Ottawa Isn’t Just About Parliament Anymore as Its Food Scene Grows
Ottawa has long been known for politics, museums, and historic landmarks, but a growing number of travelers are now paying attention to something else: its food scene.
One of the clearest signs of that shift is the upcoming opening of a new restaurant by internationally renowned chef Akira Back inside the Fairmont Château Laurier, scheduled for early 2026. Known for modern Japanese cuisine with global influences, Chef Back operates restaurants in major travel hubs such as Paris, London, Dubai, Hong Kong, Seoul, Toronto, and San Francisco. His decision to open in Ottawa places the city alongside destinations already recognized for dining-driven travel.
For visitors, this matters because hotel-based fine dining has become part of how trips are planned. Travelers increasingly look for destinations where standout restaurants are integrated into walkable, well-located areas, especially during short stays. The Fairmont Château Laurier’s central location near Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal makes it an ideal base for travelers who want cultural sightseeing and memorable meals without added logistics.
Early details suggest the restaurant will feature a refined but accessible menu, including sushi, signature dishes, and seasonal offerings. With seating for just over 100 guests and private dining areas, it’s designed to appeal not only to locals but also to visitors seeking a high-quality dining experience built into their stay.
Ottawa’s food evolution isn’t happening in isolation. The city has seen steady growth in chef-driven restaurants, multicultural cuisine, and elevated hotel dining, reflecting broader travel trends where food plays a central role in destination choice.
For travelers who once viewed Ottawa as a short stop rather than a culinary destination, developments like this signal change. The city is positioning itself as a place where history, location, and dining come together — making it increasingly appealing for travelers who plan trips around both what they see and what they eat.
