Information published on February 2026
For couples who value incredible food, intentional atmosphere and a guest experience that feels elevated but personal, restaurant weddings are one of Ottawa’s best-kept secrets. From intimate candle-lit dining rooms to full-venue buyouts overlooking the water or tucked into the historic streets, Ottawa offers a surprisingly diverse selection of restaurant wedding venues for every style and guest count.
Restaurant weddings are especially appealing for couples who want to simplify planning: the décor is often built-in, menus are chef-driven and service is seamless. Budgets typically revolve around the food and beverage minimums rather than traditional venue rental fees, making this option both stylish and efficient.
Below, i’m highlighting 20 of the best restaurant wedding venues in Ottawa and the surrounding area, including rough budget expectations, cuisine style, guest capacity and what makes each space special.
Riviera Ottawa
Located on Sparks Street, Riviera is one of Ottawa’s most sought-after restaurant wedding venues. With a sleek, modern interior and a seasonal Canadian menu, it’s ideal for couples planning a refined downtown wedding. Full buyouts typically accommodate around 140 guests for a cocktail style reception or 60 for a sit down dinner, with food and beverage minimums starting around $15,000 and increasing for weekend evenings. Couples love Riviera for its cocktail program, polished service and effortlessly chic vibe. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 62 Sparks St., Ottawa ON
Beckta Dining & Wine
An Ottawa fine-dining restaurant, Beckta is perfect for couples planning an intimate, food-focused wedding reception. Known for multi-course tasting menus and exceptional wine pairings, Beckta’s private dining spaces comfortably host 75 guests for a standing reception or 40 for a seated dinner. Budgets generally range from $150–$250 per person, making it an excellent choice for smaller, luxurious celebrations or rehearsal dinners. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 150 Elgin St, Ottawa ON
Restaurant e18hteen
Situated in the heart of the ByWard Market, Restaurant e18hteen blends modern steakhouse energy with historic charm. Its private dining options work well for a standing reception with 175 guests or a seated dinner with 130. The average pricing for a restaurant buyout is between $9-$16,000 depending on the day of the week. This venue suits couples who want a classic yet contemporary dining experience. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 18 York St, Ottawa ON
Gezellig
Gezellig offers a warm, European-inspired atmosphere that feels welcoming and refined without being formal. With the ability to host roughly 60–100 guests, it’s a great option for couples planning a relaxed dinner-style reception. Budgets typically range from $6–$12,000 depending on menu structure and whether the space is partially or fully booked. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 337 Richmond Rd, Ottawa ON
Sidedoor
For couples seeking something vibrant and social, Sidedoor absolutely delivers. Known for its global cuisine and tapas-style menus, this York Street favourite can host 230 guests for a seated dinner or 330 for a standing option. Wedding receptions here often fall between $13-17,000 for a restaurant buyout and $3-7,000 for a portion or the restaurant booked, making it a flexible option for couples who want a lively, urban atmosphere. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 18b York St, Ottawa ON
Lago
Overlooking the Rideau Canal, Lago is a romantic waterfront restaurant perfect for summer weddings. Italian-inspired menus and a strong wine list set the tone for elegant receptions that can accommodate between 110 and 450 guests depending on which area you book. Expect budgets in the $100–$180 per person range, depending on menu selections and seasonal availability. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 1001 Queen Elizabeth Driveway, Ottawa ON
JOEY (Rideau & Lansdowne)
JOEY’s Ottawa locations are among the most versatile restaurant wedding venues in the city. With the ability to host 300+ guests, they’re ideal for large-scale receptions. Budgets can often exceed $25,000 for full buyouts, but couples benefit from experienced event teams, modern décor and crowd-pleasing menus. To check out their website, click here.
Rideau Address: 50 Rideau St E106, Ottawa ON
Lansdowne Address: 825 Exhibition Way Unit 103, Ottawa ON
Luxe Bistro
Luxe Bistro offers elegant interiors and multiple event spaces with different sizing options, making it suitable for weddings both intimate and grand. With capacity for up to 300 guests. In the event of a full restaurant buyout, couples can expect to pay $10,000 plus. Its reputation for hospitality makes it a strong choice for polished, upscale receptions. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 47 York St, Ottawa ON
Mati
This Little Italy gem is ideal for small weddings or rehearsal dinners. Mati’s Mediterranean menu and cozy atmosphere suit gatherings of 6-30 guests, with pricing often between $80 and $120 per person. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 428 Preston St #200, Ottawa ON
Cocotte Bistro
Cocotte Bistro brings the French charm to Ottawa. With room for approximately 80–110 guests, it’s a wonderful choice for couples who love classic European cuisine. Budgets typically fall between $100 and $170 per person, especially when wine pairings are included. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 123 Metcalfe St, Ottawa ON
Cantina Gia
Cantina Gia is a favourite for intimate Italian-inspired celebrations. Best suited for 20–40 guests, this venue offers flavour-forward menus and a warm ambiance, with pricing generally between $70 and $120 per person. To view their website, click here.
