Cheap Restaurants in Ottawa

Food is such an important part of life because it gives us energy and it is a very important facet of a person’s social life. Nonetheless, undergraduate students are on a budget, so we avoid spending too much on food. But, sometimes we just feel too lazy or stressed to cook or we just want to eat out with our friends. Therefore, in this blog I will provide all my Ottawa undergraduates with a list of cheap restaurants in Ottawa.

Shawarma Palace

When I think of cheap, tasty, and affordable food, shawarma is the first thing that comes to mind. This is a delicious Lebanese delicacy in the form of a platter or wrap which contains chicken or beef, salads, rice, potatoes, garlic sauce, and hummus. In fact, although it’s Lebanese, Ottawa is actually known to be the shawarma capital of the world (Chen, 2020). Moreover, in my opinion and the opinion of the entire city, Shawarma Palace is the best shawarma in Ottawa (Chen, 2020). It is so loved that there are multiple locations with one being directly on Rideau St, which is just minutes away from the uOttawa campus.

In general, the food is very tasty and filling. Moreover, two people can easily share a platter and be full within $20. Hence, it is an excellent place for a friends gathering. Not only that, they even offer a family platter for 4 within the price of $70.95. Therefore, if you don’t feel like cooking for a week, then just get this platter and you will be set.

Via Cibo (Website)

Authentic Italian food can be known to be pretty expensive. When students have an urge for some good pasta, we will try to satisfy that urge with jarred pasta sauce or Kraft Dinner, which is just not it. Hence, Via Cibo is the perfect restaurant for cheap and tasty authentic Italian food.

The majority of the food is around $15, but it is located in Kanata which is a bit far. However, their low prices and tasty food makes up for that travel time. Moreover, they have a very comfortable and chic ambiance with indoor and outdoor dining which makes it an excellent place for a date or simply hanging out with friends.  

El Furniture Warehouse (Website)

Us undergraduate students love our pub and comfort foods. Especially during game seasons when we need our wings, nachos, burgers and more. However, all these foods can be a little expensive. Nevertheless, EI Furniture Warehouse aka Warehouse which is located in the heart of downtown on Clarence St is a delicious and affordable place for all these comfort foods. All of their food is less than $10 with huge and delicious portions.  That is what I call a win-win situation!

Now, I am not promoting excessive drinking, but students of legal age do sometimes require a little alcohol to keep the fun going. Thus, Warehouse offers power hour everyday from 4pm to 5pm where you can get 8oz beer for $1.95. So students get ready to get your party on in a responsible and affordable fashion!  

Corazon De Maiz

Sometimes eating the same old food and flavors can get very boring. Sometimes we just crave some spice and exotic flavors, but exploring different cuisines for an undergraduate student can be costly. However, Corazon De Maiz has solved that issue. This is a small family run Mexican restaurant located in the Byward market. They are known to serve authentic, spicy, and flavorful Mexican food at an affordable price. You can easily eat a filling and delicious meal here at under $15.

In summation, don't waste time and start making some dinner or lunch plans at these restaurants. Subsequently, make sure to message me on Instagram or through the "Contact" page to tell me your thoughts on these restaurants or any other restaurants that should be added onto this list.  Thank you