The Short Version: Chain restaurant with everyday Happy…read moreHour. Food is good for what it is. Friendly service. The Long Version: State and Main is a Canadian chain restaurant that started out in Calgary, AB. I feel it's similar to Moxies. Most items are not made from scratch and the menu while it has creative elements is never all that adventurous. It's a great restaurant for a mixed group. Those meat and potatoes types will find something inoffensive to them, and those with a more adventurous palate won't be too bored. I'm a bit critical of chain restaurants in general because I prefer small independently owned mom and pop shops where everything is made from scratch, and usually with love and passion. My preference is no secret to anyone who knows me. However, I feel that State and Main is one of the better chains. I went to State and Main with 2 of my friends for a late lunch that coincided with their Happy Hour. Their Happy Hour is 2-5pm and 9pm to close, 7 days a week. Their Happy Hour is not that much of a deal though as you only save $1.50-$3 off the regular menu prices, depending on the item. It's not like those half-price Happy Hours. I started with a State Soda (HH $6, regularly $8). I enjoyed it because it wasn't too sweet. It was vodka, club soda and a tiny bit of their signature "slush." I was going to get their soup dumplings, but cannot have sesame seeds and was advised that the packaging on the dumplings said "contains sesame" so I opted to get the Baja Brussels Sprouts instead. I asked for them to go light on the sauce, as I don't like my food too saucy and our lovely server, Dakota, suggested that I get the sauce on the side. Which was a fantastic idea! I also got a side portion of their mixed greens salad with the dressing on the side ($5.50). The Brussels sprouts were very good. They were crispy on the outside and had powdered Parmesan cheese sprinkled on them. There was also bacon and roasted red peppers pieces in the dish. The lime and cilantro sauce that came on the side was almost not really needed because the Brussels sprouts tasted good as is. I did try a bit of the sauce and it was pleasant. I would get the Brussels sprouts again. The mixed greens salad was better than I expected. It was a true mixed greens salad and not just romaine lettuce or the dreaded (well, I dread it because it's cheapie filler IMO) iceberg lettuce (it actually had no iceberg lettuce, yahoo!). It also had beets, goat cheese, pumpkin seeds and roasted chickpeas. Nothing too wild, but a bit more oomph than your run-of-the-mill garden salad. A few of the romaine spines were browning, but otherwise the other ingredients were fresh. I enjoyed the dijon vinaigrette and am happy I got it on the side because I used less than half of it. One friend got the State Smash cocktail ($10 HH menu, regularly $12) and she enjoyed the raspberry flavour. She also got the Chili Coconut Calamari ($16 HH menu, regularly $18.50). She wasn't as happy with her meal as found it a bit too spicy and found the calamari not large or plump enough. Visually the calamari did look rather small and not meaty. My other friend got the Baja Tacos with fries from their regular menu ($19). She really enjoyed her meal and the tacos looked great. The fish was battered and deep-fried. The fries were thicker cut but looked to be slightly battered or at least seasoned, and very crispy. We had a lovely time and our server, Dakota, was friendly and helpful. There was a slight error in our bills as the Happy Hour foods were charged at regular prices, but when I pointed this out, it was quickly fixed. The decor I would describe as "casual plus." It's a bit more elevated than casual. They have fun framed prints on the walls. It has a pub feel. The restaurant is in the Gloucester Centre complex. It's not part of the actual mall though. Lots of free parking available in the shopping complex parking lot. #72 (2026)

A fun family meal was had at this very pleasant restaurant in Ottawa. They accommodated my loud…read moreniece and nephew and for the most part took good care of us. Our server was very sweet with big smiles and tried her hardest: she was a little overworked and had a lot of apologies. The food was good: Asian themed shrimp and salads, a very nice salmon my niece took down, and some flavorful cocktails. Fresh and delivered quickly, it was definitely an enjoyable dinner!

