Ottawa’s Best Cheap Eats Under $25 (April 2025)

Whether you’re saving for a down payment, avoiding another $50 brunch tab, or just want to find your new go-to spot, we’ve got you. Ottawa’s food scene is packed with local gems that are big on flavour and easy on the wallet. These 8 spots serve up killer meals — all under $25 — across breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert.

🍔 BFF Burgers

📍329 Bank St, Ottawa
💰 $9–12 per burger | $5–10 sides
Gourmet burgers, massive portions, and a vibe that’s equal parts casual and Instagrammable. Don’t miss their monthly rotating specials — they’re some of the most creative burgers in town.

🌮 Ahora Mexican Cuisine

📍307 Dalhousie St, Ottawa
💰 Meals as low as $9.25
Authentic Mexican food in a colourful, lively spot right in the ByWard Market. Tacos, burritos, enchiladas — it’s all fresh, fast, and loaded with flavour. Pro tip: add the house guac.

🍜 Shanghai Wonton Noodle

📍178 Rideau St, Ottawa
💰 $5–12 for most dishes
A hidden gem for affordable Chinese comfort food. The wonton noodle soup is legendary, and you’ll be in and out with a full belly for under $15. Ideal for solo lunch breaks or pre-shopping fuel.

🥗 Green Door Buffet

📍198 Main St, Ottawa
💰 ~$7–20 (priced by weight)
Vegetarian, but far from boring. This pay-by-weight buffet lets you build your perfect plate from scratch-made salads, curries, and baked goods. The takeaway option is perfect for weekday lunch.

🍳 Wilf & Ada’s

📍510 Bank St, Ottawa
💰 Most meals $20–25
A scratch diner with a cult following. Try the BLT with a fried egg or go full brunch mode with their French toast or eggs benny — all made with fresh, local ingredients. Come early to avoid the wait.

🍕 Pizza Nerds

📍1435 Wellington St W, Ottawa
💰 $20–23 for a full pizza
Artisan pies that are totally worth the hype. Share with a friend or polish off a whole pizza solo (no judgment here). They’ve got classic options and funky weekly specials — all fire.

🍰 Oh So Good Desserts

📍25 York St, Ottawa
💰 $7–10 for desserts & drinks
If you haven’t had dessert here yet… you need to. They serve thick slices of rich cake (try the raspberry chocolate truffle), plus snacks and cozy drinks in a laid-back downtown café.

☕ Bonus Tip:

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