A Mouth-Watering Journey Through the Best Greek Restaurants in Ottawa
I’ve always considered food as a cheaper way to hop from one country to another. With just a bite of a decadent lamb chop from a Greek restaurant down the street, I already find myself in the buzzing tavernas of Athens – minus the airfare and jet lag!
And if you find yourself in this article, I’m willing to bet you some tzatziki that you’re on the hunt for the best Greek restaurants in Ottawa.
Fortunately, you’ve stumbled upon a list curated by a self-proclaimed Greek cuisine aficionado, but really – I’m just a food enthusiast with an unrelenting craving for souvlaki.
Without further ado, I present the list of the best Greek hotspots in town that I’m sure you’ll enjoy. That said, be forewarned: by the end of this list, you’ll be practically licking your screen!
1. Cozmos Souvlaki
Media credit: @melshangrytable
Website: https://www.cozmossouvlaki.com
Address: 196 Greenbank Rd, Nepean, ON
Contact details: +1 613-596-4040
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10:30 AM to 8 PM
- Sunday – closed
Cozmo Souvlaki is a well-loved locale, offering classic Greek plates that are tantalizing in every bite. That said, the taste isn’t only what made their meals so well-received.
Folks also love them for the massive proportions, ensuring each order leaves patrons feeling satisfied.
The three meat shaved pita is definitely a stunner, featuring nourishing and satisfying inclusions of chicken, gyro, pork, lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, cucumbers, feta & tzatziki all sitting comfortably in a warm embrace of pita.
2. Aroma Meze
Website: https://www.aromameze.com
Address: 239 Nepean St.
Contact details: +1 613-421-0504
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday – 4:30 PM to 9 PM
- Wednesday and Thursday – 11:30 AM to 2 PM, 4:30 PM to 9 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 4:30 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 2 PM, 4:30 PM to 9 PM
If you’re seeking show-stopping dishes enjoyed in a humble and intimate setting, Aroma Meze is the perfect stage for your next culinary adventure, one with a delicious emphasis on Greek dishes.
The pulled lamb tacos are definitely the dish that made me want to come back for more, considering their succulent meat, thanks to the slow-cooked process. Actually, ever since my first visit, I’ve been back more times than I can count!
As someone who detests gnocchi, I found myself pleasantly surprised by their gorgonzola gnocchi for its creaminess and robust flavors.
I left the restaurant thinking, “Maybe I don’t dislike gnocchi after all!”. And that, my friends, is a telltale sign of a good restaurant!
3. Pilos Restaurant
Website: https://pilosrestaurant.com
Address: 876 Montréal Rd
Contact details: +1 613-741-4657
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
- Wednesday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM
- Saturday – 3 PM to 9:30 PM
- Sunday – 3 PM to 9 PM
Those seeking something that feels more homey should consider checking out Pilos Restaurant, a family-owned and run joint with a focus on traditional Greek specials, including my personal favorite – the lamp chops.
It has a satisfying combination of sweet, citrusy, and herbaceous – the epitome of a classic Greek dish.
I highly recommend it to those indulging in this type of cuisine for the first time.
Oh, and let’s not forget the scrumptious spanakopita that you can order as an appetizer. It’s basically Greece’s interpretation of the unbeatable pastry combination of cheese, spinach, and egg.
4. EVOO Greek Kitchen
Website: https://www.evoogreekkitchen.ca
Address: 438 1/2 Preston St
Contact details: +1 613-695-3860
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM
EVOO Greek Kitchen is a chic dining spot that specializes in refined Greek plates, along with a tantalizing cocktail menu.
Consider ordering their premium Australian lamb chops for an indulgent experience that highlights the best of Greek flavors and quality ingredients.
They’re also considered a fantastic destination for brunch in the city with their delicious brunch menu available every Sunday from 10 AM to 12 PM.
Order the spicy feta-baked eggs while you’re at it for the ultimate experience.
5. Kallisto Greek & Mediterranean Grill
Website: https://kallisto.ca
Address: 2950 Bank St
Contact details: +1 613-260-2111
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday, and Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 10:30 PM
Located in the bustling Bank Street teeming with delicious dining experiences, Kallisto stands out for its Greek and Mediterranean dishes that patrons will want to keep coming back for.
I particularly find myself drawn to their seafood plates every time, especially the shrimp souvlaki – an appealing dish marinated in herbs and charbroiled to perfection, making each bite as exciting as the last!
Also, consider perusing their spread selections meant to be paired with pita. The tzatziki is an exciting choice, with its uniquely Greek twist on classic yogurt – blended with garlic and cucumber.
6. The Greek Souvlaki House
Media credit: @foodsofottawa
Website: https://souvlaki.house
Address: 3625 Rivergate Way
Contact details: +1 613-695-4477
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Friday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 4 PM to 10 PM
Enthusiasts of traditional Greek cuisine often find themselves at The Greek Souvlaki House, ordering from its diverse menu that ensures you get your fill by the end of your meal.
The lamb souvlaki pita is a well-beloved classic for its tender, flavorful meat, and perfectly balanced seasonings.
If you want something extremely filling, the lamb souvlaki platter might be more up your alley, featuring roasted potatoes, rice drizzled with spiro sauce, and your choice of a Greek salad or soup on the side.
And if you’re feeling a bit more indulgent, try the baklava for dessert!