Savour the City: In Ottawa on business? Two ByWard bars selected as best for dining solo (OBJ)
Ottawa Business Journal - September 25, 2024
What makes a good bar seat? As a self-proclaimed expert at sitting at the bar, there are a few things that need to be taken into consideration when asking this question.
First and foremost, throw your idea of price out the window. This is a matter of preference. Some of us want a cheap beer in a local dive, while others need a well-crafted cocktail after a long day. Lucky for you, this list includes both.
Of course, having a comfortable seat is an obvious want, but to me it can be outweighed immensely by good service and a good vibe. Perhaps most importantly, the food needs to be good. This may seem obvious, and that’s because it is.
All in all, the marriage of an attentive bartender serving up a quality drink of your choice with good food in a cool place means your experience is bound to be exactly what you need.
Without further ado, here is the list of the best bar seats in Ottawa, whether you’re visiting or living in the city.
Downtown
Chez Lucien – 137 Murray St., Ottawa
Interior shot of Chez Lucien / OBJ
I had to start this list with a classic. Chez Lucien would be a television director’s first choice for shooting a buddy flick in Ottawa, where the protagonist spends much of his time with his friends at the local bar. This is Family Guy’s The Clam, How I Met Your Mother’s MacLaren’s, and Paddy’s Pub in Always Sunny.
The classic vibes are only enhanced by the selection of local and international beers and you won’t go hungry trying any of the elevated pub menu items, none more infamous perhaps than the Chez Lucien burger, fries and salad combo that has kept Ottawans happy for years. The Chez Lu experience is excellent in general, but is best when sitting at its beloved wooden bar.
Giulia – 350 Elgin St. / 61 York St., Ottawa
Smiling Bartender at Giulia / OBJ