10 Best Restaurants in Ottawa for Valentine’s Day

Are you searching for the best restaurant for your Ottawa Valentine’s date night? In this blog post, we will explore the 10 best restaurants in Ottawa for Valentine’s Day for busy moms & dads to reconnect over a well-deserved date night. Whether you’re rekindling sparks or simply savouring a rare night out, these handpicked gems will transform your Ottawa Valentine’s date night into an unforgettable evening of calmness & delight. Let’s embark on this culinary journey and find your perfect match.

Beckta Dining & Wine

One of my personal favourites, and without a doubt one of the best restaurants in Ottawa for Valentine’s Day!

Beckta offers an elegant dining experience with a curated wine list and a menu featuring contemporary Canadian cuisine. Its warm, sophisticated atmosphere is perfect for couples seeking a refined yet cozy evening for an Ottawa Valentine’s date night.

Address: 150 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 1L4
Must-Try Dish: Seared scallops with truffle risotto

Signatures Restaurant (Le Cordon Bleu)

Housed in a historic mansion, Signatures combines French culinary artistry with luxurious ambiance. From fine wine to exquisite desserts, it’s an indulgent escape for couples who cherish gourmet experiences.

Address: 453 Laurier Avenue East, Ottawa, ON K1N 6R4
Must-Try Dish: Duck à l’orange

Riviera

A personal favourite for an Ottawa Valentine’s date night

Located in a stunning heritage building, Riviera is known for its stylish décor and elevated menu. Candlelit tables and a vibrant downtown vibe make it a trendy yet intimate spot for Valentine’s Day.

Address: 62 Sparks Street, Ottawa, ON K1P 5A5
Must-Try Dish: Lobster spaghetti

The Whalesbone

For a more laid back Ottawa Valentine’s date night

For seafood lovers, The Whalesbone delivers a charming, rustic ambiance paired with a fresh, sustainable menu. Share oysters and a bottle of wine for a quintessentially romantic experience.

Address: 430 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 1Y8
Must-Try Dish: Fresh shucked oysters with mignonette sauce

Gitanes

Gitanes blends French and Mediterranean influences in a chic yet cozy setting. Its dim lighting and velvet accents set the mood for an enchanting evening.

Address: 361 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 1M7
Must-Try Dish: Braised lamb with Provençal herbs

Atelier

For adventurous foodies, Atelier offers a 12-course tasting menu that’s as much a work of art as it is a meal. Each course brings an element of surprise, perfect for couples looking to make Valentine’s Day extra special.

Address: 540 Rochester Street, Ottawa, ON K1S 4M1
Must-Try Experience: The full tasting menu

Sidedoor

Sidedoor’s lively atmosphere and unique fusion of Asian and Mexican flavors make it a great choice for couples who love sharing plates. Their creative cocktails add a playful touch to the evening.

Address: 18 York Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 5T5
Must-Try Dish: Tuna sashimi tacos

The Shore Club

Located in the heart of downtown, The Shore Club is a classic spot for a luxurious Valentine’s dinner. Its plush booths and excellent service make it feel like a timeless escape.

Address: 11 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1N 9H4 (inside the Westin Hotel)
Must-Try Dish: Filet mignon with béarnaise sauce

E18hteen

Known for its romantic lighting and sleek design, E18hteen offers a modern dining experience with an emphasis on quality ingredients. It’s perfect for couples seeking a stylish yet intimate evening.

Address: 18 York Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 5T5
Must-Try Dish: Grilled ribeye with chimichurri

Les Fougeres

Nestled in the Gatineau Hills, Les Fougeres combines serene surroundings with exceptional farm-to-table cuisine. It’s worth the short drive for couples looking to escape the city for a romantic getaway.

Address: 783 Route 105, Chelsea, QC J9B 1P1
Must-Try Dish: Wild mushroom ravioli with sage butter

Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to pause life’s whirlwind and bask in the love that brought you and your significant other together. These 10 best restaurants in Ottawa for Valentine’s Day don’t just serve exceptional meals — they set the stage for unforgettable moments, reminding you why your love story is worth cherishing. So, pick your favourite spot, savour the anticipation, and let this Ottawa Valentine’s date night become a chapter in your family’s legacy of love.

Have a favourite romantic gem we didn’t mention? Share your go-to Ottawa Valentine’s date night location in the comments — I’d love to hear your love stories!

Brooke Lacombe Photography is a published, fine art Ottawa newborn, family and maternity photographer. She specializes in capturing the magic of baby’s first year of life, and helping her clients preserve their favourite memories through stunning, heirloom artwork. Brooke’s custom design services are bespoke – bringing your family’s story to life for many generations.

Brooke serves Ottawa, Gatineau, Almonte, and other surrounding areas. To learn more, click here. To contact Brooke & to begin planning your dream session, say hello here. 

Are you expecting this year? Check out this blog post to help you with choosing the perfect newborn photographer for your growing family, and get ahead with packing your hospital bag here.