Being vegetarian in a pub-centric city like Ottawa can often mean reverting to a diet of nachos, fries, and craft beer. But it doesn’t have to be that way. There are lots of well-hidden, vegetarian-friendly spots around town that will accommodate even the pickiest of eaters.
Best healthy meal: Perfection-Satisfaction-Promise, 67 Laurier Ave. E
Perfection-Satisfaction-Promise is a little-known gem that’s only a hop, skip, and a jump away from campus. With an extensive healthy vegan menu, and an impressive array of gluten-free, dairy-free, and raw dessert options, it makes an ideal on-campus meeting spot for any group of diverse eaters.
Top pick: Vegetable korma curry with coconut cream, served with toasted cashew and pickled onion.
Best pub fare: The Aulde Dubliner, 62 William St.
You might be surprised by the number of pubs around town that offer surprisingly delicious vegetarian options beyond a garden salad. The Aulde Dubliner’s vegetarian menu may be small, but it makes a perfect start to a night of hearty drinking.
Top pick: Vegetarian burger with an all-vegetable patty, crafted house dressing, and toasted brioche bun.
Best gourmet meal: Backdrop, 160 Metcalfe St.
While most of Backdrop’s options are meat-based, if you’re looking for a more trendy dining experience its vegetarian options will never disappoint.
Top pick: Ratatouille crostata with a crispy cornmeal crust and titillating cider glaze.
Best Vegetarian Restaurant for Non-Vegetarians: Pure Kitchen, 357 Richmond Rd. and 340 Elgin St.
No list of vegetarian hot spots would be complete without this trendy, Ottawa-based, vegan-friendly restaurant. With unique cocktails, inventive starters, including cauliflower “wings,” and satisfying mains, it is sure to please even your most carnivorous friends.
Top pick: “Awesome” veggie burger with sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions.