Joey Rideau, a restaurant that's part of the Calgary Joey chain of restaurants, is located on…read moreOttawa's yeah, Rideau and Nicholas. For those not from Canada, it's a chain of casual restaurants with all sorts of foods from Canadian to Korean. There are locations in multiple cities of the United States including Santa Clara, which I've actually been to. I wouldn't type that Bridges is a good Bay Area comparison, but there are similarities. (Yes, it is a real restaurant, and the Hillard family in "Mrs. Doubtfire" needs 45 minutes to get there from their house.) What did the places get right? We had good times for sure. The staff members were energetic, and they had checked up if we're okay. I believe both times, I ordered something Japanese, though the first time, I also tried other foods I can't remember anymore. What's noteworthy is that one of my brothers likes the truffle udon carbonara I had the first go around, and he likes that udon the best, but of course, it has truffles. The second time, I had the flan cheesecake cake. What did the places get wrong? Not a lot. The 3 dollar signs should make people twitch. So, you should come only if there's a special occasion. The other issue I have is what I typed is an issue I typed in another Canadian spot's review, Boston, as in having their food carry too much spice. It's actually bothersome more so in a Joey's spot than a Boston's because Joey's spots carry Japanese food, and most of their Japanese foods carry the spice I'd rather avoid. I know you can remove the spicy ingredients, but they're still a bother. Joey's is a good spot. It may be pricey, but it's good never the less. I may not be close to Ottawa's location anymore, but I for sure can just go to Santa Clara if I want that Canadian flair of Joey's again. +/Joey's is a jiving spot with that energy and tasty food and drinks. -/It's pricey, and the batch of Japanese foods makes me twitch internally.

Celebrated anniversary dinner here and service was exceptional. Our server Charisse was very…read moreoutgoing and accommodating. Had the steak and lobster and while the steak was a tough as shoe leather I managed my way thru it as it was tasty. Would return but probably not for the steak.

Will never darken this door again! One of the worst cases of…read moresolo diner syndrome I've ever encountered. By this, I mean you show up as a solo diner and they treat you like you are not worth their time. It took me almost an hour just to park. This is a very busy shopping/dining centre, which I didn't mind, but the parking garage was packed, hard to find a spot. But I did it. Went up to the restaurant. There were four groups waiting...I counted them as I went in. Many empty tables. This was the classic case of a bunch of people standing around at the front like deer in headlights. They ignored me and two of the three walked off before anyone even acknowledged me. Finally, the young lady with dark hair wearing a green cardigan spoke to me. I was a waitress in college many years. Some of this generation (not the amazing restaurant I went to after) wouldn't know customer service if it slapped them in the face. She asked how many and as soon as I said, "Just one," she screwed up her nose and made a face and totally wrote me off. I got the copout: I can seat you at the bar. I explained I have RA and those stools are torture for me (also twisted my knee and the bar stool at Prohibition the night before was so painful I had to move). She said I could eat outside. It was 83 degrees. I told her it was too hot. She said there was a 2.5 hour wait. Bullshit. I've worked in restaurants, eaten at MANY. Four groups waiting? She just wrote me off. Too bad for you. I order appies, drinks...have a bill like a couple and tip to make up0 for it too. Ask the servers at restaurant I went to instead. So rude. No wonder so many restaurants are closing. I wouldn't go back if you PAID me to eat there. There are far too many options to treat paying customers this way. If she is any indication of the service there, I dodged a bullet! And found a gem instead. Good luck!

I really enjoyed my dinner experience at Joey Landsdowne tonight…read more Nicole D. my waitress was very attentive as she took my order and served me. She is also very friendly and welcoming. I will be back for sure !

Located inside a hotel one tends to have minimal expectations ime. This one is a mix bag. I enjoyed…read morethe fish & chips but not burger. The beer selection is mainly craft (not a fan) so that could bode well for some. Service was decent on both visits (my choices were limited due to extreme cold weather as either go out or stay put). Their happy hour was ok though I think their focus is on cured meats so maybe I ought to try that. I ate early so went for a main instead. 2.5-3 stars.

The service was really attentive and friendly and the place had a nice ambiance, while being…read morewelcoming to both families and those looking for a nice night out. The food, however, was mediocre overall. We had the albacore tuna sashimi and foie gras terrine to start. The sashimi was actually a nice portion of thick cut sashimi, but the sauce and garnishes could have complemented the tuna a bit better. The foie gras terrine was ok - not enough crostinis to go with the foie gras. Flavour wasn't too strong. For the pappardelle, it looked like chunks of pork belly instead of pig cheek? The pork belly was nice and crispy but overly salty. On the other hand the pappardelle and sauce was super bland with zero flavour. Overall, the food didn't meet my expectations.

