We could all use a good budget-friendly bite—something that fills us up, makes us happy, and doesn't empty our wallets. And just because it's cheap doesn't mean it has to be low quality!
Ottawa's food scene is packed with hidden gems where you can score tasty eats for under $10. From juicy burgers to mouth-water shawarma, these spots deliver big taste without the big price tag. So, if you're on the hunt for the best budget bites in the capital, I've got you covered.
Here are eight of the best cheap eats in Ottawa that prove you can enjoy great food without breaking the bank.
Aladdin Bakery
Price: 💸
Cuisine: Lebanese
Address: Multiple locations
Aladdin Bakery is the ultimate spot for affordable, delicious bites that locals love. This family-owned shop has been serving up traditional Lebanese pies for decades, feeding generations of families with their tasty treats. While these pies might be a breakfast staple in Lebanon, they're a hit with Ottawans at any time of day. Whether you're into meat and cheese, spinach, or potato, there's a pie for everyone.
At less than $5 a pop, this place is a budget dream. You and a friend can easily eat for under $10, but don't forget to hit the ATM first because it's cash only!
The Third
Price: 💸
Cuisine: Comfort classics
Address: 1017 Wellington St W, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: The Third is hands down the best spot in Ottawa for affordable sit-down dining. While not every item on the menu is under $10, their burger and fries combo hits the sweet spot.
For just $10, you get a juicy flat-top burger with a side of fries—a total steal for the quality and portion size. It's a rare find in the city, especially when fast food places can't even compete at that price. If you're craving a delicious burger that won't break the bank, this is the place to be!
Ventuno
Price: 💸
Cuisine: Italian
Address: 1355 Wellington St W, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Ventuno is the G.O.A.T., trust me. As an Italian grocery and restaurant combo, they've got a unique edge—they pull products straight off their shelves to create their menu, which means they're able to keep costs super low.
They've got several options under $10, and you could probably grab a few things and still stay on budget. But let me tell you about my absolute favourite: the Ventuno Polpetta.
Polpetta means meatballs in Italian, and these ones are next-level. I usually don't even look at meatballs on a menu because no one can beat my Nonna's recipe, but Ventuno's are seriously amazing. For just $10, you get these perfectly saucy, flavour-packed bites that taste like Sunday dinner back home. Bliss.
Ha's Dim Sum
Dim sum.
Price: 💸
Cuisine: Dim Sum
Address: 870 Somerset St W. Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Who doesn't love a good dumpling, right? At Ha's, you can enjoy the entire Dim Sum menu for under $10, so you've got plenty of options to choose from. But if I had to pick a favourite, it's gotta be the pork shiu mai.
I'm not usually picky about my dumplings—I love them in all shapes, sizes, and flavours—but the pork shiu mai is a must-have in my lineup every single time. Juicy, flavourful, and perfectly steamed, it's a total game-changer. Trust me, you'll want to add this one to your rotation too!
Golden Palace
Price: 💸
Cuisine: Chinese
Address: 2195 Carling Ave. Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Egg rolls. The ones from Golden Palace are legendary in Ottawa, and for good reason. These crispy, golden beauties are so popular they even sell them by the dozen! And at just $2.65 each, you can indulge without breaking the bank.
If you've never tried this iconic Ottawa snack, you're seriously missing out. It's time to catch up and see what all the hype is about. Head to Golden Palace and experience the magic for yourself.
Lil Z's
Price: 💸
Cuisine: Pizza
Address: 45 Clarence St. Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Lil Z's is on a mission to revive Ottawa's slice culture, and they're absolutely nailing it. Finding a great slice of pizza isn't easy, but this spot is bringing the magic back.
The best part? You can score a slice, dip, and a drink for just $8—talk about a steal! It feels like a throwback to the good old days when pizza was affordable and delicious. As a sister restaurant to King Eddy, Lil Z's definitely deserves some love.
Ward 14 Consignment Bar
Price: 💸
Cuisine: Hot dogs and snacks
Address: 139 Preston St. Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: I've got a little two-for-one deal for you. We all know and love Ward 14's iconic hot dogs, but they've recently upped their game with an expanded menu.
Their $10 OTT Dog is an authentic Canadian creation, loaded with Kraft Dinner, maple ketchup, bacon, and a classic hot dog—perfect for a late-night bite after a couple of drinks.
And speaking of drinks, I'd be slacking if I didn't mention the best drink deal in the city. The Ward 14 "special" gets you a tall can of lager and a shot (usually Jamo or tequila) for just $9.
Bottom line: Ward 14 is your go-to spot for a good time on a budget, whether you're craving a bite or a bev.
Shawarma Al Mouna
Price: 💸
Cuisine: Shawarma
Address: 1266 Wellington St W. Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Ottawa and shawarma go hand-in-hand, but this time, I'm shining the spotlight on a lesser-known gem. Tucked away in Wellington Village is Shawarma Al Mouna, where you can snag a delicious wrap for under $10!
I don't need to explain what makes good shawarma to an Ottawan, but the key is a perfect balance of flavour, top-notch ingredients, and solid structure. Shawarma Al Mouna nails all of that—and keeps it budget-friendly.