Westboro has quietly become one of Ottawa's best eating neighbourhoods, and Richmond Road is the main stage. Whether you're a longtime local or just discovering the area, this stretch delivers serious food in a relaxed, walkable package. Here's where to eat right now.
Pure Kitchen
For plant-based dining done right, Pure Kitchen on Richmond is a genuine standout. This isn't sad salads and grain bowls — the menu is inventive, the portions are generous, and even confirmed carnivores leave satisfied. The grain bowls and mushroom-based mains are consistently excellent. It's the kind of spot that makes going vegan feel less like a sacrifice and more like a good idea.
Byblos
Byblos brings Middle Eastern flavours to Westboro with a relaxed, neighbourhood-restaurant energy. The mezze spread is the move — order several small plates, some warm bread, and settle in. The hummus, roasted cauliflower, and grilled meats are all solid, and the room feels warm without being fussy. A reliable dinner spot that never disappoints.
La Roma
La Roma has been a Westboro institution for decades, and for good reason. Classic Italian comfort food — pastas, veal, house-made sauces — in a setting that feels genuinely welcoming. It's the kind of place where regulars get greeted by name. Go for a long Sunday dinner and don't rush.
Pizza Nerds
If you're in the mood for Neapolitan wood-fired pizza, Pizza Nerds is the answer. The pies come out of the oven with that perfect char on the crust, quality ingredients, and restraint — not piled high with every topping imaginable. The menu changes, but the classics never miss. Order at least two and split.
Sansotei Ramen
Ramen in a neighbourhood that skews heavily Italian and Middle Eastern? Yes, and it works beautifully. Sansotei serves rich, deeply flavoured broths with excellent noodles and the kind of toppings that make each bowl feel complete. The tonkotsu is exceptional. Lineup out the door on weekends, worth it every time.
The Chances
Not every night calls for a tasting menu. Sometimes you want a cold beer, a great burger, and a game on multiple screens — and The Chances delivers exactly that. A proper sports bar that takes its food seriously, with a crowd that's into it. Good vibes, solid wings, no pretension.
The Bottom Line
Westboro's restaurant scene is only getting better. Richmond Road has enough density that you can wander and find something good without a plan — but if you want a sure thing, any of the spots above will deliver. Save room for dessert and take the LRT home.
