Where to eat and drink in Kanata

The city's food scene, especially Japanese and South East Asian, stand out

Kanata may be a bit outside of Ottawa, but that doesn’t mean the food here isn’t great. The city delivers, whether it’s memorable Chinese, delectable sushi or artisan chocolates, you’re bound to find something good. Our editor shares his personal favourites that you need to try.

Harbin Restaurant

Harbin pork in bean sauce

Pork in bean sauce. Ralf Joneikies/Ottawa Lookout

After my years in Toronto and Vancouver, I’m always on the lookout for the best Chinese restaurants in the Ottawa area and Harbin met the challenge with terrific dishes.

Windbell Sushi

Windbell sushi assortment.

Windbell sushi assortment. Ralf Joneikies/Ottawa Lookout

Windbell is rather poetically named and while my GPS struggled a little in this relatively new subdivision in Kanata, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the fish and its construction in the various iterations.

Sushi Eki

  • Name + address: Sushi Eki, 471 Hazeldean Rd Unit 7A

  • Website: www.sushieki.ca

Sushi Eki opened in 2023 and with its reasonably priced and decently made dine-in or takeaway offerings, it won the hearts of locals for its freshness and selection.

My Thai Village

My Thai Village. Ralf Joneikies/Ottawa Lookout

My Thai Village is tucked away, almost hidden, in a corner of a stripmall off Hazeldean Rd. While it may strike some as out of the way, it offers truly credible Thai dishes at reasonable prices, especially at lunch.

Thai Flame

Thai Flame didn’t impress very much on the first visit years ago but on this last try, the food had been elevated in presentation and intensity of flavours. A very good Thai destination. 

Chez Lam

Chicken and beef stir fry at Chez Lam

Chicken and beef stir fry at Chez Lam. Ralf Joneikies/Ottawa Lookout

Revisiting Chez Lam this year after almost two years away, I was delighted to find that the food was as good as ever. They do offer a few Thai dishes but you’re here for the Vietnamese food which ranks as some of the best in the National Capital Region.

Kichesippi Beer Co.

  • Name + address: Kichesippi Beer Co., 2265 Robertson Road

  • Website: www.kbeer.ca

Arriving back in Ottawa after a long absence, it was a distinct pleasure to discover that I could find authentic German beer in the capital. Brewmaster Phil Kochanke studied at the world’s most prestigious brewing academy in Munich and the results show in every sip.

Their on-site food trucks may be closed for the season but you can fill your belly with fresh small bites from their kitchen.

Anna Stubbe Chocolates

We finally arrive at dessert and Anna Stubbe knows something about chocolate. Hers are the product of generational influences and the quality is first-rate. She also offers wildly delicious cakes and low-sugar and sugar-free chocolates.