Greek Food in Ottawa: Tavernas, Souvlaki, and Bakeries

Last Updated: January 30, 2026

Greek food in Ottawa is built for sharing: hot souvlaki off the grill, lemon potatoes that disappear first, and bakery sweets that turn a quick stop into a full afternoon. This guide focuses on how locals actually eat Greek in 2026, from quick souvlaki counters to sit down tavernas and dessert bakeries that feel like a tiny slice of Athens. It covers the spots people name most often, the ordering moves that save money, and the local tips that keep your meal simple and satisfying.

Written by Johnny Johnny, Ottawa food editor at ViaOttawa.

Ottawa’s Greek scene spreads across the core and the suburbs: ByWard Market for late night crowds, The Glebe for bakeries, Centretown for casual pickup, and the west and east ends for reliable family meals. If you are mapping a full food day, pair this guide with ByWard Market, The Glebe, Westboro, and Little Italy to plan the route. Menu details and delivery options are based on venue menus and listings on Uber Eats, Skip, DoorDash, venue websites, and TripAdvisor reviews, which makes it easier to see how these places actually operate day to day. Because hours can shift by season and listing, treat any time window as a starting point and verify the exact schedule before you go.

Key Highlights

Greek mezze spread with pita and dips Caption: Greek food in Ottawa works best as a shareable spread of grilled meats, dips, and pastries.

TL;DR: Ottawa has a solid Greek core in 2026. Cozmos is the most consistent value in the Market, The Greek Souvlaki Shack is a reliable date night taverna, Greek on Wheels is the easiest group order, Med Supper Club is the upscale standout, and Nutty Greek is the dessert and bakery stop locals quietly swear by.

Quick Facts	Details
Core Greek spots in this guide	8 main options in the comparison table, plus neighbourhood picks
Best value for under $20	Cozmos Souvlaki and Greek To Go
Best date night vibe	The Greek Souvlaki Shack and Med Supper Club
Best for groups	Greek on Wheels platters
Best desserts	Nutty Greek Bake Shop

Greek Food in Ottawa in 2026: What to Expect

Greek platter with lemon potatoes and tzatziki Caption: A classic Greek plate in Ottawa usually means grilled meat, lemon potatoes, salad, and tzatziki.

Greek food in Ottawa in 2026 means grilled souvlaki, gyro wraps, lemon potatoes, and pastries, offered in a mix of no frills counters and cozy tavernas that lean on simple, familiar flavours. Most meals land in the $10 to $35 per person range, with bakery stops as low as $5 and upscale dinners at $40 and above. The experience is less about elaborate plating and more about steady, comforting flavours that work for families, groups, and quick weeknight meals.

The city splits into three styles. Tavernas and sit down restaurants are the best for shared platters, date nights, and longer meals. Quick service souvlaki counters are the weekday default, especially for lunch, and they are often the best value. Bakeries and dessert counters make Greek food feel like a grab and go treat: baklava, loukoumades, and spinach pies that are easy to take home. If you want a wider Ottawa food loop, compare this with the Korean food guide, the Thai food guide, or the fried chicken guide for a full cross city crawl.

Ottawa’s Greek scene is also practical. ByWard Market spots rely on foot traffic and OC Transpo access near Rideau Station, while suburban picks rely on big parking lots and family friendly dining rooms. Even within Greek food, you will notice a split between comfort and convenience: some people want a full taverna meal, others just want a warm pita and good tzatziki on a busy day. The sections below keep that split clear so you can choose the right spot for the way you want to eat, whether you are planning a date night, feeding a family, or grabbing a fast lunch.

The best way to think about Greek food in Ottawa is to focus on shared plates. A single platter and a salad can cover two people, and most places are happy to add extra pita or a small side of tzatziki. That sharing culture is the reason Greek food holds up so well in Ottawa’s colder months; it is filling, easy to portion, and built for groups. Once you know that, the choice between a quick service counter and a sit down taverna becomes much easier.

How to Order Greek Food Like a Local in Ottawa

Greek table with shared plates and dip bowls Caption: The local move in Ottawa is to split one platter, one salad, and extra pita.

The most important Ottawa Greek rule is this: order for the table, not for each person. Greek food is designed for sharing, and most Ottawa kitchens portion their platters with that in mind. If you order one platter per person, you will almost always over order. A better pattern is one platter for every two people, then a salad and extra pita to stretch it. This works in both quick service counters and sit down tavernas.

