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Social - Ottawa, Ottawa, ON

Social - Ottawa

4.5
4.5
1179 Reviews
CAN$51 and over
Bistro
Top tags:
Opened in the summer of 1999, SOCIAL was received as the perfect blend of restaurant and bar. It was envisioned as a place where guests could enjoy an evening drink without feeling obligated to order dinner too, but where a sizzling menu meant that food was always an excellent option.

20 years later, SOCIAL continues to deliver. Known in the capital city for its ambiant and modern vibe, fifteen-foot ceilings, its secluded and beautiful courtyard patio, and gorgeous stone walls inside + out-- SOCIAL offers an unparalleled atmosphere for a sit-down dinner or some after-work cocktails. Guests can expect high-quality professional service and a menu to match, proving that SOCIAL is truly a downtown destination that has it all.

Come enjoy the culinary experience given by our Head Chef Peter Schulz and his team.
We do not have any live entertainment at the moment, but we hope to bring this concept back in the future!

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 p.m.
Booked 18 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Private dining

Private dining

Book your next event with us

View details

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Cuisines
    Bistro, French / Canadian
  • Hours of Operation
    Brunch Sat, Sun 11:00 am–3:00 pm Lunch Mon–Fri 11:45 am–3:00 pm Happy Hour Daily 3:30 pm–5:30 pm Dinner Mon–Fri 5:00 pm–10:00 pm Sat, Sun 5:00 pm–11:00 pm
  • Phone number
    (613) 789-7355
  • Website
    http://www.social.ca/
  • Payment Options
    AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress Code
    Business Casual
  • Executive Chef
    Dave Godsoe
  • Private party facilities
    SOCIAL has a variety of private and semi private dining rooms and lounges to suit your event needs. We have dining rooms that are a perfect choice for small weddings, rehearsal dinners, client appreciation dinners, pharmaceutical presentations, special family occasions, networking events and more. These bookings are currently unavailable due to COVID regulations in place.
  • Private party contact
    Brittany Weston: (613) 789-7355
  • Location
    537 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, ON K1N 6Z6
  • Neighbourhood
    ByWard Market
  • Cross Street
    George / York
  • Parking Details
    We are located between George St. and York St. on Sussex Drive. You can find meter parking and 2 parking garages on York Street. Parking is also available across the street at 700 Sussex Drive and around the market area.Courtyard accessible by way of George and York St.
  • Public Transit
    There are public transit stops on Rideau street and at the Rideau Center (which is within walking distance).
  • Entertainment
    Live music can be heard every Wednesday night in the summer on the Courtyard - a mix of jazz, acid jazz and blues. An assortment of DJs are spinning on Friday and Saturday nights all year round.
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wine

What 1,179 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.5
4.5 based on recent ratings
  • 4.5Food
  • 4.4Service
  • 4.6Ambience
  • 4.2Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

  • Ottawa

    Great for outdoor dining

  • Ottawa

    Romantic

  • Ottawa

    Great for outdoor dining

  • Ottawa

    Romantic

1,179 Reviews

  1. MattT

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall4food5service3ambience4
    Lots of great options on the menu, and the food is excellent. The cocktails were also very well prepared. Service was passable, but not worthy of the inflated tip prompts on the card machine.

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  2. PaulL

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall4food1service5ambience5
    The ambience is excellent. For the price, the salmon was below average compared to other similar priced restaurants. No flavour. The roasted chicken was tough and vegetables were soggy. I would recommend this restaurant but not for the food.

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  3. GinQ

    Toronto

    10 reviews

    3.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on September 21, 2023

    overall3food5service1ambience3
    Food was amazing. No complaints there. Server took time from the moment we were seated. Didn’t pay attention to us. He was probably busy so nothing against him.

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  4. MarieD

    Edmonton

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on September 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The meal was excellent. Two of us had a small bowl of soup- fragrant and spicy. The warm beet salad was excellent and my friends enjoyed the steak frites and the duck- superbly cooked and presented.

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  5. Downtowners

    Charleston

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 17, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience4
    We enjoyed the desert with lemon curd the best. The warm beet salad was great as was the rib steak and the scallops. The beef carpaccio was just ok.

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  6. MP2020

    Ottawa

    2 reviews

    2.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 17, 2023

    overall2food1service1ambience1
    Way overpriced for what you get in terms of food and drinks. Music was too loud; I had to practically shout so my dinner companion could hear me. Server was inattentive and basically ignored me while focusing on my friend. My experience last night left a bad taste in my mouth.

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  7. LucieH

    Toronto

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall2food2service4ambience4
    We went for brunch and had the eggs benedictine. They came with overcooked potatoes (only, no fruit, no green), greasy and salty. The eggs themselves were fine, but other cheaper restaurants have a nicer presentation and better potatoes.

