Last Updated: January 1, 2026
From the legendary 40-day aged cuts at Al’s Steakhouse to the luxurious Wagyu offerings at Harmons, Ottawa’s steakhouse scene delivers everything from classic neighbourhood charm to upscale downtown sophistication for carnivores seeking the perfect sear.
The capital’s steak landscape spans nearly six decades of culinary tradition. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion at an elegant Elgin Street establishment, enjoying a business dinner with harbour views, or simply craving a perfectly cooked ribeye on a Wednesday night, Ottawa’s steakhouses cater to every mood and budget. This guide covers the city’s finest destinations for prime cuts, dry-aged beef, and that satisfying sizzle.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Al’s Steakhouse (since 1967) and Harmons Steakhouse dominate the Elgin Street fine dining scene with Wagyu and 40-day aged beef. Rosebowl in Little Italy offers classic steakhouse vibes since 1976. The Keg and Chop provide reliable chain quality. Expect $50-150+ per person at upscale spots, $35-60 at casual establishments.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏆 Best Overall | Al’s Steakhouse, Harmons Steakhouse |
| 💰 Upscale Range | $80-150+ per person |
| 💵 Mid-Range | $40-70 per person |
| 📍 Steak District | Elgin Street (downtown) |
| 🥩 Signature Style | 40-day aged, Wagyu, Prime cuts |
| 🍷 Best for Dates | Harmons, The Shore Club |
Al’s Steakhouse - Ottawa’s Legendary Institution
Al’s Steakhouse has served exceptional steaks since 1967
Address: 327 Elgin Street, Ottawa Phone: (613) 233-7111 Website: alssteakhouse.ca
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Al’s Steakhouse stands as Ottawa’s most storied steak destination, serving exceptional cuisine since July 1967. Founded by Halim “Al” Saikali, a Lebanese immigrant with a vision for quality, the restaurant quickly established itself as a premier dining destination for residents, visitors, and celebrities alike.
The Aging Difference
What separates Al’s from competitors is their commitment to proper aging. All steaks are aged a minimum of 40 days, allowing enzymes to break down muscle tissue for enhanced tenderness while developing concentrated, complex flavours that younger beef simply cannot match.
Signature Cuts
Al’s Australian A9 Wagyu represents the pinnacle of their offerings—a luxurious and highly prized beef known for extraordinary marbling, juiciness, and rich taste. This is destination dining for serious steak enthusiasts.
Classic Options include perfectly executed ribeye, New York strip, and filet mignon, each benefiting from the extended aging process.
The Experience
The dining room maintains an old-school steakhouse atmosphere without feeling dated. Professional service, an extensive wine list, and that unmistakable aroma of searing beef create an experience worth the premium pricing.
Pro Tip: Ask staff for wine pairing recommendations—they know their list intimately and can match bottles to your specific cut and preparation preference.
Harmons Steakhouse - Modern Luxury
Harmons occupies a beautifully restored 130-year-old building
Address: 283 Elgin Street, Ottawa Phone: (613) 421-4202 Website: harmonssteakhouse.com
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Just steps from the National Arts Centre, Harmons Steakhouse represents Ottawa’s most luxurious contemporary steak experience. The restaurant occupies a beautifully transformed 130-year-old building, blending historic architecture with modern elegance.
Premium Selections
USA Wagyu Gold Grade delivers intense marbling and incomparable taste—a must-try for any serious steak enthusiast. The American Wagyu programme produces beef with distinctive richness that rivals Japanese imports.
Canadian Prime Angus offers robust aroma with pronounced beefiness, representing the finest domestic beef available. This option appeals to diners who prefer classic steak flavour over Wagyu’s buttery richness.
Ribeye, Striploin, and Tenderloin round out the menu with varying textures and fat content to suit personal preferences.
Ambiance and Occasion
Harmons excels as a celebration destination. The sophisticated atmosphere, attentive service, and carefully curated cocktail programme create memorable evenings for anniversaries, birthdays, and business entertaining. Expect to dress appropriately—this isn’t casual dining.
Pro Tip: Order your steak medium-rare to fully appreciate the natural flavour of premium beef. Well-done orders at this price point sacrifice much of what makes quality cuts exceptional.
Rosebowl Steak & Seafood - Little Italy Classic
Rosebowl has anchored Little Italy’s dining scene since 1976
Address: 228 Preston Street, Ottawa Phone: (613) 729-4000 Website: rosebowlsteakhouse.com
Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday, Wednesday, Sunday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Rosebowl Steak & Seafood brings laid-back yet classy steakhouse energy to Preston Street’s Little Italy neighbourhood. Operating since 1976, they’ve perfected the balance between quality and approachability that keeps locals returning.
Standout Cuts
18oz Rib Steak (Prime) is the house signature—impressively sized and mouthwateringly succulent, perfect for those who enjoy a hearty, flavourful piece of meat without excessive refinement.
