Best Chinese Food in Ottawa
From Ottawa's oldest Chinese restaurant to Chinatown staples and upscale dim sum, here are 5 spots showcasing authentic Cantonese and Szechuan flavours.
Ottawa's Chinese food scene spans from historic family-owned restaurants to modern Chinatown eateries and upscale dim sum houses. Whether you're craving Cantonese classics, spicy Szechuan dishes, or authentic dim sum, these 5 restaurants deliver quality and flavour.
1. Jadeland — The Chinatown Classic
Jadeland is a well-established Chinatown restaurant specializing in both Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine. With generous portions, a diverse menu, and late-night hours, it's become a favorite for locals exploring Somerset Street.
The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone from families to late-night diners. Vegetarian options are available, and the blend of traditional Chinese flavors keeps regulars coming back.
What to order: Ginger Beef, Kung Pao Chicken, Salt & Pepper Squid, Mapo Tofu.
Good to know: Open late (until 11pm weekdays, midnight weekends). Closed Mondays.
Neighbourhood: Chinatown (625 Somerset St W)
2. Royal Treasure (敦煌) — The Refined Choice
Royal Treasure has been serving quality Cantonese and Szechuan dishes since 1993. This fully licensed restaurant brings elegant presentation and refined ambiance to Ottawa's Chinatown.
Known for generous portions at reasonable prices, Royal Treasure combines traditional recipes with attentive service. The restaurant can accommodate larger groups and special occasions.
What to order: Peking Duck, Sweet & Sour Pork, Dan Dan Noodles, General Tao Chicken.
Good to know: Reservations recommended for dinner. Daily 11am-2:30pm, 4pm-9pm.
Neighbourhood: Chinatown (774 Somerset St W)
3. Mekong Restaurant — The Multi-Cuisine Gem
Mekong Restaurant has been serving Ottawa for over 30 years, offering a unique blend of Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai cuisines. The extensive menu features Cantonese classics alongside Vietnamese pho and Thai curries.
With extensive vegetarian options and a high-quality wine list, Mekong provides versatility beyond typical Chinese restaurants. The family-friendly atmosphere welcomes all tastes and dietary preferences.
What to order: Pho Bo, Pad Thai, Lemon Grass Chicken, Szechuan Beef.
Good to know: Multi-cuisine menu. Good for mixed-preference groups.
Neighbourhood: Chinatown (637 Somerset St W)
4. Golden Palace — The Historic Institution
Golden Palace is Ottawa's oldest Chinese restaurant, family-owned for three generations since the 1960s. Over 65 years later, they're still serving consistent, quality Chinese-Canadian comfort food.
The restaurant is famous for their egg rolls, which are so popular they ship them across Ontario. This dedication to a signature dish exemplifies their commitment to tradition and quality.
What to order: Famous Egg Rolls, Chicken Fried Rice, Chop Suey, Sweet & Sour Chicken Balls.
Good to know: Egg rolls available for shipping. Ample free parking.
Neighbourhood: Carlingwood (2195 Carling Ave)
5. Shanghai One Fine Dining — The Dim Sum Specialist
Shanghai One Fine Dining brings upscale Chinese dining to Merivale Road, specializing in authentic Cantonese cuisine and traditional dim sum. The fine dining atmosphere elevates the experience beyond casual takeout.
Every Tuesday features All Day Dim Sum Fest, making it an ideal time to explore their dumpling selections. The refined presentation and quality ingredients justify the higher price point.
What to order: Har Gow, Siu Mai, Char Siu Bao, Peking Duck.
Good to know: All Day Dim Sum Fest on Tuesdays. Mon-Sun 11am-9pm.
Neighbourhood: Nepean (1872 Merivale Rd)
The Quick Comparison
| Restaurant | Style | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jadeland | Cantonese/Szechuan | Late night, variety, vegetarian | $$ |
| Royal Treasure | Refined Cantonese | Elegant dining, groups | $$ |
| Mekong | Multi-Cuisine Fusion | Diverse tastes, versatility | $$ |
| Golden Palace | Traditional Chinese-Canadian | Classic comfort, history | $$ |
| Shanghai One | Upscale Cantonese | Dim sum, fine dining | $$$ |
Chinese Dishes to Know
- Dim Sum — Small plates served steamed or fried. Try Har Gow (shrimp dumplings) and Siu Mai (pork dumplings).
- Peking Duck — Roasted duck served with thin pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce.
- Kung Pao Chicken — Spicy Szechuan stir-fry with peanuts.
- Mapo Tofu — Soft tofu in spicy Szechuan sauce with ground pork.
- Chow Mein — Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and protein.
- Egg Rolls — Deep-fried rolls with vegetable and meat filling.
Tips
- For Chinatown experience — Jadeland, Royal Treasure, or Mekong all within walking distance on Somerset.
- For dim sum — Shanghai One has All Day Dim Sum Fest every Tuesday.
- For history — Golden Palace has been serving Ottawa since the 1960s.
- For late night — Jadeland stays open until midnight on weekends.
- For variety — Mekong offers Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai options.
- For special occasions — Royal Treasure or Shanghai One for refined atmosphere.
🍴Featured Restaurants
Jadeland
Authentic Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine in the heart of Ottawa's Chinatown. Known for quality dishes and vegetarian options.
Royal Treasure
Authentic Cantonese and Szechuan restaurant serving quality dishes at generous portions since 1993 in Ottawa's Chinatown.
Mekong Restaurant
Multi-cuisine Asian restaurant blending Cantonese, Vietnamese, and Thai flavors. Over 30 years of service in Chinatown.
Golden Palace
Ottawa's oldest Chinese restaurant, family-owned for three generations. Famous for their legendary egg rolls since the 1960s.
Shanghai One Fine Dining
Upscale Chinese fine dining specializing in authentic dim sum and Cantonese cuisine. Features All Day Dim Sum Fest on Tuesdays.
Information may change. If you spot anything outdated or incorrect, let us know.