Start with the basics. Tzatziki and pita are the safest first order across every Greek kitchen in this guide. The tzatziki gives you the acid and freshness that balances the grilled meat, and it keeps the pita interesting on its own. If your group is hungry, add a second dip only after the platter arrives. Most Ottawa kitchens will happily bring sauce on the side if you ask, which keeps the meat and pita from turning soggy, especially if you are taking food home.

For two people, the standard formula looks like this: one souvlaki platter, one Greek salad, and extra pita. The salad is usually large, so a single salad can cover two people. Expansion notes suggest salads are often $8 to $10, and the feta or olive add on is about $2. If you want to keep the salad simple, skip onions or extra add ons and keep it classic. For the platter, choose a protein mix if you are not sure what you like, or choose lamb if you want the strongest flavour.

If you are ordering takeout, the key is to keep sauces and bread separate. Ask for pita warm, keep the tzatziki sealed, and do not soak the meat in sauce until you are ready to eat. This keeps the bread from drying out and the meat from going soggy. A simple move is to wrap the pita loosely, not tightly, which helps it stay soft without steaming itself to mush.

Another local pattern is to split proteins so the table can compare. Order one chicken and one lamb skewer, or mix a platter and a wrap if you want both grilled and shaved meat textures. If you are eating with kids or lighter eaters, keep sauces on the side, skip the heavier rice, and lean into lemon potatoes and salad instead. This keeps the meal familiar without forcing everyone into the same flavour profile.

Finally, treat Greek food in Ottawa as a flexible meal. It works for lunch, dinner, and late night snacks. If you are eating late, order a smaller platter and skip the heavier rice so you do not feel weighed down. If you are eating with a group, add one extra pita per person and one extra dip per two people. This keeps the meal balanced and makes it easy to share without fighting over the last piece of bread.

Classic Greek Tavernas and Sit Down Restaurants

Greek taverna interior with checkered tablecloths Caption: Ottawa tavernas focus on warm hospitality, grilled meats, and long, shared meals.

Cozmos Souvlaki (ByWard Market)

Cozmos Souvlaki sits right in the Market at 255 York St, Ottawa ON K1N 5T7, a spot that feels built for late night dinner runs and pre event meals. It is known for a modest, no frills dining room with a few simple tables and a lot of takeout traffic. Many locals describe it as a family run kitchen with a warm, busy energy that does not try to be trendy. The appeal is no frills authenticity and flame grilled meats, the kind of food people compare to a yiayia kitchen rather than a polished restaurant. On busy evenings it becomes a boisterous hub, with families drifting in after hockey and groups grabbing quick platters before heading back out.

Hours can vary by listing. The most common listing says daily 11am to 10pm with later weekend hours, but some sources list 10:30am to 8pm on Friday and Saturday with Sunday closed, which is why it is smart to check before you head out. The price range is $, with a typical spend of $15 to $25 per person. The safest and most popular order is a souvlaki platter with lemon potatoes, spanakopita, and saganaki, and many locals say the lamb souvlaki is the most reliable standout. The potatoes are often called out as a strength, and some people even treat the poutine as a guilty pleasure add on.

The timing window matters. Weekday lunch, roughly 11am to 2pm, is the easiest time to get in and out, while the place often fills up after 5pm on Friday through Sunday. Peak waits run 20 to 30 minutes on Friday and Saturday, while off peak waits can be under 10 minutes. Cozmos is walk in only, so if you are trying to keep the meal quick, go early or go at lunch. If you are going with a group, expect a wait and plan to order as soon as you sit.

For two people, the chicken souvlaki family platter in the $25 to $30 range can be enough when paired with a Greek salad and extra tzatziki. The portions are large, so you can usually plan on leftovers. The trade off is the small dining room, which means the room fills quickly and some diners report inconsistent texture in mixed meat orders. If you want to avoid soggy pitas, ask for sauce on the side, and if you are gluten sensitive, skip the deep fried extras. The most consistent strategy is to keep the order simple: one platter, one salad, one extra pita, and a side of tzatziki.

Parking can be challenging in ByWard. Street parking is tight, so most locals either walk or take transit. Rideau Station is the easiest transit anchor, and OC Transpo Route 6 or 7 runs nearby. Delivery is a big part of the business, with Uber Eats and Skip listed on most menus, which makes Cozmos a dependable weeknight option even if you do not want to drive downtown.

The local tone around Cozmos is loyal. One Reddit quote sums up the consistency: “The food here is delicious and consistent. I always get the souvlaki…” Another review focuses on value and speed: “Excellent for the time and what you pay. Always a hit with the family… super quick so better than any fast food and the platters feed a growing family. Excellent value.” That combination of price, speed, and portion size is why Cozmos remains the most stable Greek option in the Market.