Absolute gem in Ottawa. This is the best value French food I have had. The atmosphere is more…read morecasual and cozy, but that does not take away from the quality of the food. Usually when I get escargot it comes with just 6 snails still in shells, but this one they are already deshelled and overflowing. The duck confit was also perfectly cooked with large portions. Wonderful service as well.

Stopped in for nibbles and drinks with a colleague for a meeting during happy hour…read more The server was thoughtful and charming and the food is fast and well seasoned. Highly recommend.

An Epic Father's Day Meal - Rose Bowl Steakhouse Sets the Bar High…read more Wow... just wow. After a full day of surprises and celebration, our dinner at Rose Bowl Steakhouse in Ottawa was the perfect grand finale. From the moment we walked in, we knew we were in for something special--and the experience exceeded every expectation. Let's talk service first. The waiting staff were absolutely incredible--attentive, professional, and perfectly timed. You know that sweet spot where they're there when you need them, but never intrusive? They nailed it. Our server was on point, making us feel welcomed and looked after the entire evening. The bartender deserves a shoutout of their own--he crafted what I can only describe as the greatest Old Fashioned of all time. Seriously, I've had many, and this one takes the crown. Even the busser went out of their way to make us feel at home, offering kind words and a smile that instantly elevated the vibe. It felt like every member of the team genuinely cared about the guest experience. And then came the food... We started with the calamari and escargots, and they were nothing short of outstanding. The calamari was perfectly crispy with just the right amount of seasoning, and the escargots were rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. They set the tone for what was to come. For the mains: I had the sirloin steak, cooked to absolute perfection--juicy, tender, and bursting with flavour. My wife ordered the grilled salmon, which was beautifully presented and tasted as fresh as it gets. Our oldest went for the lobster ravioli, and let's just say they're still talking about it. Rich, creamy, and loaded with lobster--an unforgettable dish. Portions were generous (to say the least), and we definitely didn't leave hungry. We were tempted by dessert but had plans to grab gelato elsewhere, so we'll save that for the next visit--which is already a guarantee. Rose Bowl Steakhouse gave us more than just a meal--it gave us a moment. It was the perfect way to wrap up Father's Day: with full hearts, fuller stomachs, and a shared memory we'll be talking about for a long time. If you're in Ottawa and want a place that delivers exceptional food, world-class cocktails, and top-tier hospitality, do yourself a favour and book a table here. You won't regret it.

This was my first time at Rosebowl. We had a reservation for 4 at 7:30PM. We started with 3…read moreappetizers the beef tartare $23, scallops and Arancini. The beef tartare was really good had some pickles, and spicy mustard to compliments it. Scallops and bacon came with a peanut sauce with nice crunchy texture. I didn't try the Arancini (not gluten free). The ambiance is very dark but the little lamp on the table gave really good lighting. Easy to read the menu. For the main I went with prime steak $75 for 18oz medium rare. it comes with broccolini and carrots. For the side we ordered onions, mushrooms, mashed potatoes and bien sur my favourite fries. Most sides are around $7. Wish I would have tried the stuffed baked potato. It will have to be next time. Steak came cooked perfectly. I really enjoyed the mashed potato and my side of fries. My friend ordered the salmon and shared a piece. I thought it was missing flavour for having all the citrus on top. It was also on the dry side. I do have to say that the service was a bit off. Drink ordered all at the same time. Beer came fast, but martinis and drinks were forgotten a few times. We had to ask twice for the same drink that didn't come until much later. Maybe, it's a good thing limited us to 2 drinks. But if you want to enjoy your wine with meal... I was a little too full to look at the dessert menu, next time. Overall, good experience at this steakhouse. I will have to come back over the summer for a date night. lol