Address: 749 R. Bank Street, Ottawa ON
Trofi Restaurant
Another Little Italy staple, Trofi is known for its inviting atmosphere and Mediterranean-Italian menu. Hosting up to 40 guests, Trofi weddings often come with no rental fee when food and beverage minimums are met, with pricing averaging $80–$140 per person. To view their website, click here.
Address: 343 Somerset St W, Ottawa ON
Signatures Restaurant
Signatures offers a modern steakhouse feel with flexible private dining options. Ideal for mid-sized weddings of 40–120 guests, budgets typically range from $120–$200 per person. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 453 Laurier Ave E, Ottawa ON
Parlour
Parlour’s eclectic design and flexible layouts make it popular for creative couples. With the choice between the Chapel or a full restaurant buyout. For the Chapel alone, you can have up to 55 guests for a cocktail style reception or up to 30 for a seated dinner. With the full restaurant buy out you can have between 225 for a cocktail style reception or 130 for a seated dinner. Full buyouts typically range from $7–$15,000+, depending on menu and bar selections. To check out their menu, click here.
Address: 1319 Wellington St. W, Ottawa ON
Arlo
Located in Ottawa’s trendy downtown core, Arlo has quickly become a go-to for couples who want a stylish, contemporary restaurant vibe on their wedding day. Known for its thoughtful modern Canadian menu and spirited bar program, Arlo is ideal for receptions that feel intimate yet lively. Private events typically accommodate around 50–90 guests, with food and beverage minimums that generally fall in the $8,000–$20,000 range depending on day of week and season. Couples love the warm wood interiors, approachable upscale cuisine and customized menu options that make guests feel truly celebrated. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 340 Somerset St W, Ottawa ON
Erling’s Variety
Erling’s Variety offers something truly unique on the Ottawa wedding scene; a restaurant with vintage charm and cosmopolitan flair. Focusing on globally inspired comfort food and a curated drinks list, this venue works beautifully for couples seeking an eclectic, memorable reception experience. Private dining here typically suits 20–60 guests, with per-person food and drink package pricing generally $80–$140 per person. The cozy yet stylish ambiance makes it a standout for fall or winter weddings when couples want something warm and inviting. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 225 Strathcona Ave, Ottawa ON
Giulia
Giulia brings romantic Italian cuisine and timeless elegance to any wedding. Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner for close friends and family or a larger celebration with multiple courses, this Little Italy favourite delivers consistently heartfelt hospitality. Capacity tends to fall in the 70–100 guest range, with typical reception budgets around $100–$180 per person, including wine and curated menus. Thoughtful plating, local ingredients and an ambiance that feels both celebratory and classy make Giulia ideal for couples passionate about food and connection. To check out their website, click here.
