The Glebe is one of Ottawa's most beloved neighbourhoods, and its dining scene along Bank Street and side streets is a big reason why. It's not as flashy as the ByWard Market, but the Glebe has depth — long-running favourites, great cafes, and some of the city's most cherished restaurants.
Top Glebe Restaurants
The Table Vegetarian Restaurant is a Glebe icon. It's been serving affordable, rotating-menu vegetarian food for years. The cafeteria-style setup might seem casual, but the food is genuinely good and the value is exceptional.
Absinthe Café on McLeod Street is one of Ottawa's most loved dinner spots. Chef Patrick Garland's menu changes regularly and draws on French and North American influences. The small back patio is one of the city's nicest. Reservations are a good idea.
D'Arcy McGee's Irish Pub on Bank Street is a classic for a reason — solid pub food, a warm atmosphere, and a reliable pint. Great for a casual meal.
Siam Bistro is a longtime Glebe favourite for Thai food. It's unpretentious, consistent, and the pad thai and curries are executed well.
Breakfast and Brunch Spots
- Pressed on Bank Street has excellent coffee and pressed sandwiches for lunch, plus a great brunch menu
- Prima Luna is a reliable Italian spot that works well for weekend brunch or dinner
- The Glebe Community Centre Café is a hidden daytime gem loved by locals
Quick Bites and Coffee
- Happy Goat Coffee on Elgin (close to the Glebe border) is a beloved indie coffee roaster with a strong following
- Several independent bakeries and sandwich shops dot Bank Street for grab-and-go meals
For more Ottawa dining picks, see our best restaurants in Ottawa guide. Also check things to do in Ottawa — the Glebe's Canal and Lansdowne Park make for a great full-day outing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Glebe a good neighbourhood to visit for dinner? Absolutely. The Glebe is one of Ottawa's most pleasant neighbourhoods to walk and dine in — the Bank Street strip has variety, and the side streets have quieter gems worth seeking out.
Is there good brunch in the Glebe? Yes — Pressed and a handful of cafes on Bank Street are popular brunch destinations. Weekend mornings get busy, so arrive before the rush or expect a short wait.
Are Glebe restaurants expensive? The Glebe has a good range. The Table is very affordable; Absinthe is mid-to-high end. Most restaurants land in the $20–$40 per person range for dinner.
How do I get to the Glebe from downtown Ottawa? The Glebe is a 15-minute walk from Parliament Hill or about a 5-minute drive south on Bank Street. OC Transpo Bus 1 (Bank Street) stops directly in the Glebe.