The Short Version: Spacious and beautiful restaurant…read more Delicious food. Service was pleasant, but a bit slow. The Long Version: I had dinner here as part of a professional continuing education event sponsored by a pharmaceutical company. We had a section of the restaurant for our event and it was nicely set up with space for a screen and a projector. Even though there were other patrons in the restaurant we could still hear the presentation and our little nook felt private. I started off with a mixed greens salad and it usually comes pre-dressed, but I asked for the dressing on the side and this was accomodated. Vegetables were fresh and it was a mesclun mix, carrots, cucumbers, grape tomatoes, and radishes. The lemon honey dressing was light and not too oily, although I only used about a fifth of what they gave me. For my main I had the salmon which came with a delicious fried polenta cake. The outside was crispy and delicious while the inside was creamy. The salmon was moist and delicious. It came with kale, a tomato confit and an olive tapenade. The flavours complemented each other well and did not over power the salmon. The menu price of the salmon was $39. For dessert I got the gluten-free chocolate brownie, which I was told was made of almond flour. It was a bit crumbly and had a grainy texture. I did not love it. Many others at the event had the Steak Frites and this looked delicious. I was debating between the salmon and the steak and while I enjoyed my salmon I wonder if I did not make the best choice, lol. The menu price of the steak was $49. The other dessert option was a creme brulee which also looked good. And given I wasn't thrilled about my brownie, I felt I should have gotten the other option. Service was pleasant. The wine was flowing freely, lol, but the courses took a while to come out. For these events, the dinner is usually fully served by the end of the educational session presentation, but when the presentation ended they hadn't even served the main course yet. We were a large group of around 30 people. And I don't know if they had their full staffing complement. Attendees were getting antsy towards the end and were asking for their desserts to be packed up to-go. Staff seemed a bit flustered but got the job done. Overall, a beautiful restaurant that is very spacious with multiple sections to the restaurant. Great environment for an event. Food was delicious. Service wasn't as timely, but still courteous and pleasant. Street parking only. Review #83 (2026)

Back in Ottawa for our annual colleague dinner on the first night of CMPA's Prime Time conference…read more The food was great, I had the best wine... A red blended wine, a Syriah-blended with a grape I have never heard about. It was a fixed prix menu for our large group. Lovely steak frites main, cooked perfectly. And a stunning creme brule. Always a great atmosphere and music is always on point. Our service had the most charming, attentive and helpful attendant. Great place.

Wow...wow...wow...WOW! You know how you think you found your…read morefavourite restaurant and you think of that meal with complete fondness and think you'll never find anything better. This was the better. Literally, this is the best meal out I've ever had. There was only one tiny disappointment, which was that I'd looked at an old menu online and didn't realize and picked out this amazing sounding drink beforehand. If you see the Major Payne online, don't pick it in advance! LOL I did get a super nice Prosecco at happy hour for a fabulous price. My server was Jamie, and I ordered every suggestion she made, and was not disappointed. Started with a salad, perfect mix of sweet with charred peanuts for a touch of bitter. The cheese that was on that salad was phenomenal. One of the best salads I've ever eaten. Dinner was the lobster risotto. Hands down, best risotto I've ever eaten...and I thought Vessel in NOLA would never be beaten. So creamy. The butter poached lobster was perfect, so tender. There were macadamia nuts, which broke up the creaminess of the risotto and crispy sage, which was also a perfect break from that rich, perfectly cooked rice. Never had a better dish out. I'll be dreaming about it for months after I go home. I wasn't even thinking about dessert, but Jamie brought over a menu with so many gluten-free options. I got a mini pavlova that had coconut cream inside and raspberries and blueberries. I don't usually enjoy desserts with berries, but the tang was such a perfect compliment to the vanilla/coconut. Nice crispy shell too. It was so light that after the risotto, it didn't make me feel overstuffed. Such a cute, homey vibe, and I had a seat by the window and could watch the busy street. Wonderful that they had a parking lot too (free). Service was perfect. Jamie had a real sense for when she should stop by and kept my water glass filled at all times (and it was small). She was amazing. I left my glasses in the window sill and had pulled the curtain, so I missed them when I left. I went right back and she had held onto them for me. This place is perfection. I know it will be one of the top highlights of this birthday trip! Please, visit and have that lobster risotto. Your tummy will do a happy dance!

Everything top to bottom was incredible. Cocktails (I had the Cherry lane which is similar to a…read moreManhattan) were delicious and well balanced. Apps we got the special scallop in a crusty focaccia (perfectly crispy and creamy) and the tuna tartare (super fresh and flavoured). Mains we had the lobster risotto which was decadent but also well balanced with crispy sage and macadamia nuts garnish. I had the salmon which was amazing and perfectly cooked with a crispy skin and med rare. Dessert was the chocolate crème brûlée with cherries. 5 stars all day. We sat at the chef bar which was interesting and all staff were very friendly and attentive.