Since the late 1800s, diners have been the coziest place for a hot meal. Times have changed but, to this day, diners remain a place that transports you to the past while dining casually with family and friends. Ottawa is home to several classic diners that have stayed true to their times.
Zak’s Diner
— various locations
Famous for its milkshakes, Ottawa’s best-known and busiest diner has four locations. Family-owned, each Zak’s location makes you feel, well, right at home, like you are family. Their classic location in the heart of Ottawa’s ByWard Market has been open since the 1980s, and their newer spots on Elgin Street, Terry Fox Drive, Kanata, and Richmond Road in Westboro extend their brand right across the city. Always filled with visitors of all ages, Zak’s has a fun, cheerful atmosphere, a menu of everyone’s favourite comfort foods, and more! Open 24 hours on weekends; it’s the perfect spot for those late-night snacks. Be sure to try the Nutella milkshake, Zak Attack Burger, and of course, a side of curly fries!
The Wellington Diner
— 1385 Wellington Street West
Specializing in breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between, The Wellington Diner is the West End’s favourite diner, uses fresh ingredients to deliver the most reliable plates. They combine the bold and traditional, welcoming every taste. Visit 1385 Wellington St. W for delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a great time!
Photo: The Wellington Diner | Facebook
Elgin Street Diner
— 374 Elgin Street
Voted Ottawa’s best diner time and time again, Elgin Street Diner offers reasonably priced, impressively delicious diner dishes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Their determined staff kept the place open through ice storms, power outages, the Covid-19 pandemic, and more. Perfect for a family breakfast, a late-night feast, or their famous hangover breakfast served with poutine; you must stop in when visiting the capital. For dessert, be sure to try their peanut butter pie!
Photo: Elgin Street Diner | Facebook
The King Eddy
— 47 Clarence St.
More than just a diner, The King Eddy transports its visitors to the 60s-70s while they conquer some of the most generous servings in the area. Home to ‘Ottawa’s best burgers,’ tantalizing buckets of fried chicken, and so much more, The King Eddy has been a funky hangout spot for those young and old since 2014. Located in the ByWard Market, the restaurant is home to fond memories and a friendly atmosphere.
Photo: OLM Staff