Elgin Address: 350 Elgin St, Ottawa ON
Market Address: 61 York St, Ottawa, ON
Mill Street Brew Pub
A beloved Ottawa staple with craft beer and elevated pub fare, Mill Street Brew Pub is a fun choice for couples who want a reception that feels festive without pretension. With flexible spaces and casual charm, weddings here can welcome around 170 guests for a cocktail style reception or 120 for a sit down dinner. Food and beverage minimums often falling in the $10,000–$18,000 range based on guest count and event style. Expect hearty crowd-pleasers, local brews and a crowd-energized atmosphere, perfect for receptions where dancing, laughter and storytelling are the stars of the show. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 555 Wellington St, Ottawa ON
North & Navy
North & Navy combines rustic charm with coastal Canadian cuisine, making it one of Ottawa’s standout restaurant wedding spots for couples who want something approachable, stylish and deeply feel-good. With expertly curated seasonal menus and a warm, wood-accented interior, this space can comfortably host 50–100 guests. Budgets typically range from $90–$160 per person, depending on menu choice and beverage inclusions. It’s especially great for fall or winter weddings where comfort and flavor are top priorities. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 226 Nepean St, Ottawa ON
Starling Restaurant and Bar
Starling has quickly gained a reputation for innovative Canadian cuisine, exceptional service, and an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. Weddings here often seat 60–120 guests, with food and beverage minimums typically in the $55-95 per person on weekend dates. The menu blends seasonal ingredients with refined plating, making it a favourite choice for couples looking for a reception with sophistication but not stiffness. Whether you choose plated dinners or curated stations, Starling excels at making dinner feel like part of the celebration, not just a meal. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 54 York St, Ottawa, ON
Tavern on the Falls
Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Ottawa River and Chats Falls, Tavern on the Falls offers classic pub style with scenic charm; a perfect combination for couples seeking a venue that’s laid-back but memorable. With capacity for roughly 20–300 guests, reception budgets land in the $10,000–$18,000 range depending on weekend or weekday bookings. The menu of elevated comfort fare and great drinks pairs wonderfully with natural light and outdoor photo opportunities, making it a great fit for couples who want fun, food, and views. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 1 John St, Ottawa ON
Next
Next is a hidden gem for couples dreaming of a progressive and creative dining experience on their wedding day. Focused on locally sourced ingredients and beautifully executed plates, it’s perfect for receptions of 50–150 guests that prioritize food artistry and personal touches. Expect per-person food and beverage budgets around $120–$210, particularly for tasting-style weddings with curated wine pairings. This is a standout choice for food-obsessed couples who want a reception that feels like a destination event in its own right. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 6400 Hazeldean Rd, Ottawa ON
The Albion Rooms
With a vibe that balances historic charm and contemporary design, The Albion Rooms is a popular choice for weddings that feel elegant without being formal. It can accommodate approximately 30–150 guests, with food and drink packages often falling in the $10,000–$22,000 range for weekend receptions. Expect elevated comfort fare, strong service, and the kind of atmosphere that makes guests feel welcome from cocktail hour through dessert. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 33 Nicholas St, Ottawa ON
Gitanes
If Parisian-inspired cuisine and moody elegance are high on your wedding wish list, Gitanes delivers. This restaurant combines rich European fare with a sultry, intimate interior; making it an excellent choice for receptions with 50 guests. Food and beverage budgets typically range from $100–$150 per person, especially when wine selections are included. Gitanes is perfect for couples seeking an uptown dining vibe with the romance of a destination. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 361 Elgin St Unit #6, Ottawa ON
Metropolitain Brasserie
Metropolitain Brasserie brings classic French brasserie fare with a lively energy; perfect for couples who want a reception with style and sparkle. The spaces can host around 30–150 guests or for a full restaurant buy out for 250 guests, with food and beverage minimums often landing in the $12,000–$25,000 range for weekend events. Think carefully prepped plates, impeccable service and a vibe that makes guests feel like they’ve been whisked to a European celebration without leaving Ottawa. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 700 Sussex Dr, Ottawa ON
Overflow Brewing Company
Overflow Brewing Company is a standout for couples who adore craft beer, relaxed vibes, and bold, comfort-forward food. Spaces are flexible enough for receptions of 50–100 guests, with budgets influenced by drink minimums and food packages; typically $8,000–$15,000 total depending on guest count and weekend demand. This venue is ideal for celebrations that feel festive, casual, and full of personality. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 2477 Kaladar Ave, Ottawa ON
Chelsea Pub
Chelsea Pub brings classic pub energy and local charm to wedding receptions. With rooms for roughly 14–60 guests, budgets are accessible; particularly for couples who want a laid-back dinner and dance reception without breaking the bank. Expect food and beverage minimums in the $7,000–$14,000 range, depending on menu inclusions and bar service choices. This location is perfect for couples who want a fun, upbeat reception with real character. To check out their website, click here.
Address: 238 Chem. Old Chelsea, Chelsea QC
Looking for an Ottawa Wedding Photographer for Your Restaurant Wedding?
As an Ottawa wedding photographer, I absolutely love photographing restaurant weddings. They’re intimate, story-driven and full of natural moments like candlelit toasts, beautifully plated courses, golden hour portraits outside your venue and the joyful energy that comes from gathering around incredible food.
Restaurant weddings allow me to capture: the warm glow of reception spaces, emotional, close-knit guest interactions, stunning food and detail photos and authentic candid moments that feel relaxed and real. If you’re planning your celebration at one of these Ottawa restaurant wedding venues, I’d be honoured to document it in a way that feels timeless, artful, and true to you.
If you’re searching for an Ottawa wedding photographer who values connection, atmosphere and storytelling, reach out today to inquire about availability and packages. I’d love to hear about your venue, your vision and how we can create something unforgettable together.
Top Restaurant Wedding Venues in Ottawa