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  8. Liam

    1 review

    1.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 12, 2023

    overall1food1service1ambience1
    The worst service I have ever experienced. The server never checked up on us. Our plates from appetizers weren’t picked up during the main course. I had ordered a steak and it was cold. After the first order the server never checked up on us and we didn’t have a chance to order a second drink. The food was below par. Did not see service until the bill. Additionally we had called ahead of time for a special birthday request and were assured over the phone they would make the evening special, not only did they disregard the request, we didn’t even get normal service all night. It was a Tuesday night. Genuinely the worst service I’ve ever experienced especially on a special day. Definitely not worth the price. Will never be going back. Initially we had read some questionable reviews but wanted to give it a shot because the menu looked appetizing however it was one of our biggest regrets.

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  9. Eric

    Toronto

    6 reviews

    4.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on September 12, 2023

    overall4food5service4ambience4
    We were propmtly seated. Our server was pleasant but made a mistake with our appetizer order (Oysters instead of squid). Our mains were well prepared and delicious. I mentioned that it was my wife's birthday but they did nothing special.

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  10. ErinP

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great time. Great food. Best squid I've had. Scallops were also incredible.

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  11. Groupofthree

    Toronto

    5 reviews

    4.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall4food4service3ambience3
    We waited a good while before having any service. When we asked the man on the door if we could order drinks he said our server would come soon. Not the right answer! He should have taken our drinks order on the spot. Service needs polishing.

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  12. SusanL

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Fantastic food and service for our romantic anniversary meal. Our server was a delight- knowledgeable, right level of attentive. We decided to have a meal of apps (plus dessert, of course). She guided us away from ordering too much and helped with wine pairings. We had the squid, scallops, and steak tartar - along with a small side if fresh bread which was important for wiping the plates clean. The food was beautifully presented with a perfect combination of colours and textures. It’s been a long time since we’ve been down to the Market. We’ll be back to Social.

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  13. ReginaM

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent food, great service. Very nice attentive waiter Ben.

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  14. RichardB

    Greater Boston

    5 reviews

    4.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on September 8, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    It was a warm day so we were able to eat in the charming courtyard. The greeting on our arrival and the service throughout the lunch were friendly, professional and helpful. All the food - my avocado and chicken sandwich and my companions' beet and Cobb salads - were well prepared and attractively presented. The young woman who served our table was particularly helpful in wine and food selection and very engaging in conversation.

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  15. ScottA

    San Francisco

    14 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on September 7, 2023

    overall4food5service4ambience5
    Food was outstanding, patio was really nice - service was slower than it should have been - server disappeared inside and wasn't attentive - likely could have sold more wine if he had paying attention.

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  16. HomeinNJ

    New York Area

    43 reviews

    5.0

    43 reviews

    Dined on September 6, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We visited from out of town and came here due to good reviews and proximity to our hotel. We lucked out that Wednesdays had live entertainment so there was a very good singer/keyboardist there. Service was exemplary. There was a nice selection of foods and everything we ordered was excellent - beet salad, spiced calamari, lamb shank, duck confit, and a pasta special. Would definitely recommend!

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  17. Gordon

    Los Angeles

    2 reviews

    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 5, 2023

    overall3food2service4ambience4
    The service was good. But the Cod was not fresh and overcooked and dry. The dish also lacked flair and flavour. I've been to Social before and enjoyed the meals there, however, this evening food was below standard.

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  18. JohnV

    Ottawa

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 5, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience3
    Good food and professional staff. It was a quiet night so there was not much of a buzz.

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  19. DMCZ

    Montreal

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 3, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We chose the Social as a last minute decision and we had a great time! The courtyard was awesome!

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  20. LucieM

    Toronto

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 1, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    Beautifully presented, fresh salads, great for a late summer lunch on the patio.

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  21. Mary

    Ottawa

    7 reviews

    4.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on August 31, 2023

    overall4food5service4ambience5
    Excellent meal at Social. Both the duck and salmon entrees were delicious. Friendly service. Good wine list.

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  22. DeliciousAdventure

    Ottawa

    3 reviews

    3.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on August 27, 2023

    overall3food4service3ambience5
    Atmosphere was really nice especially for a date night. BUT we were celebrating a birthday and they did not do anything special. The food also took a long time to come.

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  23. SelligM

    San Francisco

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 26, 2023

    overall4food5service3ambience4
    Excellent food, choice of wine. Service was a bit slow, but aceptable

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  24. MelannieS

    Toronto

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food was amazing and our waiter was outstanding! I wish I remembered his name. He was very friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. He was super helpful finding something that accommodated my many food intolerances and allergies. I would definitely go back.

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  25. Happycentretownresident

    Toronto

    3 reviews

    3.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on August 24, 2023

    overall3food1service4ambience4
    Nice location and ambiance! Service was very good and efficient. Food was average - nothing special - quite pricey for average taste.

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  26. KevinR

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Duck Confit and Moroccan Lamb were excellent. Staff was very friendly and accommodated us in moving from inside to the patio for desert and live jazz entertainment.

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  27. OpenTable Diner

    Montreal

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on August 19, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    Excellent food. Server was pleasant however quite a long wait between servings.

    Is this helpful?

