La Favorita

We sat outside and it was not the most beautiful BUT there were actual linens on the table and that was very nice. The food was average I would say. The owner is a very good man and has been a restauranteur for decades in Ottawa. We enjoyed visiting with him and for his hospitality. The bruschetta has too many red onions in it, do not recommend. They do not bring bread unless you ask. The veal piccata was delicious, but the veggies and potatoes were not very hot or fresh. The pizza was good, but do not order gluten free pizza it is a terribly hard crust (which the owner deducted from our bill). The veal marsala was not particularly amazing. Overall if it weren't for the kindness of the owner I am not sure I would choose this again. There is a private room option for a group of maybe 20 people which is good to know.

Just wow is all I have to say. I wish I was patient long enough to take some photos of the food, but I couldn't help myself, it looked and smelt sooooooo good!. Honestly, one of the most tastiest Italian restaurants (run by a Middle Eastern) I have ever been to. The food is incredibly tasty, the portions are generous, and the pricing is very reasonable. Gotta try their Calamari, Shrimp, And smelts appetizer for 2. It's $30, but it's freaking outstanding!! The staff is incredibly friendly and work very hard (make sure you tip them well). You have to try their seafood platter, be it the appetizer or the actual platter (the lobster looks amazing). The pizza is good (I won't say great because I've had better in other places) and worth trying. And yes, they have vegetarian and gluten free options. Second visit here, and there's an inconsistency: somehow, they got BETTER than last time i was here! I didn't think it was possible. Definitely coming back, they're always getting my business.