Welcome to Elmdale Oyster House & Tavern
At Elmdale Oyster House & Tavern, the essence of maritime dining intertwines with a laid-back atmosphere. Established in 1934, this charming eatery has evolved into a go-to spot for seafood lovers in Ottawa. With a menu boasting an array of fresh oysters and exciting appetizers like tuna ceviche and classic beef tartare, every bite is a celebration of flavor. Patrons rave about the attentive service and the vibrant, retro-inspired decor. Perfect for unwinding after a long day, Elmdale offers not just a meal but an experience filled with delightful dishes and a friendly ambiance that keeps guests returning for more.
Elmdale Oyster House & Tavern: Reviews & Ratings
We celebrated an anniversary with dinner at Elmdale tavern. Came on a Thursday night for 2 buck a shuck and knew that there would be live music. We shared 5 different appetizers - a dozen oysters, the tuna ceviche, the beef tartare, mussels, and calamari. I'd say my faves were the oysters, tuna ceviche and mussels!
Relaxed environment with amazing servers. Everyone is super laid back and fun. Owned by Whales Bone so the seafood is amazing. The sauces for the oysters are super flavourful. Sitting at the bar is a great experience and your drink never goes empty! All the cocktails are delicious.
We were there last evening, two of us, always sit at the bar, to enjoy some great banter with the bar staff, oyster martini's, doz oysters, calamari, tavern steak....everything (as always) was excellent, just perfect, service always very attentive no matter who comes by, all the staff acknowledge you, and seem very pleased to have your business. We were not in a rush and were quite content to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, if you are making a night of it, take the time and enjoy!... One of the managers (long blond hair) tends to remember everyone, always greeting, very pleasant, these are people who truly enjoy what they do, working for Marriott for many years, the service industry could use more people like all the team at Whalesbone Elmdale, has become our Fav go to spot!
Always a great night at the Elmdale! Fantastic staff and service, always immaculate vibes. Retro Steak Fridays are a favourite, but their Saturday night DJ dance parties also compete. Snag a reservation as they are often full and finish the night with one of their awesome espresso martinis!
Amazing place for amazing oysters... and many other awesome foods! A beautifully appointed restaurant with quaint and rustic decor reminiscent lof the 50s! Oh if these walls could talk! Established in 1934, fully updated and unique decor. Staff is incredibly attentive, very friendly and intuitive. Our server Jordan was amazing, as was our shucker... If you’re looking for a great evening out with excellent service, and excellent food, this is the place.
Stopped by for a casual drink and dinner with a buddy. Fantastic atmosphere. Service was friendly and prompt. Wasn’t overwhelmed by music or TV noise. I’d recommend it to anyone.
Me and my girlfriend had a date night and absolutely loved the place. We got a mixture of 12 oysters and lowkey wanted more! The food was a bit salty for my taste but still lovely. Service was friendly and helpful. We will be back for the nighttime. Love the music set!
We grabbed dinner here on Thursday – their 2 oyster night and live music! We got 20 fresh ones for the four of us, and they were incredible. Love their source choices for oysters. Our mains (fish & chip, lobster spaghetti, and lobster shirm roll sandwich) were great, too. The staff were super friendly and helpful. I'd totally eat here again if I'm back in Ottawa.
Location
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1084 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2Y5, Canada Hotline: +1 613-728-2848
Welcome to Elmdale Oyster House & Tavern, a cherished gem nestled in the heart of Ottawa at 1084 Wellington St. W. Established in 1934, this vibrant eatery combines rustic charm with a modern twist, offering a unique dining experience that truly sets it apart. With its stunning retro decor reminiscent of the 50s and a laid-back ambiance, Elmdale promises not just a meal, but an unforgettable evening.
Renowned for its seafood, particularly its exceptional oysters, Elmdale makes it easy to indulge in fresh flavors. Guests rave about the popular Two Buck a Shuck Thursdays, where you can enjoy a variety of freshly shucked oysters paired with flavorful sauces that bring the marine bounty to life. As customer Gabrielle Tayag highlights, the oysters, along with delightful appetizers like the tuna ceviche and mussels, are absolute must-tries.
The menu boasts a variety of delectable mains such as the Pan Seared Arctic Char, accompanied by roasted cauliflower and Jem potatoes, and the hearty Tavern Steak, which is sure to impress with its rich flavors and tender cut. Seafood lovers will be tempted by the Lobster Spaghetti, which promises a delightful combination of tomato sofrito and herbs, while the Fish & Chips offer a classic twist with beer-battered haddock and homemade tartar sauce.
Sandwich options such as the flavorsome Wagyu Burger and the exquisite Lobster & Shrimp Roll are perfect for those looking for something a bit more casual yet equally delicious. And don’t forget to save room for dessert; the White Chocolate Cheesecake and Chocolate Mousse Cake are delightful endings to your gastronomic journey.
The atmosphere is made even better by the attentive and friendly staff. Daniel Gordon praises the excellent service and genuine warmth of the team, who make you feel like part of the family from the moment you walk in. Whether you’re enjoying the lively night scene with cocktails at the bar or soaking in the relaxed vibe during a quiet dinner, the service remains impeccable no matter the occasion.
Exciting events such as Retro Steak Fridays and Saturday night DJ dance parties add an extra layer of fun, making it a perfect spot for celebrations, casual outings, or simply unwinding after a long week. You might even have the pleasure of encountering a manager who remembers your name and welcomes you back like an old friend, showcasing the genuine atmosphere that Elmdale fosters.
If you’re in search of vibrant flavors, excellent service, and a memorable dining experience, look no further than Elmdale Oyster House & Tavern. With a menu that delights and a team that truly enjoys what they do, this restaurant is undoubtedly a go-to spot in Ottawa.