If you want to pair it with a Market night, Cozmos works best as a fast anchor before you go out. It is not a long, slow meal; it is a reliable plate with good flavour at a fair price. For a longer Market night, use the Ottawa nightlife guide and Ottawa happy hour guide to plan the rest of the evening. Cozmos is the place you choose when you want to eat well and move on, and that is exactly what a Market night needs.

The Greek Souvlaki Shack (Vanier)

The Greek Souvlaki Shack sits in Vanier at 1203 St Laurent Blvd, Ottawa ON K1K 3B9 and feels like a real neighbourhood taverna rather than a chain. The dining room is casual and lived in, with wooden tables, dim lighting, and checkered table details that make it feel classic without trying too hard. People describe it as intimate without being fancy, which makes it a strong choice when you want a sit down meal without the price tag of an upscale restaurant. The tableside saganaki flambe is the signature taverna moment here, and it is the reason many diners call it a date night pick.

Hours are listed as Mon to Sat 11am to 9pm, and the price range is $$ with a typical spend of $20 to $35 per person. The signature dishes are lamb and chicken kabobs, moussaka, and Greek salad, with many diners praising how tender the meats are. The restaurant uses family recipes dating to the 1980s, which gives the food a classic, comfort driven feel rather than a modern fusion approach.

Timing matters here as well. Friday and Saturday dinner, roughly 7pm to 9pm, is the busiest window, while weekday evenings after 6pm or Sunday afternoons are usually calmer. Waits at peak sit around 15 minutes, and while reservations are not required, calling ahead for dinner is the easiest way to avoid a long wait and to confirm hours if the schedule feels spotty. Seating is limited, so large groups can feel squeezed if you arrive at the wrong time.

For two people, a lamb or chicken kabob platter around $28 plus a shared spanakopita can feed three. That is the portion size that regulars reference when they talk about value. The best starter is tzatziki, and locals recommend keeping sauce on the side to preserve texture. If you are watching carbs, skip the heavier rice and lean into grilled vegetables instead. Those grilled veggies show up as a quiet menu highlight, and they are a good way to balance a rich platter.

Parking is mostly street only, which can be a trade off during dinner rush, and the easiest transit option is OC Transpo Route 12. Some diners use a small free lot when it is available, but it fills quickly, so plan for street parking. Delivery runs through DoorDash and Uber, which makes it a solid takeout option if you want the menu but not the dining room. One review sums up the portion and tenderness: “Chicken and lamb kabobs, tender and cooked to our specs… So much good food!”

The Greek Souvlaki Shack is a reliable choice when you want a taverna meal and time to enjoy it. It is best for date nights, small celebrations, and long dinners, and less ideal for quick lunch runs. The atmosphere is calm enough to talk, the portions are generous, and the food feels steady rather than showy. If you want the taverna vibe without the downtown crowd, this is the safest pick in the guide.

Quick Service Souvlaki and Gyro Counters

Souvlaki wrap with tzatziki and onions Caption: Ottawa’s quick service Greek spots focus on full pitas and fast pickup.

Greek To Go (McArthur Ave, East End)

Greek To Go is the definition of fast, local Greek. The McArthur Ave spot is in the east end, open daily 11am to 8pm, and priced at $ with a typical spend of $10 to $20 per person. It is a bright, efficient strip mall counter setup in a small room that is clearly focused on speed over ambience. That is exactly what makes it useful: it is built for lunch, not for a long sit down meal.

The signatures here are simple and direct: gyro wraps, souvlaki sticks, and tzatziki, plus rice and potato sides that make the meal feel complete without a big spend. Local regulars call out the family deals as the best part of the menu, and many describe it as cheaper and fresher than food trucks when you want a fast Greek fix. If you are ordering for two, the souvlaki combo platter around $22 plus a salad is enough for a shared meal. The portions are generous, so you do not need to order extra sides unless you are particularly hungry, and the wraps tend to arrive warm and juicy, which is part of the draw for takeout.

The best time to go is weekday lunch, roughly 12pm to 2pm, when the counter is busy but efficient. Weekends swell after 5pm, and the dining room is minuscule, so plan for takeout. One practical warning is that weekend hours can be erratic, so calling ahead helps. If you want a lighter starter, falafel works well, and locals suggest asking for sauce on the side. If you want something different, the quinoa bowls add a bit of variety without losing the Greek flavour profile.

Parking is street only and can be inconsistent, which is why most people treat it as a grab and go stop. OC Transpo Route 24 runs nearby, and delivery is heavy on SkipTheDishes, which keeps the spot in the rotation for quick weekday meals. A local line that captures the value is: “Go check this awesome place out on McArthur Ave… Best family deals.”

