Avant-Garde Bar
135 Besserer Street
Small, funky watering hole & music venue featuring Soviet artwork & souvenirs, plus Russian snacks.
If you’re looking for something to do tonight, you’ve come to the right place. Rideau and the ByWard Market is alive with some of Ottawa’s best live music, theatre, dance clubs, pubs, lounges, restaurants, and more. Whatever your vibe, start your Ottawa night here – and stay over!If you’re looking for something to do tonight, you’ve come to the right place. Rideau is alive with some of Ottawa’s best live music, theatre, dance clubs, pubs, lounges, restaurants and more. Whatever your vibe, start your Ottawa night here–and stay over!

Small, funky watering hole & music venue featuring Soviet artwork & souvenirs, plus Russian snacks.
The food and lifestyle of The Big Apple makes an appearance in the ByWard Market at Back to Brooklyn, a sophisticated dining establishment that brings together all the diverse cultures and cuisines of New York onto its menu.
Situé sur l’ancien site du Mercury Lounge, le Berlin Nightclub s’efforce d’offrir aux amateurs de boîtes de nuit une expérience qui reste fidèle aux valeurs de son prédécesseur. Mettant en vedette des DJ en direct, des spectacles itinérants et des expositions mensuelles; il s’agit d’un endroit parfait pour danser toute la nuit!
Having maintained a presence on York Street for over 150 years, “The Laff” is one of the oldest institutions not just in the Market, but all of Ottawa! Catch live DJs, open mic nights and all kinds of live entertainment while dining on pub grub and their local craft beers.
City Gridwrks is the next evolution of the City at Night community; an expansion designed to be more than just a venue. It’s a space where underground music, culture, and community intersect, creating a dynamic environment for connection and expression. Inspired by the raw energy of electronic music, Gridwrks thrives on movement, creativity, and the power of shared experiences. It’s built to be both a playground and a workshop where events take shape, sounds are crafted, and moments are engineered. From intimate nights to high-energy shows, every detail is designed to amplify the music and the people who make it.
Located in the Arts Court building on Daly Avenue, SAW has remained committed to showcasing some of the most boundary-pushing and socially conscious contemporary art across a variety of disciplines for 50 years. This includes hosting live music at Club SAW, a cutting-edge performance venue that was upgraded as part of the City of Ottawa’s Arts Court Redevelopment Project in 2019.
If you’re visiting from out of town, there are plenty of reasons why Andaz Ottawa should be one of your first choices when looking for a place to stay. Not only do they offer a contemporary, high-end living experience with luxury suites, but the hotel is also home to Copper Spirits and Sights, a cocktail bar located on the top floor of the hotel! Enjoy craft spirits and small plates while taking in unparalleled views of Ottawa’s Original Downtown.
A local “dive bar” playing all sorts of punk, metal and indie music for over 25 years. Dominion Tavern is the perfect place for music and beer lovers to spend an evening. Try your hand at a game of pool as well!
El Furniture Warehouse has a menu that’s as delicious as it is affordable and features fantastic live music, courtesy of their DJs. Experience their rooftop patio in the heart of the Market as well as their happy hour!
For midnight revelers looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, Krusch’s intimate cocktail bar features plush furnishings, fine black marble, leather-treated walls and avant-garde art pieces. The ideal spot for anyone looking to impress their date!
Nestled in the heart of the ByWard Market, this New York-styled speakeasy comedy club stands out as one of North America’s finest. With a unique ambiance and top-tier comedic talent, audiences can experience laughter in a setting that captures the essence of humor and entertainment. Welcome to a comedy haven in the heart of Ottawa!
A nightclub that hosts regular dance parties that feature all genres of African and Caribbean music, including hip-hop, afrobeat and dancehall. Also the base of operations for the Cultures Comedy Club, where diverse comedians share their life experiences and audiences can bust a gut laughing!
Poa Tiki Bar is the only bar in the city to offer a tropical Hawaiian atmosphere with pirate-themed décor and a collection of curated tiki mugs that you can drink from. And with live performances, DJs and regular events like Burlesque shows, this is the place for a fun, eclectic and truly tropical evening!
For a unique combination of 1980s gamer culture and a contemporary nightclub setting, visit Room 104 during your next night out with friends! This venue features arcade cabinets and air hockey tables alongside plush banquettes and chandeliers.

Discover why Sky Lounge has assumed the title of Ottawa’s only “convertible” bar – it’s a secret that’s reserved for regular patrons only! This club is a popular choice for new and returning students; their Frosh Week events are the perfect place to hang out with friends and meet new people!

Formerly known as Zaphod’s, the 27 Club has rebranded while maintaining its futuristic, industrial-style décor as well as its abundance of live music acts and its massive dance floor.
The Lookout is the most celebrated LGBTQ+ bar in Ottawa and has been a staple of the city’s nightlife scene for over 25 years – all are welcome! Free drag shows take place on the outdoor patio every evening from Tuesday to Saturday.
Ottawa’s newest nightclub, boasting two stories of opulence, ready to dazzle you with an all-new experience that the city hasn’t seen before.