5 dishes you should be paying more for in Ottawa (& the hidden gems you can find them at)

The seared scallops ($13) at Chez Lucien in the Byward Market (137 Murray St).
This place is a staple on my list of Ottawa classics. Known for their burgers and laidback tavern style space, many people totally neglect the seafood options at Chez Lucien (not me though, no way). The perfect comfort food- their scallops are always perfectly seared and smothered in a rich, buttery white wine cream sauce, topped with pieces of bacon and spinach that pair a little too perfectly with their fresh baguette. They’re the kind of app you’ll end up ordering another round of, pre that Frieda & Diego burger.

The green mango salad ($17) at Siam Bistro in Westboro (1268 Wellington St. W).
Truth be told- I’m not much of a salad type, never have been never will be. But on the rare occasion where I do order one, you can bet it’s covered in sweet yet zesty Thai dressing and topped with fresh cashews and cilantro. Nestled in a small strip mall right beside a nail salon, it can be a little easy to miss Siam Bistro when you’re driving down Westboro’s bustling Wellington Street, but trust me- you should keep your eyes peeled for this place. Enjoy this exotic plate with a crisp white wine in their cozy indoor space, and then conveniently head over for your pedi next door when you’re done (location, location).

The dan dan noodles ($14) from LA LA Noodles in the Byward Market.
I am a self-proclaimed pro late night Uber eats order expert. I have to admit I discovered this gem while aimlessly surfing the app one night when heading out for Pho just required too much effort (aka putting pants on). I’ve ordered several different plates from LA LA noodles, but the dan dan dish is where it’s at. Let me put it this way, if this place were in New York, you can bet there would be a line up of people in Lower Manhattan just waiting to get a seat. Their noodles are handmade in house, and you can pick which cut you prefer (personally, I’m a thick wide flat kinda girl), and unlike other take out options- these babies taste just as good in house as they do delivered to your doorstep.

The eggs benny ($19) at Benny’s Bistro at the back of the French Baker in the Byward Market.
So few people know about Benny’s Bistro hidden at the back of the French Baker in the Market. In fact, I’d dare to say that too few people even know what kind of buttery croissants and exceptionally delicious coffee you can get at this storefront bakery 7 mornings a week. Here’s the deal: head to the very back of the French Baker, past the fresh bread and pastries, and voilà- you’re at Benny’s Bistro or as I like to call it: brunch heaven. The eggs benedict at Benny’s are on point. Never heavy or too smothered in hollandaise sauce, ask for some smoked salmon to top off this classic and you’ll notice just how perfectly it pairs with their (too easy to go down) mimosas. And just one more tip- on your way out, pick up some fresh bread for the week and thank me later.

The basically everything ($10+) at Subito Sandwich in Centretown.
Alright I saved this one for last because 1) I’m a sucker for classic Italian, and 2) there is no way I’d be any kind of expert food advice giver if I only picked one item from this incredible spot. If you want the real deal, as in a classic, no fuss, high quality ingredient Italian sandwich house- this is it. Not in the mood for deli? Pick up a warm plate of rigatoni that you just know the owner’s Nonna made in the back that very morning. Finally (because why the f*ck not), ask for a creamy, cheesy filled cannoli that will literally send your decadent Italian lunch over the edge. Now again here comes some of my expert advice: although Subito has set up a bit of outside seating, take all this authentic Italian goodness home and enjoy with an easy to pair Chianti or red of your choice (trust me, I’ve been to Rome and this is how the Romans would want you to do it too).