La Taverna

Wow, what an amazing experience. Both the food and service were top notch. Almost as soon as we sat down the chef approached us with a complementary drink which he wanted us to try. The drink was a creation of his own and he was excited to share. It was absolutely delicious and and completely unique. The food was also some of the best I've had in Ottawa and reasonably priced. Strongly recommend!!!!!

We were a table of six looking for some beverages and snacks. We ordered a Chef Aneesh Platter and to our surprise, he came out to see what drinks we were having to design a platter to match!! And when the platter came out, he came back out to explain how each item paired with our food and included a special palette cleanser shot. He was very kind to take the time to explain everything and his approach for the restaurant. Thanks so much for the wonderful experience. We'll definitely be back.

This spot has such amazing atmosphere. We met the owner who was so welcoming and her passion for this place really shows in the ambiance, food and drinks. Their signature drink "Stolen Death" is a must try - it is an experience all on it's own Food: 5/5

Stumbled onto this new great little place during their “soft opening with family and friends”….despite being neither, we were welcomed in for a drink anyways! Demonstrates the pleasant atmosphere that the owner Stephanie and all her staff radiate! Smaller sized portions with lower prices to match mean you’ll not be overstuffed and ready for a nap instead of enjoying all that Preston St has to offer! Try the delicious appetizers like the Caesar with a soft boiled egg or the meatballs with mushroom sauce!

We unexpectedly came across La Taverna and found it okay. Not amazing but full of potential! The menu itself is super small, and hard to read, it's not designed well and that's never a good sign, even for a small signature place as this one. It just opened in June, and we visited in early September. I feel like this is relevant because the restaurant is just in it's startup phase so while I am being harsh, it's purely constructive. So first, the good things: 1 The design and mix of seating options is excellent for the space. Apart from the steps at the entrance, the restaurant is super accessible and would offer your choice of seats. Bench, low chair, high chair and patio! Super dope. 2 Service was lovely. It was so swift and our server was very kind. She did also explain the menu to us, and the portion sizes. The restaurants selling point of modest food portions and low prices was spot on, and it was just. There are several restaurants in the area that charge double for the same small portions so it's nice to see a fair price reflecting the food you get! Now for the improvements: 1 The fried chicken jalapeño waffle sandwich and fries. Great price, but not so tasty. The sandwich was cold and unfortunately not so pleasant. Having some syrup available would have helped, but so would some spice. The chicken breast was really nice but not seasoned well enough. The waffle was not spicy considering the jalapeño either. The fries were crispy, but way too bloody salty. I hope this isn't an attempt at making people thirsty and getting them to buy extra drinks, which is a sly tactic that a nice place as this one shouldn't need to implement. The fries were served with a runny creme sauce of some kind, which was nice, but I'd imagine someone else would prefer ketchup or mayo. Not offered but I'd hope it is available for those who want. 2 Redesigning your menu! You can maintain the minimalism and make it clearer. As of now it's just all smudged together and it's not easy to read. People who are hungry don't want to become cryptographers just to see what's being offered and at what price and with which sides etc. As for the food options, very few kosher options which is dissapointing. How about a bit more variety? Veg/Vegan, Kosher etc... Okay so overall the restaurant is nice but needs to improve the flavour of some of its food and it really needs to redesign it's menu. This place is bursting with potential, it just needs to make a few alterations here and there.

Delightful service, delicious food. COVID protocols followed. We had a two person charcuterie and some bacon fries with drinks, of course, and loved all of it. Fresh, thoughtful, small & light portions for a perfect price. Highly recommended, will definitely be going back and trying the fried chicken & jalapeno waffle sandwich. Update: Went back again this weekend and the service continued to be top notch. Really felt like a fine dining experience at an extremely reasonable price. Had the charcuterie again, which has been re-vamped with some incredibly vibrant and fresh ingredients, made in house. The Midnight Espresso cocktail was absolutely delicious as well. La Taverna never disappoints, and we'll surely be back again and again!

This place is fantastic! Went with some friends for my birthday last week, and the staff were super friendly and welcoming. They have a cozy, inviting atmosphere, and we enjoyed their taste in 80's music. The cocktails were delicious, as was the food. The squash soup was very tasty, and had perfect texture. I highly recommend trying 'The Bear' while it's still on their menu!

The staff was so warm and bubbly. Food was interesting~. I would recommend for a nice date, you can even request songs at times

Came across this place for a quick bite to eat and was so amazed by the friendly service and food/drinks! I got the Caesar salad with pork belly and their specialty iced coffee super creamy, smooth and not too sweet. What I got for lunch was super delicious and the prices were affordable for the amount of food you get! I definitely will come back again with my friends/family! :D

A delicious surprise ! Very welcoming and attentive staff, head chef is very talented and passionate. 100% recommend- we will be back ! Atmosphere and location is also perfect !