Ottawa’s restaurant scene is ever-evolving, with new names and locations — as well as some closures — being announced. OBJ took to social media to find out what’s opening, what’s moving and what’s closing this fall. 

Strati Tiramisù

Calling itself Ottawa’s first “dedicated tiramisu bar,” Strati opened in late August at 891 Bank St. near Lansdowne Park. The new restaurant offers the popular Italian dessert in various flavours, including classic, pistachio, Nutella, strawberry, maple, matcha and mango. 

Goldie’s Outpost

Located at 41 Third Ave. in the Glebe, Goldie’s Outpost opened this summer. The new “neighbourhood café” offers sandwiches, coffee, tea, pastries and freshly squeezed orange juice. 

Veronica’s Snack Bar

Located at 225 Preston St., Veronica’s Snack Bar opened on Oct. 27. It serves shareable plates and cocktails in a space with a hint of 1970s nostalgia. 

Bouquet

Opening on Nov. 18, this restaurant will offer a new culinary experience at the Casino Lac-Leamy in Gatineau, with small bites and shared meals made with locally sourced ingredients, as well as a live DJ every Thursday night.

Di Rienzo Deli 

Popular Ottawa deli Di Rienzo at 59 Champagne Ave. S. is for sale at $2,899,900 for both the business and the building. 

“A beloved Ottawa landmark. An exceptional opportunity to own a piece of the city’s history,” says a description of the property on Realtor.ca. “For generations, Di Rienzo’s Grocery & Deli has been a cherished neighbourhood staple, known for its authentic Italian sandwiches, specialty groceries, and loyal customer following. More than just a business, Di Rienzo’s has become part of Ottawa’s culinary identity, attracting generations of customers who return for the quality, tradition and familiar experience. Now, a rare opportunity presents itself to acquire both this established business and the real estate it calls home.” 

The property occupies 4,499 square feet on a corner lot in Little Italy. 

The Cake Shop

The Cake Shop at 1200 Wellington St. W. will close in March, the business announced recently. 

“After 26 wonderful years, it is with bittersweet emotions that we announce The Cake Shop will be closing its doors on March 31, 2027, as our owner, Nadine Hecht, prepares for retirement,” the business said on its website. 

“Since opening in 2000, we have been incredibly proud to be Ottawa’s first 100 per cent peanut and tree nut free bakery, creating a place where families with allergies could celebrate safely and everyone could enjoy a delicious cake. From birthdays and weddings to anniversaries and everyday celebrations, it has been an honour to be part of so many special moments in your lives.”

Vanitea Room

The Vanitea Room at 551 Somerset St. W. announced recently on social media that its final day of operations will be Oct. 31.

“Since opening our doors in 2015, Vanitea has been so much more than a restaurant. It has been a place for celebrations, special occasions, familiar faces, new friendships and countless memories shared around the table,” the Vanitea Room posted on Instagram. “Building Vanitea has been an incredibly meaningful chapter made possible by the people who have walked through our doors and, especially, the team who have brought this space to life over the years.”

Pancho Villa

Pancho Villa, a longstanding Mexican restaurant on Elgin Street, closed Sept. 27 after 42 years. 

“The decision was heartbreaking for our family to make. For 42 years, this restaurant has been more than just a business to us – it has been our second home and all of you have been our extended family,” the Pancho Villa team wrote on Instagram earlier this month.