Greek To Go shines when you want a fast, inexpensive Greek plate without extra decision making. The menu is not flashy, and the room is small, but the food is consistent and the portions are big. For east end lunch runs, it is one of the most reliable choices in the category.

Greek on Wheels (Multiple Locations)

Greek on Wheels is the citywide quick service option with multiple locations in Centretown and Orleans, and a reputation for big portions that travel well. It feels like a mobile empire that expanded from food truck energy into fast casual counters, with limited indoor seating that stays lively but sparse. It is the kind of place where you order, grab your food, and either eat quickly or take it home.

Hours run roughly 11am to 10pm, but they vary by location, so check your nearest shop before you go. The price range is $, with a typical spend of $12 to $22 per person. The core dishes are souvlaki platters, gyros, and salads, and the draw is consistent quality across the suburbs. A mixed souvlaki platter in the $26 range can feed two when paired with extra pita and a shared salad.

Timing matters most on weekends. Weekend peaks run noon to 3pm and 6pm to 8pm, so weekday ordering is the easiest way to avoid lines. The trade offs are small: patchy parking at the Orleans lot and weather dependent waits during the busiest summer weekends. For ordering strategy, locals say to add extra pita, skip the rice heavy plates if you want a lighter meal, and look for the spicy feta dip as a strong add on.

Transit access is better than most people expect, and parking is generally easy compared with downtown. The Centretown location sits near OC Transpo Route 11, and the Orleans location sits near Route 23. Delivery is widely available on Uber and DoorDash, which is one reason the brand is a frequent group order pick. When people recommend Greek on Wheels, it is because the platters are large, the flavours are consistent, and the order process is simple.

The local quote that captures the menu style is direct: “Souvlaki platters are the best… potatoes, rice pilaf, and Greek salads.” That line sums up why people line up here. On busy nights, you will see lines form for overflowing trays, especially when group orders hit the counter.

Greek on Wheels works best when you need to feed a group without planning a sit down dinner. If you are ordering for four or more, choose a mix of platters and salads, then add extra pita and tzatziki. That strategy keeps the meal simple and lets everyone build their own plate.

Greek Bakeries and Dessert Counters

Baklava and loukoumades on a tray Caption: Greek bakeries in Ottawa focus on pastries that travel well and feel special even on quick visits.

Nutty Greek Bake Shop (The Glebe)

Nutty Greek Bake Shop is the dessert stop locals actually drive across town for. It sits at 490 Rochester St, Ottawa ON K1S 4L8 in The Glebe, with an entrance on Beech, and runs Tue to Fri 8am to 6pm with weekend hours that vary. It is a cozy bakery and dining hybrid with sweet savoury aromas and eclectic tables that make it feel more like a neighbourhood patisserie than a restaurant.

The price range is $, with a typical spend of $5 to $15 per person. The staples are baklava, loukoumades, spanakopita, and gyros, but the shop is best known for the pastry counter. The experience is intentionally small and personal, which is why people describe it as a little bakery in Greece with a tiny, fragrant, Nonna’s kitchen vibe rather than a full dining room. The rare frappe is a quiet highlight, and the counter often feels like the real reason people are there.

Timing makes a big difference. Weekday mornings are the calmest, while weekend brunch hours from 10am to 2pm can be crowded. For two people, a baklava platter plus a small souvlaki order around $20 can be enough for a light meal, especially if you add coffee. The room is small and parking can be scarce on busy Glebe streets, so it is best to treat this as a quick stop rather than a long sit down.

Locals mention a few ordering tips. Pair loukoumades as a starter if you want something warm, and add halva if you want a different texture from baklava. If you are more interested in savoury food, skip the heavier sweets and focus on the savoury pastries. Because the dining space is small, the best strategy is to buy a mixed box and take it home.

Parking is street parking, the O-Train is nearby, and OC Transpo Route 4 is the easiest bus option. Nutty Greek has been on Uber Eats and is occasionally listed on DoorDash, but the best experience is still in person, when you can pick the freshest pastry. The TripAdvisor line that shows up often is: “If you missed your greek holidays… I got baklava, pastries, gyros… Everything tasted amazing!”

Nutty Greek is not a full dinner stop; it is the bakery moment that makes a Greek food day feel complete. If you want dessert that tastes handmade, this is the most reliable choice in the city.

Upscale and Modern Greek Mediterranean Nights

Upscale Greek dining with seafood and wine Caption: Modern Greek dining in Ottawa leans into seafood, wine, and a slower, more polished pace.

