Ottawa Restaurants

We had a great evening. Ambience was great. Food was awesome

Dinner for 2 to celebrate wife’s birthday. Booked through OpenTable requesting for top floor and was so happy they were able to accommodate this request. Jillian was our waitress for the evening and she was super fun along with the other staff who helped in between the service. The service team really made the experience more enjoyable, it’s great being able to banter with staff that are engaging and social. Food was great from starter/apps to main and dessert. Recommend the Gnudi (appetizer) if it’s being offered; make sure to order some bread because the sauce can’t be missed. Wife had the Quail and I had the Beef Short Rib; both dishes were yummy and each dish had their own distinct flavour profiles. As for dessert, we shared the Chai Tea Crème Brûlée. Portions were spot on for the both of us that I could have easily passed on the dessert but since every dish we ate that evening was yummy, we had to try at least one item. As for drinks, we’re not drinkers but I had their Moscow Mule mocktail and it was good. It was refreshing enough that it cut out the richness of the dishes we ate, so I sipped it throughout dinner. I gave the atmosphere/ambience a 4/5 because there was a lot of empty space that could be filled with large plants (real or fake) to really compliment and add contrast to the warm atmosphere they already have in place. I think having some greenery would also help with reducing some of the ambient noise and chatter from patrons because when it was busy (died down around 9ish) the noise really filled the whole space. Thank you Jillian and Gezellig for the great service and dinner!

I visited Joey Rideau last night for my anniversary dinner and it didn't disappoint! Despite being so crowded, servers were thoughtful and engaging. The food was marvelous - a great mix of flavour combinations and I also appreciated the kitchen serving shared dishes in two separate plates- while maintaining presentation. The cocktails we tried were also really good with a unique blend of flavour profiles. Dim lights and contemporary music uplifted the ambience, while the acoustics ensured noise decibels didn't reach a disturbing level, despite the restaurant being at full capacity. Definitely worth a second visit!

Great food, good service and nice decor near the lobby area.

Our first visit to Cantina Gia was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived, we were embraced by an ambiance of comfort and calm. The warm decor and soft lighting set the stage for a relaxing evening. What truly elevated the experience was the impeccable service. The staff struck a perfect balance—attentive yet unobtrusive. Their quiet professionalism made everything feel seamless and welcoming. We began with the Gigi Mocktail, a beautifully presented, refreshingly balanced non-alcoholic drink. As we sipped, we admired the vibrant cocktails served to others—visually stunning and clearly crafted with care. The restaurant's atmosphere is a blend of intimacy and liveliness. Early in the evening, it's serene, but by the end, the volume of fellow diners picked up. For a quieter experience, consider booking earlier. Cantina Gia is more than a restaurant; it's a sanctuary. Whether you're catching up with a friend or enjoying a quiet solo meal, the space adapts effortlessly to your needs. It feels like a place where you truly belong. The food elevated the evening even further. We shared Arancini—crispy on the outside with a creamy center, showcasing skill and attention to detail. For mains, I had the Mushroom Mafaldine, a generous plate of perfectly al dente pasta in a vibrant arugula pesto. My friend’s Ricotta and Lemon Agnolotti struck a beautiful balance of richness and brightness, each bite a delight. As mentioned, the service deserves a special mention—graceful, warm, and thoughtful. The staff made us feel like honored guests in their home. Leaving Cantina Gia, we carried with us a sense of gratitude and joy. It's a rare gem, blending elegance, comfort, and culinary excellence. Whether you're a foodie or simply in search of a memorable evening, Cantina Gia is a place worth returning to again and again.