Skip to Main Content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. Canada
  3. Ottawa
  4. Ottawa
  5. ByWard Market
Social - Ottawa, Ottawa, ON

Social - Ottawa

4.5
4.5
888 Reviews
CAN$51 and over
Bistro
Top Tags:

Opened in the summer of 1999, SOCIAL was received as the perfect blend of restaurant and bar. It was envisioned as a place where guests could enjoy an evening drink without feeling obligated to order dinner too, but where a sizzling menu meant that food was always an excellent option.

20 years later, SOCIAL continues to deliver. Known in the capital city for its ambiant and modern vibe, fifteen-foot ceilings, its secluded and beautiful courtyard patio, and gorgeous stone walls inside + out-- SOCIAL offers an unparalleled atmosphere for a sit-down dinner or some after-work cocktails. Guests can expect high-quality professional service and a menu to match, proving that SOCIAL is truly a downtown destination that has it all.

Come enjoy the culinary experience given by our Head Chef Peter Schulz and his team.
We do not have any live entertainment at the moment, but we hope to bring this concept back in the future!

Make a reservation

2 people
June 2022
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10:30 PM
Booked 36 times today
Private dining

Private dining

Book your next event with us

View details

Additional information

  • Dining style

    Casual Elegant

  • Cuisines

    Bistro, French / Canadian

  • Hours of operation

    Brunch Sat, Sun 11:00 am–3:00 pm Lunch Mon–Fri 11:45 am–3:00 pm Happy Hour Daily 3:00 pm–5:00 pm Dinner Daily 5:00 pm–10:00 pm

  • Phone number

    (613) 789-7355

  • Website

    http://www.social.ca/

  • Payment options

    AMEX, MasterCard, Visa

  • Dress code

    Business Casual

  • Executive chef

    Dave Godsoe

  • Private party facilities

    SOCIAL has a variety of private and semi private dining rooms and lounges to suit your event needs. We have dining rooms that are a perfect choice for small weddings, rehearsal dinners, client appreciation dinners, pharmaceutical presentations, special family occasions, networking events and more. These bookings are currently unavailable due to COVID regulations in place.

  • Private party contact

    Brittany Weston: (855) 805-9231

  • Location

    537 Sussex Drive Ottawa, ON K1N 6Z6

  • Neighborhood

    ByWard Market

  • Cross street

    George / York

  • Parking details

    We are located between George St. and York St. on Sussex Drive. You can find meter parking and 2 parking garages on York Street. Parking is also available across the street at 700 Sussex Drive and around the market area.Courtyard accessible by way of George and York St.

  • Public transit

    There are public transit stops on Rideau street and at the Rideau Center (which is within walking distance).

  • Entertainment

    Live music can be heard every Wednesday night in the summer on the Courtyard - a mix of jazz, acid jazz and blues. An assortment of DJs are spinning on Friday and Saturday nights all year round.

  • Additional

    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wine

Popular dishes

What 888 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.5
4.5 based on recent ratings
  • 4.5Food
  • 4.4Service
  • 4.6Ambience
  • 4.2Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

  • Ottawa

    Most Booked

  • Ottawa

    Most Booked

Sort by

Filters

  1. DR

    DenisR

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall4food5service4ambience3

    This was definitely one of the best meals I've had in a long time. The only reason it wasn't outstanding all around, the noise was one factor. It's a very noisy restaurant. Unfortunately, we were unable to sit outside because of potential rain. The other was the service. Although very pleasant, I kind of expect that when paying these kind of prices, the service should just be exceptional... I'm not sure if it's the new thing or if it's the new generation, but having to poor our own wine or push our plates to the edge of the table or wait to get our invoice... it just always surprises me... and then wanting a 20% or 30% tip... really?

  2. LR

    LaurieR

    Ottawa

    2 reviews

    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall3food4service3ambience2

    We were seated in the outdoor courtyard which was rows and rows of tables, like a food court. Not intimate or nice in any way. The service was slow. The food was tasty but cool upon arrival at the table, and expensive.

  3. ML

    MichelL

    Ottawa

    12 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    12 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    I will return for brunch certainly.

  4. DC

    DanielC

    Montreal

    4 reviews

    3.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall3food4service5ambience1

    After sitting at the table, we were informed that Saturday is DJ night. The noise was unbearable, we had to almost yell at one another across the table. Fortunately, our server found a table for us in a quieter section. Fantastic service, good food. Recommendation: go any night, but Saturday.

  5. RM

    RichardM

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    The Social restaurant was pleasant surprise. We booked this on Open Table just a jew hours before. The décor was new and very trendy The service from arrival to departure was exceptional. Good conversation and food service. Just right The mix of food offering is limited but very varied. Lots to choose from. The marinated corn beef (I know it doesn’t sound great) was AMAZING and a local creation All is made in house, and I would strongly recommend AAAA+ Cheers

  6. OT

    OpenTable Diner

    Ottawa

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    The food and staff are amazing! Surely will visit again 😊

  7. TC

    TiaC

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall4food4service5ambience4

    Excellent waiter! Brunch was fantastic, will be coming back for dinner!