Med Supper Club (Hintonburg)

Med Supper Club is the clear upscale Greek Mediterranean option in this guide. It is at 521 Parkdale Ave, Ottawa ON in Hintonburg, open in the evenings Wed through Sun, and priced at $$$ with a typical spend of $40+ per person. The menu calls out grilled octopus, galaktoboureko, and seafood saganaki, and the point is a chef driven fusion menu with craft cocktails rather than a classic taverna plate.

The dining room is upmarket and lounge like, with dim lighting and plush seating that makes it feel like a date night destination rather than a casual drop in. The best window is midweek evenings, roughly 7pm to 9pm, which tends to be calmer than weekend nights. A common ordering approach for two is a shared meze and souvlaki order around $35, then one or two additional small plates depending on appetite.

Reservations are required and should be booked early, especially for weekend nights. Parking can be tight despite the free lot, so give yourself extra time. If you want to keep sauces from overpowering the dish, ask for sauces on the side, and treat saganaki as the best starter rather than a side. Some locals suggest skipping basic pitas here and focusing on the more focused plates that justify the higher price.

Transit access is solid; OC Transpo Route 2 runs nearby. Delivery is limited, which is a sign that the experience is designed for in house dining. Expect a slower meal, more attention to plating, and a room that feels designed for conversation, often with live music and the occasional flaming cheese presentation paired with wine flights. If you want to combine it with a night out, it can pair well with the breweries guide, but it is also strong enough to stand alone as the main event.

Med Supper Club is the choice for people who want Greek flavours with a modern, upscale frame. It is not the best value per dollar, but it is the most polished dining room and the most intentional experience in the guide.

Yorgo’s (Centretown)

Yorgo’s is described as a Centretown, dinner focused Greek spot with a higher end vibe. It carries a $$$ price range, with signature orders that include lamb moussaka and fresh fish. The dining room is described as classic and nostalgic, with checkered tables and a warm, homey energy that makes it feel more traditional than a modern supper club.

The busiest window tends to be after 5pm on weekends, while weekdays are usually calmer. A common order for two is a platter duo around $24, which makes it an appealing option for a nicer meal without the full Med Supper Club price point. Some reviews mention inconsistent service and the usual downtown street parking challenges, so it is best to plan with a little extra time.

If you want a fuller meal, an extra calamari order is often mentioned as a good add on. Delivery is reported as popular through DoorDash, which suggests a steady takeout audience as well. Transit access is easiest via OC Transpo Route 11. Yorgo’s is a better fit for people who want a quieter, more classic dining room rather than a modern lounge.

For celebrations and group dinners, Yorgo’s offers a calm, traditional setting. Reservations are described as essential, and it is the kind of place that rewards planning ahead rather than walking in at peak time.

Family and Suburban Greek Spots

Family dinner table with Greek platters Caption: Suburban Greek spots in Ottawa focus on large platters and easy parking for families.

Greek Plus (Orleans)

Greek Plus is the Orleans pick for families and larger groups. It is described as a bright, airy, family oriented dining room with ample tables and a suburban layout that makes the meal feel relaxed. The menu leans heavily on platters, which is exactly what families want when the goal is to feed everyone without making ten different choices.

The most common order for two plus people is a large platter in the $27 range, which is enough for a shared meal when combined with a salad. Locals recommend skipping fries and adding dolmades instead if you want a more traditional side. Parking is a clear advantage here, with easy lot access, and transit access includes OC Transpo Route 23. Delivery is listed via Uber Eats, so it is an easy option for a family dinner at home.

The simple review that keeps showing up is: “Great service, great food! 100% recommend.” That summary fits the role Greek Plus plays in Orleans - it is the safe, reliable family dinner choice rather than a high concept restaurant. If you want Greek food without the downtown drive, this is the simplest pick.

Greek Souvlaki House / Rivergate (Kanata and Barrhaven)

Greek Souvlaki House in the Rivergate area is the west end counterpart to Greek Plus. It is described as spacious and banquet ready, and the dining room has a modern layout with booth seating that works for groups and family dinners. This is the kind of place people choose when they want to sit down, order platters, and not worry about parking.

A common order for two is a bowl or platter around $28, which gives you enough food to share if you add a salad or extra pita. The menu notes that new bowls are a must try option, and locals recommend sauce on the side to keep the meal balanced. Hours can vary, so it is worth checking ahead before you drive out.

Parking is easy, and transit access includes OC Transpo Routes 61 and 62. A review line that captures the impression is: “Excellent - very flavorful… great lunch or quick dinner.” That sums up why this spot shows up in west end Greek conversations - it is a practical, reliable choice, especially when you have a group and want room to spread out.

