Elgin Street - Image 1
1 / 10

Elgin Street

4.6
·491k reviews·Ottawa, Canada

Ottawa's vibrant heart, Elgin Street pulses with diverse dining, lively bars, and a dynamic nightlife scene.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Vibrant nightlife and dining

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Elgin Street - Image 1

Elgin Street

Best Time

Evenings

Vibrant nightlife and dining

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ottawa's vibrant heart, Elgin Street pulses with diverse dining, lively bars, and a dynamic nightlife scene.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Elgin Street offers a fantastic mix of dining and nightlife, perfect for a night out in Ottawa."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore Diverse Dining Options

From casual diners to fine dining, Elgin Street offers a culinary adventure.

🌃 Experience the Nightlife

Elgin Street comes alive at night with numerous bars and clubs.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Lieutenant's Pump

The Lieutenant's Pump

Elgin Street

A popular spot for drinks and a lively atmosphere, known for its bar and restaurant scene.

TikTokInstagram
Elgin Street Diner

Elgin Street Diner

Elgin Street

A go-to for comfort food and late-night cravings, famous for its burgers.

TikTok+1
Giulia

Giulia

Elgin Street

A cozy restaurant perfect for date nights, offering a great dining experience.

TikTok
Al's Steakhouse

Al's Steakhouse

Elgin Street

Experience fine dining with exceptional steaks and seafood in an upscale setting.

Instagram+2
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Elgin Street's Vibe: Day vs. Night

Elgin Street transforms from a daytime hub to a lively nightlife destination. Consider your visit timing: daytime offers a more relaxed atmosphere for shopping and dining, while evenings buzz with bars and clubs. TikTokInstagram

Navigating Elgin Street's Culinary Scene

From casual diners to fine dining, Elgin Street boasts diverse food options. Research restaurants beforehand, especially for popular spots or specific dietary needs, to make the most of your culinary exploration. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Vibrant nightlife and dining
Crowd
High
When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Relaxed dining and drinks
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Quieter dining options
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#Ottawa #Bars #elginstreetdiner #lieutenantspump
@aneetakang
52.3K likes • 1.7M views

🎯 Explore Diverse Dining Options

From casual diners to fine dining, Elgin Street offers a culinary adventure. TikTokInstagram+1

🌃 Experience the Nightlife

Elgin Street comes alive at night with numerous bars and clubs. TikTokInstagram

that heavy breathing you hear in the background is actually me laughing and my asthma acting up… #thelieutenantspump #lieutenantspump #bar #servers #serverlife #restaurant #pumpafterdark #serviceindustry #serverproblems #bartender #elginstreet #361elgin #pump #ottawa #bartenderproblems #nightclublife #ottawanightlife #barbacks #work
@pumpafterdark
6.1K likes • 92.3K views
Who doesn’t love Elgin street for a night out? ✨🤩 #ottawa #gatineau #rideau #orleans #vanier #bywardmarket #centertown #carletonplace #carletonuni #OttawaU #altavista #altavista #hogsback #glebe #sandyhill #calabogie #hintonburg #market #barhaven #kanata #613 #nmgottawa #ontario #canada
northlyottawa
4.4K likes • 266.9K views

🚶‍♀️ Stroll and Discover

Enjoy a walk along Elgin Street to discover unique shops and eateries. TikTok

🥂 Date Night Spot

Giulia is recommended for a cozy and perfect date night experience. TikTok

Did you know there’s a spot on Elgin Street where you can shop, eat, and drink — all in the same visit? 🛍️🍷🦪 Imagine this: you walk in and are greeted by the smell of freshly shucked oysters (yes, they supply the majority of Ottawa’s top restaurants). You wander past displays of premium steaks, fresh seafood, and gourmet pantry items, before discovering their collection of exclusive wines you won...
ottawa.nibbles
120 likes • 6.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore Diverse Dining Options

From casual diners to fine dining, Elgin Street offers a culinary adventure. TikTokInstagram+1

🌃 Experience the Nightlife

Elgin Street comes alive at night with numerous bars and clubs. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll and Discover

Enjoy a walk along Elgin Street to discover unique shops and eateries. TikTok

🥂 Date Night Spot

Giulia is recommended for a cozy and perfect date night experience. TikTok

🍔 Burger Lovers Unite

Elgin Street Diner is a must-visit for delicious burgers. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Elgin Street is celebrated for its vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene, offering everything from casual diners to upscale steakhouses. Visitors praise the lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings, and the wide array of dining options. However, some find it can get very crowded and noisy, particularly on weekends.