  8. J

    Jenna

    Montreal

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on June 17, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    We came for drinks and the ambiance, service and atmosphere was fantastic. Would definitely recommend and will come back for a meal.

  9. MI

    MINKY

    Montreal

    6 reviews

    4.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on June 16, 2022

    overall4food4service5ambience5

    Food was great and service terrific. I think for a pricey lunch a bread basket should be included in the price. Otherwise lots of nice choices for lunch.

  10. M

    Milene

    Toronto

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on June 11, 2022

    overall4food3service4ambience5

    The ambiance and service were great. We sat out on the patio for dinner so it was quiet and pretty with the lights decorated all around. The food was a hit or miss. For the main course, although the presentation was colourful, the summer lamb sirloin was tough as opposed to tender. The string around the lamb should have been removed before it was served. For dessert, the ganache didn’t impress. It was dry and not flavourful. Again, the presentation was good but the taste has to melt in your mouth and leave a lasting impression—a positive one.

  11. KA

    KARENB

    Toronto

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on June 9, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    Incredible food and great ambiance. Had a lovely cocktail, and we ordered the duck, lamb and steak frite. All were amazing.

  12. TB

    TamaraB

    Montreal

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on June 9, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    Social has always been one of my favorite restaurants and once again, did not disappoint! We started with the warm bread (highly recommend trying the herbed). For my main I had the BC Cod and it was cooked to perfection. Overall was a 10/10 experience once again.

  13. AL

    AngelL

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on June 8, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    Everything at Social made this celebration great, but particularly the service!

  14. SB

    SarahB

    Ottawa

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on June 5, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    We had a terrific meal and experience. The restaurant is beautiful architecture and lovely decor.

  15. U

    Urica

    Montreal

    3 reviews

    3.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on June 5, 2022

    overall3food5service1ambience4

    The food was great and I have nothing but praise to give there but I was very disappointed in the level of service my friends and I received. The host promptly sat us which we appreciated where we then had to wait for 15-20 minutes for anyone to come to ask if we would like a beverage or even water. After that the service just got worse our waitress Christa was inattentive and definitely left us with the feeling that we were bothering her. When finally when it came to a point where we could no longer ignore it i had pointed out that she ignored one of our party again and did not ask for her order. She then attempted a series of gestures to demonstrate she was paying attention. While the sentiment was attempted it definitely did not reach her eyes. Overall, it left a mark on a joyous occasion as we were celebrating our friend birthday.

  16. OT

    OpenTable Diner

    Ottawa

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on June 4, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    The Social Bowl I had was brilliant except that there was a little bit of too much oil. Very tasty. Different flavors of fresh ingredients come together harmoniously cheerful. Servants were also very friendly and catering. Loved the interior as well. Would come back.

  17. S

    Sansan

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on June 4, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    The servers were impeccable. The servers were very amicable and cool. The food looked small but we were full. The food was excellent as well. The place was really cute.

  18. DS

    DaveS

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on June 3, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience4

    The food was amazing and our waiter was superb...my guests from the US thoroughly enjoyed the evening and ambience

  19. S

    Skippy4444

    Ottawa

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 31, 2022

    overall4food5service4ambience4

    As always, excellent food, friendly service. Really nice to be back in a high-quality restaurant again.

  20. A

    Anke

    Toronto

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 30, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    Social accommodated vegan, vegetarian, meat eaters and several small menu switches in our group of 5. We all had a great time.

  21. KL

    KristenL

    New Orleans

    3 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on May 30, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    The duck confit was amazing!!!

  22. OT

    OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 29, 2022

    overall4food5service5ambience5

    The duck was amazing !!!

  23. SS

    SamanthaS

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 28, 2022

    overall5food5service4ambience5

    Amazing! Food was delicious, try the duck pastrami.

  24. AB

    AnnieB

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 28, 2022

    overall4food4service3ambience4

    Very nice place, cozy decor. It took a bit of time to get our food but it was very good. Scallops were outstanding, cod was cooked perfectly.

  25. A

    Andrew

    Ottawa

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 26, 2022

    overall4food4service5ambience5

    Great spot for a business lunch. Good service and nice room.

  26. NG

    NancyG

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 24, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    Great staff! Great meal. They worked hard, and we had a good meal.

  27. EO

    EatinginOttawa

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 22, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    Delicious food, good wine, fun cocktails, great decor and perfect atmosphere/ambience! Great evening!

  28. AW

    AdrianW

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 18, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    We all had an excellent time, assisted by a brilliant server , Chris who was new to this sort of work , but was really excellent

  29. S

    Susan5

    Toronto

    15 reviews

    3.0

    15 reviews

    Dined on May 18, 2022

    overall3food5service2ambience4

    the food was excellent. The service was poor. not attentive in that they didn't offer us the opportunity to have a second glass of wine when we ran out during dinner. the worst was when the waitress started to clear our plates even though one person in our party was still eating. Wait staff should know better.

