RADAR
10 Things to do in Ottawa
Explore the capital’s hidden gems — and savour its unexpected delights.
By Sean Deasy
Brewing up at Little Victories; a window into Plant and Curio’s world in Little Italy; the Double Lesters Montreal Smoked Meat Sandwich at District Deli; Miam Miam’s welcoming sandwich board. | PHOTOS: COURTESY OF LITTLE VICTORIES; COURTESY OF PLANT AND CURIO; COURTESY OF DISTRICT DELI; COURTESY OF MIAM MIAM GENERAL STORE
Visitors to Ottawa can behold the majesty of Parliament Hill, marvel at the opulence of the Fairmont Château Laurier and stroll for nearly eight kilometres along the tree-lined Rideau Canal — or skate it: it becomes the world’s longest skating rink come winter. But all that just scratches the surface. Here’s an insider’s guide that goes deeper for your visit to the nation’s capital. 1. Miam Miam General Store (Chinatown) This charming boutique offers a curated selection of gourmet pantry staples and artisanal goods. It is an ideal stop for those seeking pottery, vintage clothes and quirky food-shaped candles. They also offer knitting workshops and boast one of the best hidden coffee shops in the city.
2. Watson’s Mill & Dickinson House (Manotick) Step into the 1860s at this fully operational, water-powered flour mill in Manotick, about 30 minutes from downtown. Visitors can witness the traditional milling process — it’s the only “working museum” in the region — and explore historic architecture that anchors the village’s rich industrial heritage. Be sure to snag a loaf of their Honey Oat Bread — available every Saturday and Sunday from May to October. 3. 613 Flea Market (Lansdowne Park) Held on select Saturdays, this market brings together local artisans, vintage collectors, and diverse food vendors. It offers a treasure-hunt experience filled with a mix of fashion, retro home décor, handcrafted artisanal goods and collectibles ranging from antique furniture and vinyl records to locally made jewelry.
Miam Miam General Store is a stand-alone treasure in the heart of Ottawa’s Chinatown. | PHOTO: COURTESY OF MIAM MIAM GENERAL STORE
4. Natural History (Chinatown) This retro bar in Chinatown features a striking outdoor mural by Pascale Arpin. Inside, a curated “explorer’s museum” aesthetic provides a moody, nostalgic setting for creative cocktails — such as the El Burro, made with spiced rum and ginger beer — and intimate conversation. 5. Nagi Sushi (Orléans) Frequented by high-profile figures — notably the Japanese ambassador and Justin Trudeau — this Orléans staple elevates sushi to an art form. Its reputation for exceptional quality and authentic techniques makes it a destination for serious food enthusiasts. 6. Little Victories (The Glebe, plus 2 locations in Centretown) Located on vibrant Elgin Street, this renowned roastery serves expertly crafted espresso and pour-over coffee. It provides a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for experiencing Ottawa’s thriving specialty coffee culture. 7. District Deli (Hintonburg) Located in a hip neighbourhood about a 10-minute drive west of Centretown, this shop specializes in huge fresh Italian sandwiches packed with deli meats. Menu items are named after neighbourhood streets, such as The Wellington and The Parkdale. 8. Luskville Falls (Gatineau Park) In the mood for a challenge? This very steep 4.2-km loop climbs the rocky Eardley Escarpment, offering hikers panoramic views of the Ottawa Valley and vibrant autumn foliage, complete with a dramatic, historic fire tower at the summit.
(Clockwise from top left) The warm glow of the Natural History bar in Chinatown; reading lists always stack up at The Spaniel’s Tale; the main entrance of 613 Flea Market at Lansdowne Park is the gateway to thrifting; the natural camouflage at Plant and Curio. | PHOTOS: COURTESY OF NATIONAL HISTORY; COURTESY OF THE SPANIEL’S TALE; COURTESY OF 613 FLEA MARKET; COURTESY OF PLANT AND CURIO
9. The Spaniel’s Tale (Wellington West) The Spaniel’s Tale is a welcoming queer-owned independent bookstore west of downtown. Explore a carefully selected collection of titles in a safe, inclusive space, where expert staff members are on hand to help you find your next great read. 10. Plant and Curio (Little Italy) This woman-led local shop dedicated to indoor gardening is a haven for plant lovers. In addition to handmade pottery and décor, they offer a large curated selection of plants (including pet-friendly ones) that are categorized by light exposure. This means you can find a plant no matter how much (or little) light comes into your home. CAA
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