What People Like

Lively nightlife
Diverse dining options
Great bars and restaurants

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Noisy on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Elgin Street is centrally located in downtown Ottawa, making it accessible by public transit, car, or on foot. Several OC Transpo bus routes service the area. Parking can be found in nearby garages and street parking is available, though it can be competitive. TikTok

Yes, Elgin Street is very walkable and is a popular destination for strolls, especially in the downtown core. TikTok

Walking is ideal to soak in the atmosphere and discover various shops and restaurants. Consider using ride-sharing services for convenience. TikTok

Elgin Street is close to Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, and the ByWard Market, making it a great starting point for exploring Ottawa. Instagram

Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Elgin Street itself is a public street and does not require tickets for access. Individual establishments like restaurants and bars may have their own entry policies or cover charges. TikTok

Elgin Street is always accessible, but individual businesses have varying hours. Restaurants and bars are typically open into the late evening, especially on weekends. TikTokInstagram

Elgin Street often hosts events, from street festivals to specific venue happenings. It's best to check local event listings or venue social media for current information. TikTokInstagram

Some bars and nightclubs on Elgin Street may have cover charges, especially on busy nights. It's advisable to check with the specific venue beforehand. TikTokInstagram

For popular restaurants, especially for dinner or weekend visits, booking a table in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Elgin Street offers a diverse culinary scene, including steakhouses, diners, Greek cuisine, and international options. You can find everything from casual burgers to fine dining experiences. TikTokInstagram+2

Yes, Giulia is highly recommended for a cozy date night, and other establishments like Al's Steakhouse offer a more upscale dining experience. TikTokInstagram+1

Elgin Street Diner is a popular choice for burgers, often featured in reviews and social media content. TikTok

While specific options vary by restaurant, many establishments on Elgin Street are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan choices. It's best to check menus online or call ahead. Instagram

Highly-rated spots include Al's Steakhouse for fine dining, Giulia for date nights, and Elgin Street Diner for casual eats. TikTokInstagram+2

🎫 nightlife

The Lieutenant's Pump is a well-known bar on Elgin Street, offering a lively atmosphere. Other spots cater to various preferences, from casual pubs to more energetic clubs. TikTokInstagram+1

Absolutely! Elgin Street is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide array of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different tastes. TikTokInstagram

Bar closing times on Elgin Street typically vary, but many stay open until 2 AM or later, especially on weekends. TikTok

Yes, Elgin Street has several clubs and late-night venues that are popular for dancing and socializing. TikTokInstagram

At night, Elgin Street transforms into a bustling hub of activity, with a lively and energetic atmosphere driven by its numerous bars and entertainment venues. TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

Look for unique restaurant facades, vibrant street art, and the lively atmosphere of the bars and diners. The 'Good Neighbour' installation referencing the raccoon fight is a unique photo op. TikTok

Yes, Elgin Street offers many opportunities for photography, from architectural details to street life. Be mindful of crowds, especially during evenings. TikTok

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can offer beautiful lighting. Evenings provide a dynamic, vibrant scene for capturing the nightlife. TikTok

While not a single landmark, the street itself, with its diverse businesses and bustling activity, serves as a dynamic backdrop. The 'Good Neighbour' raccoon art is a notable spot. TikTok

Generally, yes, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid disrupting other patrons or staff. Some establishments might have specific policies. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Elgin Street is primarily known for its nightlife and dining, families can still find enjoyable experiences. The Elgin Street Diner offers a casual, kid-friendly atmosphere with a menu that appeals to all ages.TikTok During the day, exploring the street can be pleasant, and nearby attractions like Parliament Hill offer family-oriented activities. Consider visiting during daytime hours to avoid the late-night crowds. TikTok

Look for restaurants with more relaxed seating and diverse menus. While not a primary family destination, a daytime stroll and a meal at a casual eatery can make for a pleasant outing. TikTok