Greek Food by Neighbourhood in Ottawa

Ottawa street scene with cafes and shops Caption: Ottawa’s Greek food scene is spread across the core and the suburbs, so your neighbourhood matters.

The easiest way to choose Greek food in Ottawa is to think by neighbourhood. Most of the Greek options are not clustered on a single street; they are spread across the Market, Centretown, and the suburbs. Here is the neighbourhood map that locals use when they want to keep driving and parking simple.

ByWard Market: Cozmos is the most reliable Greek pick when you are in the Market. It is the practical choice for late night food or a pre event dinner, and it works best if you are walking or taking transit. If you are planning a Market route, check the ByWard Market guide to plan walking and parking.

Centretown and Westboro: Greek on Wheels is the easy group option for these areas. For a full Centretown night, combine it with the Westboro guide if you are heading west, or with the Ottawa nightlife guide if you are staying downtown.

The Glebe: Nutty Greek Bake Shop is a highlight here, which fits well with a slow afternoon walk. Pair it with The Glebe shopping and cafes, and you can use the Glebe guide to plan the rest of the day.

Hintonburg: Med Supper Club is the upscale anchor in this neighbourhood, and it is the best place to set aside for a reservation and a longer meal.

Orleans: The Orleans pick is Greek Plus, which is described as having great service and family platters. It is a dependable family dinner option, and it pairs well with the east end planning in the Orleans guide.

Kanata and Barrhaven: The west end pick is Greek Souvlaki House (Rivergate), noted for being spacious and banquet ready. It is the kind of place you choose when you need room for a larger group. If you want a broader west end plan, the Kanata guide helps map the area.

Neighbourhood mapping is not just about location; it is about the kind of meal you want. Downtown Greek is quick and busy, while suburban Greek is slower and easier to park. If you are planning with kids or a larger group, the suburbs win. If you want a quick meal before a night out, the core is faster.

Caption: Greek menus in Ottawa lean on classic dishes, so learning the names helps you order faster.

Souvlaki: Grilled skewers of meat, usually chicken or pork, sometimes lamb. In Ottawa it usually comes as a platter with lemon potatoes and salad or as a wrap. It is the safest first order at most Greek spots.

Gyro: A wrap built on shaved meat and toppings, often served in pita with tzatziki. Ottawa gyro wraps tend to be hearty and slightly messy, so ask for sauce on the side if you want to keep the bread from getting soggy.

Moussaka: A baked dish layered with meat and eggplant, often finished with a creamy top. It is usually heavier and best ordered as a main dish rather than a side.

Saganaki: A pan fried cheese dish often served hot. Many Ottawa tavernas treat it as the signature appetizer, and it works best when you order it early and share.

Spanakopita: Spinach and feta wrapped in pastry. It is a reliable starter or bakery snack and travels well in takeout.

Loukoumades: Small fried dough balls often drizzled with syrup. In Ottawa these are best at bakeries like Nutty Greek, where they are made fresh rather than reheated.

Galaktoboureko: A custard filled pastry with syrup. It is richer than baklava and best split with another dessert if you are ordering after a full meal.

Dolmades: Grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs. These show up as a classic side or appetizer and are a good add on when you want something lighter than fries.

Tzatziki: Yogurt, cucumber, and garlic dip. It is the most important sauce on the table and works with everything from meat to bread to potatoes. In Ottawa it is often used as the main dip rather than a side.

Greek salad (Horiatiki): A salad with tomato, cucumber, feta, and olives. Ottawa portions are usually large, so one salad is often enough for two people. If you want extra feta or olives, most places add it for a small fee.

Lemon potatoes: Roasted or baked potatoes finished with lemon and herbs. Ottawa Greek plates almost always include them, and they are one of the most consistent side dishes across the city. If you are ordering for two, you can treat them as the shared side instead of fries.

Rice pilaf: A mild, slightly buttery rice side that appears on platters and combo plates. It is filling but not essential, so many locals skip it when they want a lighter meal or when they already plan to share a salad and pita.

Feta: The salty white cheese that anchors most Greek salads and many pastries. In Ottawa, feta is usually included in the salad by default, but extra feta or olives often comes as a small add on.

Pita: The soft flatbread that holds wraps and scoops dips. Ask for it warm and keep sauce on the side if you want it to stay soft without turning soggy, especially for takeout.

