Timeline
11:15
Grab a sandwich at Di Rienzo before the weekday rush gets too long. The line stretches outside during peak hours, so arriving at noon ensures you get your $5 deli sandwich without waiting in the sun.
12:15
Walk over to Pub Italia for a beer. It is known for its "Beer Bible" with hundreds of bottled beers, especially Belgian varieties. The food is decent, but the real draw is the selection and the relaxed pub atmosphere in Little Italy.
12:45
Stroll to Commissioners Park adjacent to Dows Lake. If you visit in May, the Festival of Tulips is in full swing. In summer, enjoy the flower beds arranged in colorful patterns. The area is peaceful and offers a nice view of the lake and surrounding greenery.
Local tip
Di Rienzo is a local secret for the best deli sandwiches in the city. On weekdays, the line can be long, so timing your visit early in the lunch hour is key. Pub Italia is best for beer enthusiasts rather than those seeking gourmet pizza.
Check before you go
- Di Rienzo: Mo-Fr 07:30-21:00; Sa,Su 08:00-19:00
- Pub Italia: Mo 16:00-01:00; Th-Sa 11:00-01:00; Su 12:00-24:00
Worth knowing
- Pub Italia is open at 12:15 only on Th, Fr, Sa, Su
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Ottawa (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).