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Best French Restaurants in Downtown

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5 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Cocotte Bistro restaurant
1. Cocotte Bistro
4.3
Awesome(874)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown
Booked 36 times today
Cocotte Bistro in Downtown Ottawa is a culinary gem that brings the essence of modern French cuisine right to your plate. This charming eatery offers an authentic Bistro experience with dishes that are both delectable and visually stunning, all crafted from locally sourced, fresh ingredients. Diners rave about the "excellent quality of food" and the "outstanding service," making it a sought-after spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner. The warm ambiance and stylish decor transport you straight to Paris, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable dining experiences. Cocotte Bistro consistently delivers "superb and delicious food," ensuring guests leave with smiles and full hearts.
A photo of Gitanes restaurant
2. Gitanes
4.7
Exceptional(658)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Downtown
Booked 16 times today
Gitanes in Downtown Ottawa is a seafood lover's paradise, renowned for its fresh, sustainably sourced seafood offerings. Located on lively Elgin Street, this fine dining establishment combines French culinary finesse with high-quality Canadian ingredients. Guests consistently rave about the seafood, with standout dishes like "phenomenal mussels" and "top-notch halibut" leaving a lasting impression. The unique offerings, such as razor clams and scallops, are expertly prepared and beautifully presented, making each bite a celebration of flavor. With its romantic ambiance and exceptional service, Gitanes is a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable seafood dining experience. Book a table today and savor the excellence!
A photo of Vain In Versailles Bistro restaurant
3. Vain In Versailles Bistro
4.6
Exceptional(133)
Price: Moderate
• French • Little Italy
Booked 2 times today
Vain In Versailles Bistro, nestled in the heart of Ottawa's Little Italy, is a beacon of authentic European dining with a contemporary twist. Celebrated for its creative French cuisine, the bistro offers a fully gluten-free menu, dazzling diners with "robust, creative, and flavorful dishes." Guests rave about the exceptional quality, noting that "every dish was perfectly executed and presented." The restaurant's exquisite offerings, including a sublime duck confit and delectable desserts, are paired with an exceptional wine list, enhancing the dining experience. With a cozy, welcoming ambiance and attentive service, Vain In Versailles Bistro truly stands out as a "must-visit" for lovers of European gastronomy.
A photo of Absinthe Cafe Resto Bar restaurant
4. Absinthe Cafe Resto Bar
4.5
Awesome(92)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown
Booked 2 times today
Absinthe Cafe Resto Bar in downtown Ottawa is a testament to the excellence of Contemporary French cuisine. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients from Eastern Ontario and Western Quebec, the restaurant crafts dishes that are both inventive and rooted in classical French culinary techniques. Guests rave about the "phenomenal, lovely farm-to-table experience" and commend the "excellent food" and "amazing service." The menu, which features delights such as beef Wellington and steak frites, is consistently praised for its quality and flavor. The ambiance is inviting, making it a "neighborhood favorite" that never fails to impress with its sophisticated and authentic offerings.
A photo of Ono restaurant
5. Ono
3.4
Very Good(4)
Price: Expensive
• French • Gatineau
Vivez une expérience culinaire chaleureuse et récompensez votre estomac en lui offrant un repas gourmand. Le Lounge Onō propose un espace convivial et décontracté, situé dans le complexe unique du Double Tree par Hilton. Enjoy a warm dining experience and reward your stomach with a gourmet meal. The Lounge Onō offers a friendly, casual space located in the unique Double Tree by Hilton complex.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • DanVIP
    Ottawa •21 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Outstanding in every aspect, from being greeted to service and consistently excellent food and drinks. Steak/frites are best in the city. Recently added escargot are perfection. Martinis are just too good!!!
    More info
    GitanesPrice: Very Expensive• French• Downtown
    •
    4.7
  • Sherill
    Ottawa •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Absinthe never fails to provide outstanding food. The chef's skill and his devotion to his craft are apparent in each plate. Whether it is the steak frit or the salad nicoise, the food is always superb. Absinthe is far from a new restaurant. It has aged like a fine wine. Kudos to the Chef, the kitchen staff and the servers who set an example of what fine dining should be.
    More info
    Absinthe Cafe Resto BarPrice: Expensive• French• Downtown
    •
    4.5
  • Kristen
    Calgary / Southern Alberta •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Jun 14, 2025
    Great place for brunch. We had a lovely brunch before my daughter’s wedding.
    More info
    Cocotte BistroPrice: Expensive• French• Downtown
    •
    4.3
  • Neal
    Montreal / Quebec •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on May 17, 2025
    What a treat it was to discover ViV! The menu is very creative and extremely well crafted, the cocktails are a revelation, the staff is very attentive and knowledgeable, and clearly enjoys seeing their guests enjoy what they present. And the fact that everything is gluten-free is just the icing on the cake! I'm almost afraid to rave about the place, though - it may become impossible to get a booking . . .
    More info
    Vain In Versailles BistroPrice: Moderate• Contemporary French• Little Italy
    •
    4.6
  • Mylea
    Los Angeles •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Aug 22, 2024
    Very nice place for lunch before heading to the spa.
    More info
    OnoPrice: Expensive• Bistro• Gatineau
    •
    3.4

Discover best French restaurants in Downtown

Discover the charm of French cuisine right in the heart of downtown Ottawa. Our curated selection of French restaurants encapsulates the essence of France, each establishment offering a unique blend of traditional and contemporary French dishes. From the rustic flavors of Provence to the sophisticated tastes of Parisian gastronomy, these eateries provide a comprehensive French dining experience tailored to please the palate of any gourmand. The dining scene in downtown Ottawa is vibrant and diverse, with French restaurants standing out for their commitment to authenticity, quality ingredients, and culinary excellence. Patrons can expect beautifully crafted menus featuring seasonal specialties and classic favorites, all served in atmospheres that range from the elegantly casual to the exquisitely formal. These establishments not only prioritize a superb dining experience but also emphasize a friendly and attentive service, ensuring a memorable meal. Whether you're a lover of fine dining or a newcomer to French cuisine, downtown Ottawa's French restaurants offer a delightful culinary journey that's not to be missed.

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