Learning these terms makes Ottawa Greek ordering easier because most menus rely on the same core dishes. Once you know which items are grilled, which are baked, and which are fried, you can build a meal quickly. In practice, a souvlaki platter, a Greek salad, and a side of tzatziki is the fastest way to understand the flavour profile without guessing.

Best Value Picks, Best Upscale Picks, and First Timer Orders

Greek souvlaki platter with salad and pita Caption: The best first Greek order in Ottawa is a souvlaki platter with salad, pita, and lemon potatoes.

If you want the best Greek food value in Ottawa, Cozmos and Greek To Go are the two safest picks. Both are priced under $20 for a full meal, both focus on classic souvlaki and gyro plates, and both can feed two people if you order a shared platter and add extra pita. If you are working within a strict budget, combine these with the best cheap eats guide for a broader list of value meals across the city. In the suburbs, Greek Plus and Greek Souvlaki House are also strong value options because the portions are large and the dining rooms are built for families.

For upscale Greek, Med Supper Club is the standout. The pricing is higher, but the experience is more polished, and the kitchen leans into seafood and plated dishes rather than large platters. If your group tends to prefer European style dining, it is the closest thing Ottawa has to a modern Greek Mediterranean supper club. Yorgo’s is a second option when you want a traditional dining room but still want a more formal dinner than a quick counter.

For first timers, the safest order is consistent across almost every Greek kitchen in Ottawa: a souvlaki platter and a Greek salad, with the salad ordered village style and without extra add ons. The salad is almost always large, the grilled meat gives you the core flavour profile, and the pita makes it easy to share. Add tzatziki early, and treat the pita as a scoop rather than an extra side. This is the ordering move that locals repeat again and again, because it keeps the meal balanced without over ordering.

If you want to stretch the meal further, split one platter and add a small side. In most spots, one Greek salad is enough for two people. The expansion notes add a practical detail: Greek salads often cost $8 to $10, and the feta and olive add on is around $2, so add it only if you really want the extra topping. If you are worried about onion, skip it, and keep the salad clean and crisp. A warm pita with sauce on the side keeps the bread from drying out.

Greek Food Comparison Table: Ottawa at a Glance

Restaurant	Price	Best For	Standout Dish
Cozmos Souvlaki	$	Value and takeout	Souvlaki platter
Greek Souvlaki Shack	$$	Date night	Lamb kabobs
Nutty Greek Bake Shop	$	Desserts	Baklava
Greek on Wheels	$	Groups	Gyro wrap
Greek To Go	$	Lunch	Family platter
Med Supper Club	$$$	Upscale	Saganaki
Greek Plus	$	Orleans families	Moussaka
Greek Souvlaki House	$$	Suburb groups	Chicken souvlaki

Local Tips, Portions, Parking, and Warnings

Greek salad with feta and olives Caption: Ottawa Greek salads are often large enough to share, so order sides carefully.

Greek food in Ottawa is generous, which is the first practical tip. Portions often feed two people, especially when you order platters. Start with tzatziki and pita, then add a platter once you see how hungry the table is. Salads are massive, so you can skip extra sides if the table is small. If you want to stretch the meal, add one extra pita and share everything family style.

Timing matters. The best wait time window is 2pm to 5pm, when most kitchens have no rush and the dining rooms are quiet. If you go to a Market spot like Cozmos on a Friday or Saturday, expect 20 to 30 minute waits, and for quick service places, peak weekends can reach 30+ minute lines. As one r/ottawa comment puts it, “Everything thing is good here! …consistently tasty and reasonable.” That consistency is the reason people wait, but the off peak window is the way to avoid those lines.

Parking is another place where the neighbourhood split matters. ByWard Market street parking is chaotic, while suburban locations have larger lots and easier entry. If you are in the Market, plan to walk or take transit. If you are in Orleans or Kanata, plan to drive and use the lots. For Vanier, expect street parking and a little walking, especially during dinner rush.

One practical warning: Nutty Greek Bake Shop is tiny and hours can be inconsistent, especially on weekends, so it is worth calling ahead if you are driving out for pastries. The upside is that Nutty’s frappe is a hidden gem when you catch it fresh, and a good reminder that some of the best Greek food in Ottawa is a small bakery rather than a big dining room.

A final detail from local tips: pitas can dry out quickly if they are wrapped too tight or soaked in sauce. Ask for pita warm, keep sauce on the side, and wrap loosely if you are packing it for later. This simple move keeps the bread from turning soggy and makes leftovers taste closer to fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Food in Ottawa

Greek food table with shared plates Caption: Greek meals in Ottawa work best when the table shares a few classic plates.

Q: What is the best Greek food in Ottawa for a first timer?