  28. AnonymousHappyReviewer22

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Staff was amazing, menu was interesting and everything was delicious. The decor and ambiance was really beautiful, washrooms were clean. Our group tried several cocktails and mocktails, and while the selection was great, our only comment was that the alcohol flavours weren’t noticeable or there was too much crushed ice in the larger drinks. There were several parties and a wedding happening so it was lively, but the restaurant layout offered many options for seating depending whether you wanted to be in a quiet corner or close to the action. We were hoping to try the patio since it looked really gorgeous but the weather didn’t permit. Overall our service was perfect and the food amazing! We will be back for sure.

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  29. ChristianeM

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 16, 2023

    overall2food3service1ambience4
    Our server left waiting multiple time. Disappointing for the price.

    Is this helpful?

  30. DavidS

    Toronto

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on August 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Service and Ambiance was excellent. Beautiful night in Ottawa and at the Social!

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  31. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 12, 2023

    overall3food2service4ambience4
    Chicken was completely uncooked. Returned it and they came to say that the chef says “it was simply a vein running through the chicken”. The “vein” was at least 2” thick and throughout entire chicken breast. They did remove from bill and manager came over to apologize and offered a gift card to encourage us to come back. Service was good. Ambience also nice but very dark inside restaurant.

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  32. Annanne

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 11, 2023

    overall3food2service3ambience4
    Bread basket was like week old stale baguette tossed in the oven to warm it…making it even harder. Mains were ok but definitely won’t be going back

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  33. Susan5

    Toronto

    20 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    20 reviews

    Dined on August 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Another great dinner at Social! Wonderful! Thank you!

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  34. ExurbanMermaid

    New York Area

    12 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    12 reviews

    Dined on August 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This is such a fun place with a cool but friendly neighborhood vibe … interesting, delicious food — the meatballs, Korean hot chicken, and pasta were all fab … really thoughtful and kind service … overall excellent. Just wish we lived closer!!

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  35. paulm

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 7, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent food and drinks great atmosphere a very nice evening

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  36. DianH

    Toronto

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on August 6, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    The food was incredible, props to the chef. The staff were such nice people. The patio was beautiful it had a European feeling to it. We had an outstanding time at The Social. Our first experience was incredible thanks to our waitress Aly ( I might have not spelt that right) so we went back again the second time was not as great but still pretty impressive. I would definitely recommend.

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  37. BetsyM

    Calgary

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on August 6, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food and ambiance was amazing. The food and location is worth every penny.

    Is this helpful?

  38. JeffC

    Toronto

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 5, 2023

    overall4food4service3ambience4
    Dinner was quick and very tasty but the portions were on the small side. You expect higher end restaurants to not have huge portions but when my plate came with all of 6 gnocchi and like 2 tablespoons of the red cabbage it was a little disappointing.

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  39. Denis

    San Diego

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on August 3, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Outstanding atmosphere! Outstanding food! INCREDIBLY outstanding service/server! THANK YOU! Coming back August 17th ! Can't wait !

    1 person found this helpful

  40. OpenTable Diner

    Toronto

    14 reviews

    5.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on August 3, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Amazing atmosphere, great service, great food. Staff was very friendly. Awesome mocktail options. If you are in downtown Ottawa, definitely check it out.

    Is this helpful?

Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitising

    • Surfaces sanitised between seatings
    • Digital, disposable or sanitised menu provided
    • Sealed or wrapped utensils used
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitiser or wipes provided for customers
    • Contactless payment available

  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace

FAQs

Social - Ottawa offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (613) 789-7355.

Social - Ottawa is rated 4.5 stars by 1179 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 p.m.
Booked 18 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for Social - Ottawa

537 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, ON K1N 6Z6

Additional information

  • Cross Street
    George / York
  • Neighbourhood
    ByWard Market
  • Hours of Operation
    Brunch Sat, Sun 11:00 am–3:00 pm Lunch Mon–Fri 11:45 am–3:00 pm Happy Hour Daily 3:30 pm–5:30 pm Dinner Mon–Fri 5:00 pm–10:00 pm Sat, Sun 5:00 pm–11:00 pm
  • Cuisines
    Bistro, French / Canadian
  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Dress Code
    Business Casual
  • Parking Details
    We are located between George St. and York St. on Sussex Drive. You can find meter parking and 2 parking garages on York Street. Parking is also available across the street at 700 Sussex Drive and around the market area.Courtyard accessible by way of George and York St.
  • Public Transit
    There are public transit stops on Rideau street and at the Rideau Center (which is within walking distance).
  • Payment Options
    AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive Chef
    Dave Godsoe
  • Entertainment
    Live music can be heard every Wednesday night in the summer on the Courtyard - a mix of jazz, acid jazz and blues. An assortment of DJs are spinning on Friday and Saturday nights all year round.
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wine
  • Website
    http://www.social.ca/
  • Phone number
    (613) 789-7355
  • Private party facilities
    SOCIAL has a variety of private and semi private dining rooms and lounges to suit your event needs. We have dining rooms that are a perfect choice for small weddings, rehearsal dinners, client appreciation dinners, pharmaceutical presentations, special family occasions, networking events and more. These bookings are currently unavailable due to COVID regulations in place.
  • Private party contact
    Brittany Weston: (613) 789-7355
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