The holiday season calls for memorable meals, and Ottawa’s restaurants are ready to deliver! From elegant Christmas dinners at historic hotels to cozy neighbourhood bistros, the capital offers exceptional dining options for every celebration.
Whether you’re planning a family Christmas dinner, a festive date night, or a holiday party with friends, Ottawa’s restaurant scene has something special waiting. Book early—December tables fill fast at the city’s most sought-after establishments.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Ottawa’s best holiday dining ranges from the elegant Fairmont Château Laurier to intimate spots like Cocotte Bistro. Book well in advance—popular spots fill up weeks ahead. Expect special menus and festive atmospheres throughout December.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Season | December 2025 |
| 📍 Areas | ByWard Market, Centretown, Glebe, Westboro |
| 🎟️ Price Range | $$ to $$$$ |
| ⏰ Book Now | Popular dates filling fast |
Upscale Holiday Dining
Fairmont Château Laurier
Ottawa’s iconic castle hotel offers multiple festive dining experiences:
Zoe’s Restaurant
- Three-course New Year’s Eve dinner starting at $140/person
- Elegant setting overlooking Parliament Hill
- Holiday prix fixe menus throughout December
- Perfect for special celebrations
1912 on Yuletide Lane (Holiday Pop-Up)
- Themed holiday cocktails
- Festive atmosphere and decorations
- Unique seasonal experience
- Instagram-worthy setting
Afternoon Tea
- Traditional service with holiday touches
- Perfect for family gatherings
- Advance reservations essential
Illustrative image only.
e18hteen Restaurant
For a truly luxurious experience:
- 5-course New Year’s Eve tasting menu starting at $145/person
- Features wagyu steak, oysters, and venison
- One of Ottawa’s most celebrated fine dining rooms
- Historic ByWard Market location
Riviera
Upscale dining with versatile options:
- Private dining spaces available
- Banker’s Office and Cellar Vault rooms (12 guests each)
- Full restaurant buyout for larger parties (60 seated/140 standing)
- Gourmet dinner menu with holiday touches
- Sophisticated atmosphere for corporate events
Beckta Dining & Wine
Ottawa’s destination for wine lovers:
- Award-winning wine program
- Seasonal tasting menus
- Intimate setting perfect for holiday celebrations
- High-end ingredients prepared with expertise
Mid-Range Favorites
Cocotte Bistro
French elegance at accessible prices:
- Christmas Day Dinner - three-course menu
- Authentic French cuisine for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner
- Kids’ menu options for family gatherings
- Elegant but welcoming atmosphere
- Perfect for smaller groups
The Corner Peach
A unique boutique dining experience:
- Restaurant + boutique shop combination
- Private dining for groups of 6-10
- Small plates, large plates, and sweets
- Find Christmas gifts while you dine
- Charming Hintonburg location
Starling Restaurant & Bar
Versatile holiday options:
- Weekend brunch with live music
- Daily early bird happy hour
- Special holiday events packages for parties
- Accommodates brunch, lunch, dinner, or dessert
- Great for corporate Christmas gatherings
NeXT Restaurant (Stittsville)
A suburban gem worth the drive:
- Christmas Dinner @ Home takeout option
- New Year’s Eve celebration with prix fixe menu
- Live DJ and dancing after dinner
- Creative cuisine outside downtown
Private Dining Options
Best for Large Groups
| Restaurant | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Riviera | Up to 140 | Corporate events |
| Fairmont venues | Varies | Grand celebrations |
| Starling | Varies | Office parties |
| Beckta | Smaller groups | Wine-focused events |
Intimate Gatherings
For smaller, special occasions:
- Corner Peach - 6-10 guests in private setting
- Cocotte Bistro - Elegant small group option
- Riviera’s private rooms - 12 guests each
- Chef’s tables at select restaurants
Neighbourhood Picks
ByWard Market
The heart of Ottawa dining:
- Proximity to Christmas markets and festivities
- Walking distance between restaurants and entertainment
- Variety from casual to fine dining
- Atmosphere buzzing with holiday energy
The Glebe
Trendy neighbourhood dining:
- Connected to Lansdowne and Christmas Market
- Boutique restaurants with character
- Shopping before or after dinner
- Festive street decorations
Westboro
Ottawa’s foodie destination:
- Award-winning restaurants clustered together
- Walkable neighbourhood feel
- Quality without downtown prices
- Parking easier than downtown core
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Booking Tips
When to Reserve
Holiday dining requires advance planning:
| Event | Book By |
|---|---|
| Christmas Eve Dinner | Early December |
| Christmas Day Brunch/Dinner | November |
| New Year’s Eve | Early November |
| December weekends | 2-3 weeks ahead |
How to Book
Multiple channels available:
- OpenTable - Many Ottawa restaurants listed
- Restaurant websites - Direct booking often available
- Phone calls - Sometimes gets better tables
- In person - For regulars or special requests
What to Expect
Holiday dining often differs from regular service:
- Prix fixe menus common during holidays
- Limited à la carte at peak times
- Higher prices for special occasions
- Longer meal times - plan accordingly
- Deposit requirements for large groups
Budget-Friendly Holiday Options
Not every celebration needs luxury prices:
Casual Festive Dining
- Elgin Street Diner - Classic comfort food
- Local pubs with holiday menus
- Ethnic restaurants open during holidays
- Breakfast/brunch instead of dinner
Christmas Day Options
Finding restaurants open December 25:
- Hotel restaurants typically open
- Some ethnic cuisines traditionally operate
- OpenTable filter for Christmas Day availability
- Call ahead to confirm hours
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which Ottawa restaurants are open Christmas Day? A: Major hotel restaurants like those at Fairmont Château Laurier typically remain open. Use OpenTable’s Christmas Day filter to see current availability, and always call to confirm.
Q: How far in advance should I book for New Year’s Eve? A: Popular restaurants may book up in early November. For the best selection, reserve as soon as you know your plans. Less popular time slots (early evening) may have more availability.
Q: Do Ottawa restaurants offer vegetarian/vegan holiday menus? A: Many upscale restaurants accommodate dietary restrictions in their prix fixe menus. Call ahead to discuss specific needs and ensure the kitchen can prepare suitable options.
Q: What’s the average price for holiday dinner in Ottawa? A: Expect $60-100 per person at mid-range restaurants, $100-200+ at fine dining establishments. These prices typically include a multi-course meal but may not include beverages, tax, and gratuity.
Q: Can I book a private room for my office Christmas party? A: Yes, several restaurants offer private dining spaces. Contact Riviera, Starling, or larger establishments directly. Book early as December fills fast.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s holiday dining scene offers something for every celebration, from grand New Year’s Eve galas at the Château Laurier to intimate Christmas dinners at neighbourhood bistros. The key is planning ahead—the best tables go quickly during December.
Whether you’re treating family to an elegant Christmas meal, organizing the office party, or planning a festive date night, Ottawa’s restaurants are ready to make your holiday season delicious. Start making reservations now to secure your spot at the city’s best tables.
Bon appétit and happy holidays!
Source: OttawaRestos.ca, OpenTable, Ottawa Tourism - Compiled for Via Ottawa readers.
For more Ottawa dining guides, visit Where to Go or explore Ottawa Events!
