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Best French Restaurants in Downtown

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5 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Cocotte Bistro restaurant
1. Cocotte Bistro
4.3
Awesome(647)
Price: Expensive
• French • Ottawa
Booked 73 times today
Discover the charm of Cocotte Bistro, a gem nestled in the heart of downtown Ottawa, where modern meets authentic French cuisine. This delightful bistro is celebrated for its use of locally sourced ingredients and its commitment to seasonal creations, ensuring every dish is not only fresh but also uniquely vibrant. Patrons rave about their experiences, describing dishes like the "bavette with fries, cooked and marinated to perfection" and the "scallops risotto that did not disappoint." The ambiance is equally praised, with a stylish decoration and a cozy atmosphere that's perfect for any occasion. Whether it's brunch or dinner, Cocotte Bistro offers an exceptional French dining experience that keeps guests returning. "Amazing food and cocktails and perfect service," confirms the consistent excellence that Cocotte Bistro delivers.
A photo of Gitanes restaurant
2. Gitanes
4.7
Exceptional(607)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Ottawa
Booked 8 times today
At Gitanes in downtown Ottawa, the wine bar scene is elevated with an extensive selection that perfectly complements their French-inspired Canadian cuisine. Known for its romantic ambiance and chef-driven menu, Gitanes excels in pairing fine wines with dishes like the acclaimed mussels, steak frites, and a seafood raw bar that delights with freshness and sustainability. One guest celebrated a "nouveau" wine pairing that was meticulously matched with the tasting menu, making their dining experience unforgettable. Another diner praised, "the food and the wine were matched perfectly and were very delectable." Gitanes stands out as a gem on Elgin Street, where each visit is a toast to culinary brilliance and vinous pleasure.
A photo of Vain In Versailles Bistro restaurant
3. Vain In Versailles Bistro
4.4
Awesome(109)
Price: Moderate
• French • Little Italy
Booked 2 times today
Vain In Versailles Bistro, nestled in the charming Little Italy neighborhood of Ottawa, has quickly become a beacon for wine enthusiasts and gourmands alike. This bistro stands out not only for its "exceptional" gluten-free French cuisine but also for its meticulously curated wine list that complements every dish. Patrons rave about the "thoughtfully chosen wines" that elevate their dining experience, with one guest praising, "Bravo Versailles. Wonderful time overall. We will be back. Wine list is exceptional." The atmosphere is described as "delightful," perfect for savoring each sip and bite. Whether you are a connoisseur or a casual wine lover, Vain In Versailles Bistro promises an unparalleled wine bar experience, making it a must-visit destination in Ottawa.
A photo of Absinthe Cafe Resto Bar restaurant
4. Absinthe Cafe Resto Bar
4.5
Awesome(42)
Price: Expensive
• French • Ottawa
Booked 15 times today
Absinthe Cafe Resto Bar in downtown Ottawa is a beacon of Contemporary French cuisine, celebrated for its inventive and sophisticated use of locally sourced ingredients. Since its founding in 2003, the restaurant has consistently delivered dishes that respect French culinary techniques while embracing the bounty of eastern Ontario and western Quebec. Guests rave about the "subtly spicy cod cakes," "perfectly cooked steak frites," and "divine crème brûlée," highlighting the restaurant's ability to turn a meal into an unforgettable experience. The vibrant bistro atmosphere, coupled with a commitment to quality and affordability, makes Absinthe an outstanding choice for those seeking authentic Contemporary French dining. As one reviewer puts it, the food is "TO DIE FOR" and "worth every penny," confirming that Absinthe truly stands out in Ottawa's culinary scene.
A photo of Ono restaurant
5. Ono
3.3
Good(4)
Price: Expensive
• French • Gatineau
Booked 1 time today
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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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Laurie
    Ottawa •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 15 Nov 2024
    Dining at Gitanes is always a delightful experience, beginning with a warm welcome at the door. The dishes are creative and delicious. The servers are knowledgeable about the menu and thoughtful about accommodating any allergies. We enjoyed the Endive Salad and the Halibut Cheeks Piccata as tasty and generous starters which could easily be shared. Followed by the Thursday night special steak frites, adding the shaved black truffle on top which smelled and tasted delicious. The duck breast was very tasty and the addition of the Pommes Aligot was decadent. And although we didn’t think we had room for dessert, the pot au chocolate with madeleines was irresistible. Highly recommended for a night out.
    More info
    GitanesPrice: Very Expensive• French• Ottawa
    •
    4.7
  • Arielle
    Montreal / Quebec •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 14 Nov 2024
    My friend and I went to Cocotte for dinner and it was amazing. The drinks were good and the food even better. The staff always ready to answer our questions and made sure we had everything we needed. Thank you Victor.
    More info
    Cocotte BistroPrice: Expensive• French• Ottawa
    •
    4.3
  • Coreyvip
    Toronto / Ontario •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 9 Nov 2024
    Another good experience validating the 1st good experience there. Great food, service, and cocktails.
    More info
    Vain In Versailles BistroPrice: Moderate• Contemporary French• Little Italy
    •
    4.4
  • Robert
    Greater Boston •1 review
    4.0
    Dined on 9 Nov 2024
    Appetizers were just ok, nothing really special. Mains (Steak/frites) were exceptional, maybe the best steak I’ve had in Ottawa. Service was terrible! We were seated right away then sat at our table for almost 30 minutes before we were approached by a server. Another couple were seated 10 minutes after us and had their beverages and bread 10 minutes after that. Music played was annoying. I noticed that there were 2 speakers missing on our side of the room so all we heard was bass thumping from the other side.
    More info
    Absinthe Cafe Resto BarPrice: Expensive• French• Ottawa
    •
    4.5
  • Mylea
    Los Angeles •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 22 Aug 2024
    Very nice place for lunch before heading to the spa.
    More info
    OnoPrice: Expensive• Bistro• Gatineau
    •
    3.3

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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