Ottawa's vegetarian and vegan dining scene is one of the most underrated in Canada. From fully plant-based spots to restaurants where veggie options are the clear stars, you won't go hungry eating meat-free in the capital.
Top Fully Vegetarian and Vegan Spots
Ahimsa in Centretown is one of Ottawa's most beloved fully vegan restaurants. The menu draws on Indian, Middle Eastern, and global flavours — the lentil dishes, curries, and wraps are rich and satisfying. It's consistently one of the top-rated spots on local food lists.
The Table Vegetarian Restaurant on Bank Street has been a Glebe institution for decades. They serve a rotating daily menu of fresh, made-from-scratch vegetarian food — think hearty grain bowls, seasonal soups, and creative salads. It's entirely vegetarian (with many vegan options) and very affordable.
Green Door Restaurant on Main Street in Old Ottawa East is a long-running cafeteria-style all-vegetarian restaurant that Ottawa residents swear by. It's casual, colourful, and incredibly good value for the amount and variety of food you get.
Plant-Based Friendly Restaurants
Many of Ottawa's top restaurants have strong vegetarian menus even if they're not fully plant-based:
- Zen Kitchen in Centretown is a popular upscale vegetarian and vegan-focused restaurant
- Pressed on Bank Street is a well-loved spot for plant-based sandwiches and pressed juices
- Sansotei Ramen (multiple locations) has solid tofu and vegetable ramen options
Neighbourhoods with Great Veggie Options
- Centretown/Bank Street: Several vegan-forward cafes and restaurants
- Chinatown (Somerset West): Buddhist vegetarian Chinese food at select spots
- The Glebe: The Table and several health-conscious cafes
- Hintonburg: A growing neighbourhood with creative plant-based menus
For a broader look at Ottawa's dining scene, visit our best restaurants in Ottawa guide, or browse things to do in Ottawa to plan your full day around a great meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ottawa a good city for vegans? Yes — Ottawa has a strong and growing vegan scene, with dedicated restaurants, vegan-friendly grocery stores like The Herb and Spice on Bank Street, and plenty of plant-based options at mainstream restaurants.
What is the oldest vegetarian restaurant in Ottawa? The Green Door Restaurant on Main Street, which has been serving all-vegetarian food since 1988, is one of Ottawa's longest-running vegetarian institutions.
Are there vegetarian options at Ottawa's food markets? Absolutely. The ByWard Market has several stalls and restaurants with excellent vegetarian options, and Parkdale Market is great for fresh produce to cook your own plant-based meals.
Where can I find vegan desserts in Ottawa? Several Ottawa bakeries now offer vegan options. Thimbleby's Bakehouse and some Glebe cafes carry vegan baked goods regularly.
