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Welcome to Giovanni's Restaurant Ottawa

Nestled in the heart of Ottawa on Preston Street, Giovanni's Restaurant offers an elegant Italian dining experience renowned for its exceptional hospitality and attentive service. Guests rave about the stunningly crafted dishes, from the melt-in-your-mouth fish to the comforting pappardelle pasta reminiscent of an Italian nonna's kitchen. Each meal is an indulgence, elevated by a carefully curated wine selection. The meticulously designed ambiance creates an atmosphere of sophistication, perfect for special occasions or personal indulgence. With a commitment to inclusivity, Giovanni's caters to dietary needs while ensuring every guest's experience is unforgettable, making it a true culinary haven.

Giovanni's Restaurant Ottawa: Reviews & Ratings

Leo Berliant
Leo Berliant

If you're looking for the most elegant Italian dining experience in Ottawa, this place is likely at the very top of the list. From the moment you step inside, the exceptional hospitality and attention to detail set the tone for an unforgettable evening. The staff are a true highlight—educated, supportive, and thoroughly professional. Every interaction reflects care and commitment to creating a perfect guest experience. The food is nothing short of outstanding. The bruschetta, topped with fresh basil and a thin, flavorful slice of Parmigiano, is a simple dish elevated to perfection. The fish—delicately prepared and melt-in-your-mouth tender—stands out as a showstopper. And the main course, a pappardelle pasta, tastes as though it came straight from an Italian nonna’s kitchen: comforting, homemade, and deeply satisfying. Yes, it’s a pricier spot, but every dollar feels well spent. The wine list is extensive and curated to satisfy even the most discerning gourmet. This restaurant doesn’t just serve a meal—it delivers a luxurious Italian experience that lingers long after the last bite. Highly recommended for special occasions or simply treating yourself to the best.

Barbara Maynes
Barbara Maynes

On behalf of all who attended my daughters graduation dinner, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for an EXQUISITE evening to the management and staff. The menu was flavorful, well-crafted and delectable. The staff very accommodating, professional and polite. It was a STELLAR evening and an end to a beautiful day. Thank you for making her day special.

Oscar OC
Oscar OC

One word: AMAZING. First, the gentleman in valet parking was very polite (and I was just walking by). Second, the gentleman who received me already knew my name from the reservation and still remembered my name on my way out (which is impressive, considering how busy it was); plus, the owner/manager shook my hand on my way out, quite an elegant gesture. Third, Julia! She was so friendly and attentive; she went above and beyond to make my visit even better. I also enjoyed the brief chat with Jamali, who was kind enough to chat with me in Spanish for a while. The atmosphere is great, and the food and drinks were all very tasty and enjoyable. I went again with my partner and Toni was fantastic! He made us feel like we were long-time friends, and it was absolute fun trying to keep the conversation in Italian while learning from him. Giovanni's is a 10/10. I will keep visiting!

Kiki Maya
Kiki Maya

As a passionate foodie, I can confidently say that this establishment stands unparalleled in all of Ontario and Quebec for its exceptional accommodation and attention to detail. Being allergic to meat and gluten intolerant often makes dining out a daunting task, but the meticulous attention and care provided here transformed my experience into a delightful indulgence. Everything was delicious. From the appetizer to dessert. From the moment we arrived, the service was impeccable. The valet and doorman extended a warm and gracious welcome, setting the tone for the evening. The host greeted us with genuine hospitality, and our servers were not only courteous but also remarkably attentive to our needs. Their professionalism and dedication elevated our dining experience to one of sheer luxury. The ambiance exuded sophistication, and every detail was thoughtfully curated to ensure comfort and elegance. It’s rare to find a place where inclusivity meets opulence so seamlessly. I am eagerly anticipating my next visit, this time with my entire family, to share in this extraordinary culinary haven. Thank you very much!

