Ottawa's craft beer scene has quietly become one of the best in Canada.

While cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver often get the spotlight, Ottawa has built an impressive lineup of local breweries producing award-winning beers that rival anything you'll find across the country. Whether you're a fan of crisp lagers, juicy IPAs, rich stouts, refreshing wheat beers, or easy-drinking patio pints, there's something for every beer lover in the capital.

If you're looking to expand your beer horizons or simply want to know what locals are drinking this summer, here are some of the best beers brewed right here in Ottawa.

🍺 Kichesippi 1855

Ask a dozen Ottawa beer drinkers for recommendations and Kichesippi 1855 will almost certainly come up.

Why people love it:

• Easy drinking

• Balanced flavour

• Great year-round beer

• Locally brewed

It's often considered one of Ottawa's signature beers and is a great introduction to the city's craft brewing scene.

Best enjoyed:
✔ Patio afternoons
✔ BBQ season
✔ Watching the game

🍻 Beyond the Pale Pink Fuzz

One of Ottawa's most recognizable craft beers.

Pink Fuzz is a grapefruit wheat ale that has developed a loyal following throughout the city.

What to expect:

• Citrus flavour

• Light body

• Refreshing finish

• Perfect summer beer

If you've spent time on an Ottawa patio, chances are you've seen this beer being poured.

🍺 Tooth and Nail Vim & Vigor

Tooth and Nail has earned a reputation for producing consistently excellent beer.

Vim & Vigor remains one of their most popular offerings.

Features:

• Crisp lager profile

• Clean finish

• Extremely drinkable

• Great with food

For many locals, it's one of Ottawa's most underrated beers.

🍻 Dominion City Sunsplit IPA

Dominion City Brewing has become one of the most respected breweries in the region.

Sunsplit IPA is a favourite among hop lovers thanks to its:

• Tropical notes

• Juicy flavour

• Balanced bitterness

• Smooth finish

It's the kind of beer that converts people into IPA fans.

🍺 Dominion City Two Flags IPA

Another standout from Dominion City.

Why beer enthusiasts love it:

• Bold hop character

• Local ingredients

• Complex flavour profile

• Excellent freshness

One of Ottawa's most talked-about IPAs.

🍻 Spark Beer Co. Pilsner

Spark Beer has developed a strong reputation for experimental and traditional brewing styles.

Their pilsner is:

• Light

• Crisp

• Refreshing

• Extremely patio-friendly

Ideal for hot Ottawa summer days.

🍺 Bicycle Craft Brewery Velocipede IPA

Located in the east end, Bicycle Craft Brewery continues to produce some excellent local beer.

Velocipede IPA offers:

• Citrus notes

• Smooth finish

• Balanced hops

• Approachable flavour

Perfect for IPA beginners and enthusiasts alike.

🍻 Broadhead Blueberry Blonde

Looking for something a little different?

Broadhead's Blueberry Blonde combines:

• Light malt profile

• Subtle blueberry flavour

• Summer refreshment

A unique Ottawa beer that often surprises first-time drinkers.

🍺 Ashton Amber Ale

A local favourite for years.

This amber ale is known for:

• Rich flavour

• Smooth finish

• Great balance

• Ottawa brewing heritage

It's particularly popular during cooler evenings and fall months.

🍻 Stray Dog Shaggin' Wagon IPA

Based just outside Ottawa, Stray Dog has built a loyal following.

This IPA delivers:

• Strong hop character

• Tropical flavours

• Excellent aroma

• Smooth drinkability

A must-try for craft beer fans.

Best Ottawa Breweries to Visit

Sometimes the experience is just as important as the beer.

Dominion City Brewing

Popular for:

• Excellent IPAs

• Community atmosphere

• Outdoor events

Beyond the Pale

Known for:

• Pink Fuzz

• Spacious brewery

• Strong beer lineup

Kichesippi Beer Co.

A local staple with a welcoming taproom and excellent core beers.

Tooth and Nail

A favourite among serious craft beer enthusiasts.

Spark Beer

Combining craft beer with outstanding pizza and a lively atmosphere.

Best Beers for Ottawa Patio Season

If you're spending time outdoors this summer, these beers pair perfectly with warm weather:

Pink Fuzz

Refreshing and citrusy.

Kichesippi 1855

Easy-drinking and crowd-pleasing.

Spark Pilsner

Light and crisp.

Broadhead Blueberry Blonde

Perfect for sunny afternoons.

