'Chow Bella' - Bringing Italy to Ottawa 

Ottawa Travel Guide

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Wednesday, 30 January 2013 07:29

Visitors who are planning on visiting Canada's capital will likely need a few restaurant ideas between their visits to the various museums and the beautiful Rideau Canal. Many may not automatically think that Ottawa and Italian food go hand-in-hand, but they just haven't been to the city's Little Italy neighbourhood on Preston Street. Besides Little Italy, there are also a number of delicious Italian restaurants in downtown Ottawa. Here are a few favourites in Canada's capital. 

La Dolce Vita
Those who are looking for authentic Italian pizza will not have to look any further than La Dolce Vita in the heart of Little Italy at 180 Preston Street. The restaurant has been awarded with the Best Pizza in 2011 on Preston Street, which is saying a lot for its location. Those who have gluten allergies can also take advantage of its extensive gluten-free menu.

Vittoria Trattoria  
This restaurant mixes authentic Italian cuisine with an extensive wine list and great service. Vittoria Trattoria is perfect for a romantic dinner for two or a big group event such as a family reunion. The restaurant has been around for nearly 20 years, and now has two separate locations - 35 William Street and 3625 Rivergate Way. 

Tosca Ristorante 
Located at 144 O'Connor Street, Tosca Ristorante is an upscale Italian restaurant complete with traditional and contemporary fare. The elegant style of the establishment coupled with some of its amazing dishes such as the Veal Gamberetti, Chicken Calabrese or Risotto Pescatore makes for quite the evening out.

Biagio's Italian Kitchen
This Italian eatery opened its doors in 1999, and has been a hit ever since. Everything is made to order with fresh and delicious ingredients. BIagio's Italian Kitchen, located at 1394 Richmond Road, is known for its homemade pastas and pizzas as well as delicious grilled meats.

Stella Osteria 
Flavourful and fresh ingredients in modern Italian food is what visitors will find at Stella Osteria, located at 81 Clarence Street. There are a few items on the menu that are considered "Stella Originals" such as Crispy Fried Zucchini and Braised Short Rib Gnocchi, which comes with caramelized onions, mushrooms, baby spinach, tomato and a veal jus reduction. This establishment not only has delicious food and drinks, but it is also environmentally conscious and bottles its own still or sparkling water. Guests can enjoy this unique perk while also saving money when they order bottled water.