The simplest, most reliable first order is a souvlaki platter with a Greek salad and extra pita for sharing. Cozmos and The Greek Souvlaki Shack are the easiest first time tavernas, while Greek To Go is the easiest quick service option. Stick to classic lemon potatoes, tzatziki, and a village style salad to understand the base flavours before branching out.

Q: Where should I go for Greek desserts in Ottawa?

Nutty Greek Bake Shop in The Glebe is the most focused dessert and pastry stop. It is known for baklava, loukoumades, and spinach pies, and it feels like a tiny Greek bakery rather than a sit down restaurant. The best approach is to pick a mixed box and take it home.

Q: Which Greek spot is best for date night?

The Greek Souvlaki Shack is the most reliable date night taverna because the room is intimate and the menu is classic. If you want a more polished, upscale dinner, Med Supper Club is the standout. Yorgo’s is another strong choice for celebrations where you want a quieter, more formal atmosphere.

Q: What is the best Greek takeout in Ottawa?

Cozmos, Greek To Go, and Greek on Wheels are the three easiest takeout picks. Cozmos covers the Market and late night, Greek To Go is the budget friendly lunch stop, and Greek on Wheels is the easiest group order because the platters are large and consistent.

Q: Are there good Greek options in Orleans or Kanata?

Yes. Orleans has Greek Plus, known for reliable service and family platters, while the Kanata and Barrhaven area leans on Greek Souvlaki House (Rivergate), a spacious, banquet ready option that works well for larger groups.

Q: Do I need reservations for Greek restaurants in Ottawa?

Most quick service and casual tavernas are walk in only. The Greek Souvlaki Shack is usually fine without a reservation, though calling ahead helps at dinner. Med Supper Club and Yorgo’s are the two spots where reservations are expected, especially on weekends.

Q: What are the best value Greek meals under $20?

Cozmos and Greek To Go are the most consistent sub $20 picks. Both offer full plates and generous portions, and both deliver well if you want to eat at home instead of dining in.

Q: How do I avoid long waits at popular Greek spots?

Aim for the 2pm to 5pm window, arrive early on weekend nights, and choose suburban locations with larger dining rooms and parking lots. Market spots like Cozmos are busiest on Friday and Saturday evenings, so weekday lunches are the easiest option.

Q: Which Greek restaurants in Ottawa deliver through apps?

Delivery options vary by restaurant. Cozmos uses Uber Eats and Skip, Greek Souvlaki Shack runs on DoorDash and Uber, Greek To Go uses Skip, and Greek on Wheels appears on Uber and DoorDash. Nutty Greek has been on Uber Eats and sometimes DoorDash, while Med Supper Club has limited delivery.

Q: Is Greek food in Ottawa good for families with kids?

Yes. Most Ottawa Greek kitchens are built around platters and familiar flavours, which makes them easy for kids. Greek Plus and Greek Souvlaki House are the most family oriented because they have larger dining rooms and easy parking. Cozmos also works for families because the portions are generous and the flavours are mild, especially if you keep sauces on the side. A safe family order is one platter, one salad, extra pita, and a side of lemon potatoes.

Q: What should I order if I want a lighter Greek meal?

Choose a Greek salad, grilled veggies, and a smaller portion of souvlaki instead of a full platter. Many locals skip the heavier rice and rely on salad and pita to feel full. Falafel is another lighter option at Greek To Go, and a single skewer with salad can be enough if you are not very hungry. Asking for sauce on the side helps keep the meal fresh and less heavy.

Q: How do I keep Greek takeout from getting soggy?

The easiest move is to keep sauces and bread separate. Ask for tzatziki and other sauces on the side, keep pita in its own bag, and wait to assemble the wrap until you are ready to eat. If you are rewarming the meal, heat the pita quickly and keep the salad cold. This simple separation keeps the bread soft and the meat crisp even after travel.

Final Summary

Greek food spread with grilled meat and dips Caption: Ottawa’s Greek food scene is best when you keep it simple and share a few classic plates.

Ottawa’s Greek food scene is not huge, but it is dependable. Cozmos remains the best Market value, The Greek Souvlaki Shack is the most consistent sit down taverna, Greek on Wheels handles group orders, and Med Supper Club is the upscale dinner choice. Nutty Greek Bake Shop is the dessert stop that turns a quick visit into a highlight. If you are new to Greek food, start with a souvlaki platter and a village salad, then add pita and tzatziki and share everything family style. That simple approach gets the best out of the city’s Greek kitchens without over ordering.

Sources

Notebook and laptop with restaurant research Caption: Sources help keep hours, prices, and locations accurate.