Vim & Vigor

Clean and refreshing.

Best Beer Styles for Beginners

Not everyone loves a super hoppy IPA.

If you're new to craft beer, try:

• Blonde ales

• Wheat beers

• Pilsners

• Lagers

• Kölsch styles

Great beginner options include:

• Pink Fuzz

• Kichesippi 1855

• Spark Pilsner

• Broadhead Blueberry Blonde

Ottawa's Craft Beer Scene Keeps Growing

One of the reasons Ottawa's beer scene continues to thrive is the passion of local brewers.

The city now boasts dozens of breweries producing:

• Award-winning IPAs

• Traditional lagers

• Experimental sour beers

• Seasonal releases

• Barrel-aged specialties

Every year, new breweries and new beer styles continue to emerge, making Ottawa one of Canada's most exciting craft beer destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most popular beer in Ottawa?

Kichesippi 1855 and Beyond the Pale Pink Fuzz are among the most widely recognized local beers.

What is the best Ottawa IPA?

Many locals recommend Dominion City's Sunsplit IPA or Two Flags IPA.

Which Ottawa brewery is best?

Dominion City, Beyond the Pale, Kichesippi, Tooth and Nail, and Spark Beer are all highly regarded.

What's the best summer beer in Ottawa?

Pink Fuzz, Spark Pilsner, and Kichesippi 1855 are excellent warm-weather choices.

Where can I buy Ottawa craft beer?

Most local breweries offer retail sales, and many Ottawa grocery stores and LCBO locations carry local craft beer selections.

Is Ottawa a good craft beer city?

Absolutely. Ottawa has developed one of Canada's strongest and most diverse craft beer scenes.

Final Thoughts

Ottawa may be known for Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and world-class festivals, but locals know the city is also home to an outstanding craft beer culture.

Whether you're sipping a Pink Fuzz on a sunny patio, enjoying a Kichesippi 1855 at a backyard BBQ, or exploring new releases from Dominion City and Tooth and Nail, there's never been a better time to be a beer lover in Ottawa.

The best beer in the city ultimately comes down to personal taste, but one thing is certain: Ottawa's brewers are producing some truly exceptional pints worth discovering this summer.

There are few things better than a warm summer evening in Ottawa with a cold drink in hand.

Whether you're craving an ice-cold craft beer, a refreshing glass of wine, a pitcher of sangria, or a creative cocktail, Ottawa's patio scene comes alive during the summer months. From waterfront views and rooftop lounges to lively restaurant terraces and hidden neighbourhood gems, the city has no shortage of great places to enjoy a drink outdoors.

If you're looking to make the most of patio season, here are some of the best spots in Ottawa for summer beers, wine, sangria, and good vibes.

🍷 Little Italy: Ottawa's Patio Capital

When locals think of patios, Preston Street is usually one of the first places that comes to mind.

During the summer, Little Italy transforms into one giant outdoor dining destination.

Favourite Spots

Mati

A stylish patio known for:

• Excellent wine list

• Creative cocktails

• Mediterranean-inspired menu

• Trendy atmosphere

Pub Italia

A Little Italy classic featuring:

• Extensive beer selection

• Large patio

• Relaxed atmosphere

• Great people-watching

La Roma

Perfect for:

• Sangria

• Italian wine

• Casual summer dinners

• Late-night drinks

One of the biggest advantages of Little Italy is the energy. The patios are always buzzing, especially on warm weekends.

🌊 Tavern on the Falls

If you're looking for one of the most unique patio experiences in Ottawa, it's hard to beat Tavern on the Falls.

Located near the Chaudière Falls, you'll enjoy:

• Ottawa River views

• Craft beer

• Local food vendors

• Sunset scenery

• Casual outdoor atmosphere

It's one of the most underrated summer drinking spots in the city.

🍺 Beyond the Pale Brewing Company

Ottawa's craft beer scene continues to grow, and Beyond the Pale remains one of the local favourites.

Why people love it:

• Rotating craft beers

• Spacious patio

• Relaxed environment

• Local brewery experience

A great choice for beer lovers looking to try something beyond the standard pint.

🍹 Tavern at the Gallery

Located beside the National Gallery of Canada, this patio combines drinks with some of Ottawa's most iconic views.

Highlights include:

• Parliament views

• Ottawa River scenery

• Wine and cocktails

• Elevated patio atmosphere

Perfect for date nights or visitors exploring downtown.

