wey, these three restaurants deliver unforgettable dining experiences. Here’s everything you need to know about these local favourites that are reshaping Ottawa’s food landscape.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Turkish Kebab House in Kanata serves incredible family-style Turkish feasts with perfectly grilled meats. Cooper’s Creative Kitchen on Cartier Street surprises with creative comfort food like an unforgettable turkey club. Ay Wey Mexican Street Tacos in Vanier brings authentic Mexican flavours with spit-roasted al pastor and traditional tlayudas.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Turkish Kebab House | 1910 Bank St & 120-471 Terry Fox, Kanata |
| 📍 Cooper’s Kitchen | 25 Cartier Street |
| 📍 Ay Wey Tacos | 295 MacArthur Avenue, Vanier |
| 🎟️ Price Range | $19-$75 per person |
Turkish Kebab House: Where Family Feasts Come Alive
If you’ve been paying attention to Ottawa’s food scene, you’ll notice Turkish cuisine is becoming the next big thing—and Turkish Kebab House is leading the charge. Tucked into an unassuming plaza in Kanata, this gem has become the go-to spot for family-style dining that doesn’t disappoint.
The service here is next-level attentive, with an army of servers and welcoming management that makes you feel right at home. Start with the Spinach Pide ($19), a perfectly baked cheesy pie that’s more than enough to share, paired with the super fresh Kashiq Salad featuring flavourful marinated tomatoes with a tangy pomegranate sauce.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the Mixed Grill for 2 ($75)—though it easily feeds three. This towering, glistening pile of fresh grilled meats arrives on a bed of delicate bulgur. The platter includes adana kebab, chicken shish, beef shish, chicken wings, kofte, and döner kebab that literally melts in your mouth. The chicken wings might be the juiciest you’ve ever had.
They don’t take reservations, but if you have to wait, it’s absolutely worth it.
Cooper’s Creative Kitchen: Hidden Gem Downtown
Sometimes the best restaurants are the ones that completely surprise you. Cooper’s Creative Kitchen in the Embassy Hotel on Cartier Street, across from City Hall, is exactly that kind of place.
The bright, homey restaurant offers casual dining with friendly, knowledgeable service. The clientele is eclectic—tourists, professionals, and workers in high-vis jackets all enjoying the same great food.
The Roast Turkey Club on sourdough ($19) is an absolute standout. This enormous sandwich comes toasted with spicy hummus, herbed mayo, avocado, roasted red pepper jelly, and thick, juicy turkey. It’s the sauciest club you’ll ever have the pleasure of eating. The fresh-cut fries on the side achieve perfect crispiness.
The burger is equally impressive—a gorgeous melty mess with tons of smoked cheddar and onions three ways. The dense, juicy patty is obviously made in house, and the crispy onion rings are tasty without being greasy.
This is the perfect spot for a quick, casual meal away from the bustle of Elgin, and the beef bourguignon on the dinner menu promises to chase away winter chills.
Ay Wey Mexican Street Tacos: Authentic Vanier Gem
There’s a new Mexican place in town that’s bringing something truly unique to Ottawa. Ay Wey Mexican Street Tacos opened on MacArthur Avenue in Vanier about a month ago, and they’re already making waves with authentic flavours you won’t find elsewhere in the city.
What sets Ay Wey apart is their al pastor meat, slow-roasted on a spit just like you’d see in Mexico. The meat is juicy, flavourful, and roasty in a way that’s intensely satisfying. Platters of five tacos start at $21.50, but there’s so much more on the menu.
Don’t miss the Quesadilla Machete with spicy chicharron—a savoury, spicy meat-filled experience unlike anything you’ve had before. The Tlayuda ($24.50) is another must-try: an open, crunchy corn tortilla topped with refried beans, shredded cabbage, avocado, cheese, beef, chorizo, and salsa. You eat it in slices like a pizza, and it’s absolutely divine.
The tacos themselves are exceptional. The Suadero (brisket) is beefy, rich, and incredibly tender. The Cochinita Pibil (pulled pork) is deeply spiced and smoky with a fantastic bright habanero salsa. Their signature Pastor is caramelized and juicy with a flavourful savoury sauce.
This is legit Mexican food that will change what you think you know about the cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which restaurant is best for large groups?
Turkish Kebab House is ideal for family-style dining with large sharing platters. The Mixed Grill for 2 can easily feed three people, and the atmosphere is perfect for celebrations. Note that they don’t take reservations, so arrive early for larger groups.
Are these restaurants budget-friendly?
Cooper’s Creative Kitchen offers the best value with substantial meals around $19. Ay Wey’s taco platters start at $21.50. Turkish Kebab House is pricier but the portions are generous—perfect for splitting.
Do any of these restaurants offer vegetarian options?
All three restaurants offer vegetarian choices. Turkish Kebab House has excellent pide and salads. Cooper’s has a varied menu with vegetarian sandwiches. Ay Wey offers cheese quesadillas and vegetable-based options.
What are the parking options?
Turkish Kebab House has plaza parking in Kanata. Cooper’s is near City Hall with street and garage parking available. Ay Wey in Vanier has street parking on MacArthur Avenue.
Do I need reservations?
Turkish Kebab House doesn’t take reservations—arrive early for peak times. Cooper’s accepts walk-ins for casual dining. Ay Wey is a smaller space, so weekend evenings may have short waits.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s food scene continues to diversify and impress, with Turkish and Mexican cuisines emerging as clear favourites. Whether you’re in the mood for the aromatic spices of Turkish grilled meats, the creative comfort food of a downtown gem, or the authentic street food flavours of Mexico, these three restaurants deliver experiences worth seeking out.
Each offers something unique: Turkish Kebab House for festive family gatherings, Cooper’s for those surprise lunch discoveries, and Ay Wey for adventurous eaters seeking authentic Mexican flavours. Add them all to your must-visit list.
Source: Apt613 Best Bites