🥂 Couples and Date Nights

Elgin Street is a fantastic choice for couples looking for a memorable date night. Giulia is frequently recommended for its cozy ambiance and excellent food, making it an ideal spot for a romantic evening.TikTok For a more upscale experience, Al's Steakhouse offers fine dining with a sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for special occasions.Instagram+1

After dinner, couples can enjoy a drink at one of the many bars, such as The Lieutenant's Pump, which provides a lively yet comfortable setting for conversation and enjoyment. TikTokInstagram The street's vibrant energy after dark adds to the overall romantic and exciting experience. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Elgin Street offers options for budget-conscious travelers, particularly if you focus on casual dining and happy hour deals. The Elgin Street Diner is a great choice for affordable and filling meals.TikTok Many pubs and bars offer daily specials and happy hour promotions, which can be a cost-effective way to enjoy the nightlife. TikTok

Exploring the street during the day and opting for lunch specials or happy hour drinks can help manage expenses. While some fine dining establishments can be pricey, the variety ensures that budget travelers can still experience the essence of Elgin Street. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Elgin Street's Culinary Landscape

Elgin Street is a culinary hotspot in Ottawa, offering a diverse range of dining experiences. From the iconic Elgin Street Diner, known for its hearty burgers and late-night service,TikTok to upscale establishments like Al's Steakhouse, which boasts fine dining with premium steaks and seafood,Instagram+1 there's something to satisfy every palate. For a more intimate setting, Giulia is frequently recommended as a perfect spot for date nights, praised for its cozy ambiance and great food.TikTok The street also features international flavors, with mentions of Greek cuisine Instagram and other global influences, making it a true gastronomic destination. Instagram

Beyond full-service restaurants, Elgin Street offers a vibrant mix of cafes, pubs, and eateries. The Lieutenant's Pump is a popular choice for both food and drinks, contributing to the street's lively atmosphere.TikTokInstagram Visitors can explore options that combine shopping with dining, offering a unique experience where one can browse gourmet items before enjoying a meal.Instagram Whether you're seeking a quick bite or a leisurely multi-course meal, Elgin Street provides a rich tapestry of culinary choices for locals and tourists alike. TikTok

When planning your dining experience, consider making reservations for popular spots, especially during peak hours or weekends, as many establishments are highly sought after. Exploring the menus online beforehand can also help you make the most of your visit and discover hidden gems. TikTokInstagram

The Nightlife Hub of Elgin Street

Elgin Street truly comes alive after dark, establishing itself as one of Ottawa's premier nightlife destinations. The street is lined with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs, offering a dynamic atmosphere for those looking to socialize and enjoy the evening. The Lieutenant's Pump is frequently highlighted as a go-to spot, known for its energetic vibe and as a popular meeting place.TikTokInstagram Visitors can expect a range of entertainment options, from casual drinks to more lively clubbing experiences. TikTokInstagram

The diversity of venues ensures that there's something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for a relaxed drink in a pub setting or a night of dancing, Elgin Street caters to various preferences. Many establishments offer late-night service, making it an ideal location for post-dinner drinks or a full night out on the town. TikTokInstagram

It's worth noting that on weekend nights, Elgin Street can become quite busy, contributing to its vibrant energy. Some venues may have cover charges, especially during peak hours. Planning your visit or checking venue-specific information can enhance your experience. TikTok

Unique Finds and Local Flavor

Elgin Street isn't just about dining and nightlife; it also offers unique experiences and local flavor that capture the spirit of Ottawa. One such highlight is the 'Good Neighbour' installation, a creative ode to an iconic local event, adding a touch of quirky art and local history to the streetscape.TikTok This kind of unique public art and cultural commentary adds depth to the visitor experience, encouraging exploration and discovery beyond the typical attractions. TikTok

The street also serves as a hub for various events and gatherings. From fashion shows and art exhibitions TikTok to busker festivals on nearby streets like Sparks Street,Instagram Elgin Street and its surroundings are often buzzing with activity. These events provide excellent opportunities to engage with the local community and experience the city's cultural pulse. TikTok

For those interested in the local scene, exploring the diverse businesses along Elgin Street can lead to unexpected finds. Whether it's a unique shop, a cozy cafe, or a spot with a story, the street encourages a sense of discovery. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2