Breakfast in Ottawa’s ByWard Market
Breakfast is not only the first and most important meal of the day, but also one of the most varied. Whether you prefer eggs, pancakes, skillets or bagels, there is a delicious breakfast feast awaiting you at any one of these ByWard Market spots.
Cafe 55
55 By Ward Market Sq, Ottawa, ON K1N 9C3Although it has a modern, European feel, this place has been here since the 1980s. The café boasts a very casual atmosphere, where you can linger over your breakfast and coffee for as long as you like. While you enjoy your meal, you can also watch ByWard Market merchants, from craftspeople to plant and vegetable farmers, setting up their stalls.
Moulin De Provence
55 By Ward Market Sq, Ottawa, ON K1N 9C3This is the spot that U.S. President Barack Obama visited spontaneously during his first visit to Ottawa, giving it instant and lasting fame. A little piece of France in Ottawa, guests can eat the European-style breakfast, with baguette, café au lait and tout cela. Oh, and don’t forget the Maple Leaf/Obama cookies to take home. If you forget, your kids will never forgive you.
Zak's Diner
16 By Ward Market Sq, Ottawa, ON K1N 7A1This diner is where to go if you want a big breakfast 24 hours a day. A retro feel from the ’50s and great food ensure that there’s always a line up at the door. Plus, the portions are as huge as the lineups. With retro shakes and vinyl booths, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time. If this is your cup of tea, you’ll love it here.
Mellos Restaurant
290 Dalhousie St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7E6It has changed players and menus over the years but this standard, located on Dalhousie Street, has been at it since 1942. The arugula omelette is a nice find. And, you have no idea who you might end up sitting next to.
Benny's Bistro
119 Murray St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5M5Why don’t they sell eggs Benedict at Benny’s Bistro? Tucked in the back of the French Baker, you might expect breakfast with a French flair. And, you’d be right. No, they don’t do bennies here, only eggs the old-fashioned way. And, you will be greeted en Français.
Peace Garden
47 Clarence St, Ottawa, ON K1N 9K1Well hidden in the same building that houses Ottawa’s French newspaper (Le Droit), this choice will surprise a few. Truly a peaceful oasis in the ByWard Market Square, the elegant, sari-clothed staff will make you a vegetarian breakfast that includes mock bacon. Don’t worry; the staff will make no effort to convert you to vegetarianism, or anything else.
Casa Di Moni
51 York, Ottawa, ON K1N 9B7This place is the new kid on the block. It’s the kind of delicatessen where choices can be overwhelming. They are especially proud of their gluten-free breakfasts, including buckwheat crêpes. The blueberry Danishes and olive focaccia are also very popular.