New York Cut Striploin (Prime) offers beautiful marbling with bold, beefy flavour and just the right amount of fat for self-basting during cooking.
Wine Programme
Rosebowl presents tempting bottles to pair with your steak, including Austrian Zahel Grüner Veltliner and French Chardonnay Pouilly-Fuissé. The list emphasizes food-friendly selections over showpiece bottles.
Pro Tip: Add a sauce for $5 to elevate your steak. The green peppercorn with red wine reduction delivers a savoury kick that complements rather than overwhelms quality beef.
For more Little Italy dining, see our Italian restaurants Ottawa guide.
The Shore Club - Waterfront Elegance
The Shore Club offers views of the iconic Rideau Canal
Address: 11 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa (Westin Hotel) Phone: (613) 569-5050 Website: theshoreclub.ca/ottawa
Hours:
- Monday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday to Friday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Located within the Westin Hotel steps from the Rideau Canal and ByWard Market, The Shore Club delivers more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Ottawa’s vibrant downtown culture with waterfront views.
Steak Selection
Bone-in Rib Steak provides impressive presentation and enhanced flavour from cooking on the bone.
New York Striploin ranks as the most popular choice, offering meaty flavour with slight exterior crispness when properly seared.
Short Rib and Sirloin options round out the menu for varying preferences and price points.
Beyond Steak
True to its name, The Shore Club also excels with seafood—making it ideal for dining parties with mixed preferences. The surf-and-turf combinations satisfy both carnivores and pescatarians.
Pro Tip: Gift cards start at $25, making Shore Club an excellent choice for sharing an unforgettable dining experience with business partners, friends, or family.
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Reliable Excellence
The Keg has set quality standards since 1971
Address: 376 Hunt Club Road, Ottawa Phone: (613) 248-0509 Website: thekeg.com
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar has served unforgettable steak nights since 1971. Founded by George Tidball on a simple vision—great food in a fun atmosphere—The Keg maintains consistent quality across its Canadian locations.
Signature Steaks
All steaks are aged for enhanced flavour and tenderness, then cooked with their signature Keg seasoning blend.
Blue Cheese Filet tops the menu for those who appreciate bold flavour combinations. The blue cheese crust creates a distinctive richness.
Baseball Top Sirloin offers excellent value—a substantial cut at accessible pricing without sacrificing quality.
Sirloin Oscar adds crab and asparagus for a surf-and-turf experience at reasonable cost.
The Keg Advantage
Chain consistency means you know exactly what to expect: reliable quality, predictable pricing, and professional service. For celebratory dinners where surprise isn’t desired, The Keg delivers every time.
Pro Tip: The Mushrooms Neptune appetizer pairs perfectly with any steak—a crowd favourite for garlic lovers.
Chop Steakhouse & Bar - Modern Canadian
Chop brings modern flair to classic steakhouse dining
Address: 250 West Hunt Club Road, Ottawa Phone: (613) 216-7265 Website: chop.ca
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Founded in 2006, Chop Steakhouse & Bar has grown into a beloved dining destination with over 17 locations across Canada. Executive Chef Stephen Clark leads a culinary team focused on innovative dining experiences.
The Cooking Method
Chop’s secret lies in their preparation: steaks are seasoned with Old Chicago steak spice and expertly seared in a Montague grill at 1800°F. This extreme heat creates a perfectly caramelized crust while keeping the interior at desired temperature.
Value Options
Extended hours (starting at 7:00 AM) make Chop versatile for business breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.
Pro Tip: Drop in during happy hour for discounted appetizers and drinks—a great chance to sample various dishes without committing to full dinner pricing.
Luxe Bistro - ByWard Market Sophistication
Luxe Bistro combines steakhouse quality with bistro approachability
Address: 47 York Street, Ottawa Phone: (613) 241-8805 Website: luxebistro.com
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 10:30 AM – 1:45 PM, 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Luxe Bistro provides an elevated yet contemporary dining experience in the heart of the ByWard Market. They artfully combine steakhouse sophistication with bistro warmth and comfort.
The Approach
Unlike traditional steakhouses that focus exclusively on beef, Luxe offers a broader menu while still delivering quality steak options. This makes it ideal for groups with varied dining preferences.
Location Advantage
The York Street location places you in Ottawa’s most vibrant entertainment district. Combine dinner with ByWard Market exploration for a complete evening out.