🍷 Corner Peach

A favourite among foodies and wine enthusiasts.

Known for:

• Curated wine selection

• Seasonal menu

• Intimate patio

• Excellent service

If you're looking for a more sophisticated wine experience, this is one of Ottawa's best options.

🌇 Copper Spirits & Sights

Located on one of Ottawa's highest rooftop patios, Copper Spirits & Sights offers incredible views of the downtown skyline.

Popular for:

• Cocktails

• Wine

• Date nights

• Sunset drinks

The rooftop setting makes it one of the most sought-after patio experiences in the city.

🍻 Mill Street Brew Pub

Located in the historic ByWard Market area, Mill Street combines craft beer with waterfront charm.

Visitors enjoy:

• Large patio

• Local brews

• River views

• Historic setting

A summer staple for many Ottawa residents.

🌳 Umbrella Bar at Dow's Lake

One of Ottawa's most iconic summer patios.

Reasons to visit:

• Waterfront location

• Sangria and cocktails

• Casual atmosphere

• Paddleboard and kayak views

• Sunset scenery

After a walk around Dow's Lake, it's the perfect place to grab a drink and relax.

🍸 Riviera

For those looking for a more upscale experience, Riviera remains one of Ottawa's premier dining and cocktail destinations.

Expect:

• Craft cocktails

• Premium wines

• Elegant atmosphere

• Downtown location

A great choice for special occasions.

🍹 The Belmont

Located on Bank Street, The Belmont has built a reputation for excellent cocktails and a lively patio atmosphere.

Known for:

• Sangria

• Summer cocktails

• Trendy crowd

• Great brunch options

A favourite among young professionals.

🌞 Local Public Eatery (Lansdowne)

Lansdowne comes alive during the summer, and Local Public Eatery is right in the middle of the action.

Perfect for:

• Watching sports

• Beer with friends

• Large groups

• Casual summer afternoons

The people-watching alone is worth the visit.

🍺 Kichesippi Beer Co.

One of Ottawa's best-known local breweries.

The patio offers:

• Fresh local beer

• Relaxed atmosphere

• Food pairings

• Community feel

A must-visit for craft beer fans.

🍷 Best Areas for Patio Hopping

If you're looking to visit multiple patios in one afternoon or evening, consider:

Little Italy

Arguably Ottawa's best patio district.

ByWard Market

Tons of bars, restaurants, and outdoor seating.

Elgin Street

Great mix of casual and upscale options.

Westboro

Excellent patios with a slightly more relaxed vibe.

Lansdowne

Perfect for sports fans and larger groups.

My Perfect Ottawa Patio Day

If I were planning the ultimate summer patio day, it might look something like this:

Afternoon

☀️ Walk around Dow's Lake

🍹 Sangria at Umbrella Bar

Dinner

🍝 Patio dining in Little Italy

🍷 Bottle of wine at Mati

Evening

🌇 Rooftop cocktails at Copper Spirits & Sights

It's hard to beat that on a warm Ottawa summer evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best patio in Ottawa?

It depends on what you're looking for, but Umbrella Bar, Copper Spirits & Sights, Mati, Tavern on the Falls, and Mill Street are consistently among the most popular.

Where can I get sangria in Ottawa?

Many patios in Little Italy, The Belmont, Umbrella Bar, and several ByWard Market restaurants offer excellent sangria options.

What is the best rooftop patio in Ottawa?

Copper Spirits & Sights is widely considered one of Ottawa's top rooftop patios thanks to its skyline views.

Which neighbourhood has the best patio scene?

Little Italy is arguably Ottawa's patio capital, followed closely by the ByWard Market, Elgin Street, Lansdowne, and Westboro.

Are waterfront patios available in Ottawa?

Yes. Umbrella Bar, Tavern on the Falls, and Mill Street all offer excellent waterfront experiences.

What is the best patio for craft beer?

Beyond the Pale, Kichesippi Beer Co., and Mill Street are all great choices for local craft beer enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

Patio season is one of the best parts of summer in Ottawa, and the city offers something for every type of drinker. Whether you're enjoying sangria by the water at Dow's Lake, sampling craft beer at a local brewery, sharing a bottle of wine in Little Italy, or watching the sunset from a rooftop patio downtown, there's no shortage of incredible places to enjoy the season.

The challenge isn't finding a great patio—it's deciding which one to visit first.

Cheers to another Ottawa summer.