  30. M

    Merci

    Orlando

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 15, 2022

    overall4food4service4ambience4

    Comme le restaurant n’était pas très occupé ce soir-là, le niveau sonore était très acceptable.

  31. B

    Brunchlover

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 15, 2022

    overall2food2service2ambience3

    I always like Social and enjoy the service and food. This was our first time going during Brunch and it was the first time we were disappointed with our experience. It took a long time to be served (even though not many people were there). The coffee was cold to luke warm. The order was wrong. I always recommend Social but maybe not for Brunch.

  32. PB

    PatriciaB

    Montreal

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 14, 2022

    overall4food5service4ambience5

    Great cocktails. Fantastic food. Friendly service. Good wine selection.

  33. MG

    MzGemz

    Toronto

    13 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    13 reviews

    Dined on May 13, 2022

    overall5food5service4ambience5

    Lovely! Great food amd scene

  34. OT

    OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 13, 2022

    overall3food3service3ambience3

    Location is great.m (patio). Food was ok, definitely not good value but the prices reflect the location. Spotty service, plastic glasses for water, paper napkins give away this place’s cheap underbelly.

  35. LB

    LucB

    Montreal

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 13, 2022

    overall2food2service4ambience4

    Some confusion at our arrival with regards to the reservation and outside seating. Issue was resolved .............Food was fair Service was good.

  36. MK

    MalcolmK

    Saskatoon

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 13, 2022

    overall4food5service5ambience4

    It was a great meal, outdoors on a warm summery evening in mid-May! Wine selection was good. A great place to spend two very pleasant hours.

  37. JD

    JeffD

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 11, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    Excellent menu; well prepared food; friendly professional service. Have been a longtime customer - always a great place to take guests. First time back post-COVID and their standards remain high.

  38. BG

    BrendaG

    Ottawa

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 10, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5

    Always consistently good food and service. On a sunny day the outside courtyard is lovely.

  39. AB

    AustinB

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 9, 2022

    overall3food5service2ambience3

    Good was great, drinks were slow, service was meh.

  40. RA

    RobertA

    Montreal

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on May 9, 2022

    overall5food5service4ambience4

    It was quite busy, and we were by the door, so ambiance a little sub-par bur still very acceptable. service a little slow for same reasons. but again very good overall

Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
    • Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
    • Sealed or wrapped utensils used
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers
    • Contactless payment available

  • Physical distancing

    • Limited number of seated diners
    • Distancing maintained in common areas
    • Extra space between tables

  • Protective equipment

    • Waitstaff wear masks
    • Diners must wear masks unless eating or drinking

  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace
    • Contact tracing information collected

FAQs

Social - Ottawa offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (613) 789-7355.

Social - Ottawa is rated 4.5 stars by 888 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people
June 2022
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10:30 PM
Booked 36 times today
Google Map for Social - Ottawa

537 Sussex Drive Ottawa, ON K1N 6Z6

Additional information

  • Cross street

    George / York

  • Neighborhood

    ByWard Market

  • Hours of operation

    Brunch Sat, Sun 11:00 am–3:00 pm Lunch Mon–Fri 11:45 am–3:00 pm Happy Hour Daily 3:00 pm–5:00 pm Dinner Daily 5:00 pm–10:00 pm

  • Cuisines

    Bistro, French / Canadian

  • Dining style

    Casual Elegant

  • Dress code

    Business Casual

  • Parking details

    We are located between George St. and York St. on Sussex Drive. You can find meter parking and 2 parking garages on York Street. Parking is also available across the street at 700 Sussex Drive and around the market area.Courtyard accessible by way of George and York St.

  • Public transit

    There are public transit stops on Rideau street and at the Rideau Center (which is within walking distance).

  • Payment options

    AMEX, MasterCard, Visa

  • Executive chef

    Dave Godsoe

  • Entertainment

    Live music can be heard every Wednesday night in the summer on the Courtyard - a mix of jazz, acid jazz and blues. An assortment of DJs are spinning on Friday and Saturday nights all year round.

  • Additional

    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wine

  • Website

    http://www.social.ca/

  • Phone number

    (613) 789-7355

  • Private party facilities

    SOCIAL has a variety of private and semi private dining rooms and lounges to suit your event needs. We have dining rooms that are a perfect choice for small weddings, rehearsal dinners, client appreciation dinners, pharmaceutical presentations, special family occasions, networking events and more. These bookings are currently unavailable due to COVID regulations in place.

  • Private party contact

    Brittany Weston: (855) 805-9231

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
Delight more dinersOpen for Business Blog
Join us on
Copyright © 2022 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 700, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking LogoPriceline LogoKAYAK LogoAgoda LogoRentalcars LogoOpenTable Logo