Steakhouse Comparison
Ottawa offers steakhouses for every occasion and budget
By Occasion
| Occasion | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Anniversary/Romance | Harmons | Elegant atmosphere, premium cuts |
| Business Dinner | The Shore Club | Professional setting, views |
| Birthday Celebration | Al’s Steakhouse | Historic reputation, excellent service |
| Casual Date Night | Rosebowl | Relaxed vibe, great value |
| Reliable Group Dinner | The Keg | Consistent quality, accommodates groups |
| After-Work Drinks + Steak | Chop | Happy hour, early opening |
By Budget
| Budget Level | Restaurant | Expect to Spend |
|---|---|---|
| Splurge ($100+) | Harmons, Al’s | Premium Wagyu, extensive wine |
| Special Occasion ($60-100) | Shore Club, Rosebowl | Quality cuts, good wine |
| Accessible ($40-60) | The Keg, Chop | Reliable steaks, full experience |
Tips for the Best Steak Experience
Proper ordering ensures the best steakhouse experience
Understanding Doneness
| Temperature | Description | Internal Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Rare | Cool red centre, seared outside | 115°F / 46°C |
| Rare | Cool red centre, warm edges | 125°F / 52°C |
| Medium-Rare | Warm red centre throughout | 135°F / 57°C |
| Medium | Pink centre, firmer texture | 145°F / 63°C |
| Medium-Well | Slight pink, mostly grey | 150°F / 66°C |
| Well-Done | No pink, fully cooked | 160°F / 71°C |
Recommendation: For premium cuts, medium-rare allows fat to render properly while preserving tenderness. Ordering expensive Wagyu well-done eliminates much of what you’re paying for.
Cut Selection
Ribeye - Most flavourful due to fat marbling; juicy and rich Striploin (NY Strip) - Balance of flavour and tenderness; slightly leaner than ribeye Filet Mignon (Tenderloin) - Most tender; milder beef flavour T-Bone/Porterhouse - Both striploin and tenderloin; best of both worlds Sirloin - Leaner and more affordable; good beefy flavour
Reservations
All upscale establishments (Harmons, Al’s, Shore Club) recommend reservations, especially for:
- Friday and Saturday evenings
- Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day
- Holiday season (December)
- Special occasions
Book 1-2 weeks ahead for weekend prime time; same-day reservations often available for weeknight dining.
FAQ
What is the best steakhouse in Ottawa?
Al’s Steakhouse and Harmons Steakhouse on Elgin Street consistently rank as Ottawa’s finest. Al’s offers 40-day aged beef with historic charm since 1967, while Harmons delivers modern luxury with Wagyu options in a beautifully restored heritage building.
How much should I expect to spend at Ottawa steakhouses?
Upscale establishments (Harmons, Al’s, Shore Club) typically run $80-150+ per person with wine. Mid-range options (Rosebowl, The Keg, Chop) cost $40-70 per person. Add $15-30 for quality wine pairings.
Do Ottawa steakhouses require reservations?
Reservations are strongly recommended for Harmons, Al’s Steakhouse, and The Shore Club, especially on weekends. The Keg and Chop often accommodate walk-ins but may have waits during peak hours.
Which steakhouse is best for a date night?
Harmons Steakhouse offers the most romantic atmosphere with its elegant heritage interior and premium menu. The Shore Club provides beautiful views of the Rideau Canal for waterfront ambiance.
What’s the difference between dry-aged and wet-aged beef?
Dry-aged beef (like Al’s 40-day aged) loses moisture in controlled conditions, concentrating flavour and developing complex nutty notes. Wet-aged beef is vacuum-sealed and retains more moisture but develops less distinct flavour. Most premium Ottawa steakhouses serve dry-aged cuts.
Do Ottawa steakhouses accommodate dietary restrictions?
Most steakhouses offer seafood alternatives and can accommodate allergies with advance notice. Vegetarian options are typically limited—consider bistro-style establishments like Luxe for mixed dining groups.
Which steakhouse has the best value?
Rosebowl Steak & Seafood offers excellent quality-to-price ratio with Prime cuts at accessible pricing. The Keg provides reliable consistency with lower price points than independent upscale establishments.
What should I order at my first steakhouse visit?
Start with a ribeye or New York striploin cooked medium-rare—these cuts showcase what quality beef should taste like. Add a simple side (baked potato, asparagus) to avoid overwhelming the main event.
Are Ottawa steakhouses good for business dinners?
The Shore Club and Harmons excel for business entertaining with professional atmospheres, private dining options, and impressive settings. Al’s Steakhouse carries historic prestige that impresses clients.
What cuts do Ottawa steakhouses serve?
Most serve ribeye, striploin (NY strip), filet mignon, sirloin, and often bone-in options like T-bone or porterhouse. Premium establishments add Wagyu varieties and specialty cuts like tomahawk ribeye.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s steakhouse scene rewards exploration beyond the familiar chains. While The Keg delivers reliable quality for casual celebrations, the city’s independent establishments offer experiences that justify their premium pricing through proper aging, quality sourcing, and atmospheres built over decades.
Al’s Steakhouse represents tradition—57 years of perfecting the craft in the same Elgin Street location. Harmons brings contemporary luxury to historic architecture. Rosebowl proves that Little Italy can compete with downtown for serious beef.
For the best experience, choose your restaurant based on occasion rather than simple hunger. Reserve ahead for special nights, trust your server’s recommendations, and order that steak medium-rare. Your taste buds will thank you.
Sources: Best in Ottawa, Yelp Ottawa, TripAdvisor, individual restaurant websites.
