SHIFTER’s Don Ayiti offers his list of the top 5 Afro-Caribbean restaurants in Ottawa.
Despite having quite a diverse population, many people are surprised to hear about Ottawa’s equally diverse food culture. Indeed, the nation’s capital has some of the most astonishing dinery scene in Canada. This scene also includes a variety of Afro-Caribbean restaurants that have provided some of the best culinary experiences in the city for many years. You just need to know where to spot them and that, dear SHIFTERS, is what we are here to help you with. Without further ado, here are SHIFTER’s recommendations for the top 5 Afro-Caribbean restaurants in Ottawa.
5) Soleil Des Iles
Location: 287 Queen Mary St, Ottawa, ON K1K 1X1
A veteran on our list. Many people have considered Soleil Des Iles to be their first encounter with Caribbean cuisine in Ottawa. Known for its typical Haitian cuisine and its casual dining setting, Soleil Des Iles has definitely provided some great vibes to its community. Do yourself a favor check out their signature dish: Their delicious Haitian Griot (fried pork) accompanied with their traditional rice and peas.
Available for pick-up only.
4) Tipikliz
Location: 4025 Innes Rd #10, Orléans, ON K1C 6V3
Yes we know… another Haitian entry on our list. Following their first media appearance on the Power Circle Podcast back in 2019, Tipikliz has slowly become the Haitian-Caribbean hub in Ottawa. They are often present at different community events, providing both their support and their delicious meals. Last but not least, Tipikliz also offers a variety of traditional Haitian desserts and appetizers that will give you a complete and fulfilling Caribbean experience.
Available on Skip the dishes and Uber Eats
3) Run 2 Patty
Location: 1224 Shillington Ave, Ottawa, ON K1Z 7Z4
Run2Patty is a family owned catering company founded by Chef Jacob Henry, a graduate from the Culinary Management program at Algonquin College. Being from a Jamaican background, the catering company specializes in Caribbean cuisine, using authentic spices that take you all the way back to your Granny’s kitchen.
The company first started by making a selection of homemade fresh Jamaican beef patties, along with curry chicken and vegetarian. The company then began their expansion, offering a pop-up, pick-up and delivery style kitchen; selling authentic island favorites like jerk chicken, oxtail, curry chicken, curry goat, roti, rice and peas, fried fish, plantain, and so much more.
Run2Patty is a combination of creativity and passion; and provides a variety of dishes built with love and flavor.
Available on Skip the dishes, Uber Eats and Door Dash
2) Pili Pili Grilled Chicken
Location: 205 Dalhousie St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7C9
Pili Pili is known for its traditional BBQ grilling style. Indeed, their food is grilled the old fashioned way using 100% natural hardwood charcoal which is the secret behind their real grilled wood flavour. On top of providing delicious west African cuisine, Pili Pili also provides a cozy atmosphere for the people who will want to dive into their meal right away.
Available on: pilipilicharcoalgrill.ca, Skip the dishes and Uber Eats
1) YKO Chicken
Location: 375 McArthur Ave., Vanier, ON K1L 6N5
Wrapping up the top of our list, YKO Chicken BBQ has been one of the go to location for African style BBQ Chicken since the year 2000. “This chicken makes you feel at home!” says Houda Benslimane, a satisfied customer. YKO has also attracted a customer base outside of Ottawa, with clients driving all the way from Toronto to experience their take on traditional African BBQ. Their unique use of spices will provide you with some of the most authentic experiences in the Ottawa food scene.
Available for pick up only
What do you think about our list? Have you visited some of these locations? And what are some of the restaurants you think we might have missed? Let us know what are the Afro-Caribbean restaurants you believe we should try next.
