Hello, fellow adventurers! 🌟 It’s your friendly travel companion here, and I’m excited to share my fantastic dining experience at Tavern at the Gallery in Ottawa. Nestled within the charming courtyard garden of the National Gallery of Canada, this seasonal outdoor restaurant offers a perfect blend of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a delightful ambiance. Ready to explore my evening? Let’s dive in!
A Hidden Gem in Ottawa
Located at 380 Sussex Drive, Tavern at the Gallery is a true oasis in the heart of the city. The restaurant’s setting is absolutely stunning, especially in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The garden setting, combined with the swanky patio design featuring fire pits and cozy seating, makes it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal or a fun gathering with friends.
Culinary Delights
During our visit, we had the pleasure of trying several delectable dishes. My absolute favorite was the Spicy Sausage Pizza. Topped with marinara, Calabrese sausage, red pepper, red onion, arugula, and a hot honey drizzle, this pizza was a delightful explosion of flavors. The balance between the spicy sausage and the sweetness of the honey was simply irresistible.
We also enjoyed the Pepperoni Pizza, a classic choice that never disappoints! With marinara, mozzarella, and pepperoni, it was a perfect example of how simplicity can lead to perfection.
The Margherita Pizza was another highlight of our meal. This classic pizza, topped with fresh mozzarella, vibrant tomatoes, and fragrant basil, was a testament to the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients. The crust was perfectly crisp, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes. It’s a must-try for anyone who appreciates traditional Italian flavors.
For dessert, we indulged in both the Lemon Cake and the Black Forest Cake. The lemon cake was refreshingly tangy and light, while the black forest cake was rich and decadent. Both were the perfect sweet endings to a wonderful meal.
Refreshing Drinks
To complement our meal, we tried the Peroni beer, the Kimchi Caesar and the Red Sangria. The Kimchi Caesar was a unique twist on a classic, featuring Absolut vodka and clamato juice with a spicy kick from the kimchi, making it a bold and flavorful choice. The Red Sangria was a delightful blend of house wine, peach liqueur, orange liqueur, pineapple, cranberry, and ginger ale. It was refreshingly sweet with a hint of tartness, perfect for sipping on a warm evening.
The Menu and More
The menu at Tavern at the Gallery offers a variety of options to suit all tastes. From gourmet pizzas and poke bowls to charcuterie boards and salads, there’s something for everyone. The food is made from scratch and uses high-quality ingredients, ensuring a delicious dining experience every time.
The patio is not only beautiful but also dog-friendly, making it a great spot to bring your furry friends. Adding to the charm, there is live music, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a cozy date night spot or a place to unwind with friends, Tavern at the Gallery has it all.
Practical Information
- Location: 380 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario
- Hours of Operation:
- Sunday-Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday-Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
- Reservations: Recommended, especially during peak hours. You can make a reservation via OpenTable.
- Parking: Street parking is available nearby.
- Public Transit: Easily accessible via local bus routes with a stop close to the National Gallery of Canada.
Final Thoughts
My experience at Tavern at the Gallery was truly delightful. The combination of a picturesque setting, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere made it a memorable evening. If you’re in Ottawa, I highly recommend visiting this hidden gem for a fantastic dining experience.
Until next time, keep exploring with joy and curiosity! Remember, life’s too short for dull moments. Keep exploring, keep loving, and keep living. Sending you all my best vibes!
Xoxo,
Bubbly🎈