Patrick
Patrick

Third time going to Giovanni’s but this time for my 5 year anniversary with my girlfriend. The service, food, ambiance, and everything else was outstanding. My father always talked about taking my Mom here in the 80s and 90s and I’m sure he would be proud to see that I am following in his footsteps if he were around to see it. The food was delicious and the service was superb. Our waiter kept checking on us to make sure we were enjoying our meal. To our surprise they brought out our dessert with a sparkler and a plate that read “Happy Anniversary” which really made the night special. Absolutely love this restaurant 10/10.

Cris MacIntosh
Cris MacIntosh

I’ve been to Giovanni’s for dinner, but this was the first event (wedding) I’ve been to there. What a beautiful intimate place to host any type in event, especially something as elegant and memorable as a wedding. Giovanni‘s can easily put on a black tie event. Their servers bring class in charm to absolutely delicious and perfectly presented dishes.

Martine
Martine

Had my work Christmas party, the service and personnel was amazing! The food was excellent. Just too bad we had a very loud group behind us, we could barely hear ourselves talk, we had to talk very very loud, so that wasnt pleasant at all. I will definitely go back with my spouse for a romantic dinner for 2, hopefully in a more quiet atmosphere.

Amanda Mainville
Amanda Mainville

VIP parking is a nice touch! Great atmosphere-only thing, sitting at the partition wall on the banquet is very claustrophobic and no arm room. Good and friendly service Food was good - just good. I was anticipating this blow your mind Italian greatness, but unfortunately not. Would I go back... probably.

Location

Welcome to Giovanni's Restaurant Ottawa, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Ottawa at 362 Preston Street. If you’re in search of an exquisite Italian dining experience that transcends the ordinary, you've arrived at the right place. This elegant establishment is revered for its exceptional hospitality, meticulously crafted dishes, and intimate ambiance that makes every visit feel like a special occasion.

As you step inside, the first thing that captivates you is the atmosphere. The warm and inviting decor sets the stage for a memorable meal. From the friendly valet service to the sincere greetings from the staff, every detail is thoughtfully curated to ensure that guests feel truly welcomed. Many patrons have praised Giovanni's for its unparalleled service, noting how staff members go above and beyond to create a genuine connection with visitors.

Now, let’s talk about the food—where the magic truly happens. Giovanni’s menu is a testament to the artistry of Italian cuisine. The bruschetta, adorned with fresh basil and a delicate slice of Parmigiano, is a perfect starter that elevates simplicity to an art form. Guests rave about the tender, melt-in-your-mouth fish dishes that are the hallmark of the kitchen's skill. The star of the evening, however, might just be the pappardelle pasta. It’s a comforting dish reminiscent of a loving Italian nonna’s creation; homemade and expertly prepared to deliver a deeply satisfying experience.

For those with specific dietary needs, Giovanni’s proves to be an inclusive sanctuary. One guest, who is gluten intolerant and allergic to meat, highlighted how the staff took meticulous care in accommodating all requests, crafting a delightful meal from appetizer to dessert. This level of attentiveness reinforces Giovanni's commitment to elevating the dining experience to one of sheer luxury and comfort.

Moreover, the wine list is extensive and intentionally curated, ensuring that every discerning palate is catered to. Whether celebrating a milestone or indulging in a night out, diners can select the perfect pairing for their meals, further enhancing the overarching experience.

Regular visitors to Giovanni's often express a strong desire to return time and again, drawn not only by the food but by the memories created in the welcoming space. Couples celebrating anniversaries have had their evenings made unforgettable with thoughtful gestures like surprise desserts adorned with heartfelt notes. This level of care is a clear indication that Giovanni's Restaurant Ottawa doesn’t just serve food; it creates treasured moments.

In conclusion, Giovanni's Restaurant Ottawa is a celebration of Italian culinary tradition framed by superior service and a sophisticated ambiance. It is the perfect destination for those celebrating special events or simply wishing to indulge in one of Ottawa’s finest dining experiences. If you haven’t yet had the pleasure, I encourage you to make a reservation and experience the magic for yourself.