Welcome to Play Food & Wine
Play Food & Wine, nestled in the heart of Ottawa, offers an exceptional dining experience that focuses on seasonal ingredients and innovative flavor combinations. Known for its eclectic small plates, the menu invites guests to explore a variety of culinary delights, from the comforting acorn squash soup to exquisite options like tandoori halloumi and gnocchi. With a carefully curated wine selection, including the rare orange wine, the restaurant enhances every meal with thoughtful pairings. The welcoming atmosphere combined with attentive service makes it a perfect spot for both romantic dinners and casual gatherings. Play Food & Wine truly excels in delivering delightful gastronomic experiences.
Play Food & Wine: Reviews & Ratings
As usual, the food and service is always top notch! It had been a long time since our last visit and it did not disappoint. The small plates menu allows you to share with others while being able to taste their various offerings.
Everything was perfect, exactly what I needed - when I wanted to be treated and served with kidness and hospitality for a meal. They have a great wine selection including orange wine, which is uncommon to have, and pairing recommendations from staff and on the menu. The food was creative and well thought out, but still “safe” and delicious. I like the veal carpaccio and the dessert, apple & squash. Sometimes good food with nicely paired wine and hospitality is what we need. I will definitely come back. :)
One of the best restaurants in Ottawa. Ecclectic menu of deliciousness. Service was first rate. Wow. Will definitely be back. Highly recommend for a romantic dinner date.
Went for Valentine's day and came back this week. Always lovely service. Interesting unique high-end craft cocktails. Love the variation of food depending on seasonality. Nice to get an "appetizer" from top half of menu and a "main" from bottom half - the ramp gnocchi is unreal. Kitchen even put on extra blue cheese for me like I asked which was very sweet. Incredible value of two generous high-quality plates for 49 compared to other fine dining places. Atmosphere nice but not pretentious.
We went for their Industry Sundays menu and it was absolutely incredible. Every dish was amazing but our favourites were the sourdough bread which we shared as a starter and the Falafel. Great service and atmosphere. We are already looking forward to coming back.
An unforgettable dining experience at Play Food and Wine! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warmth and hospitality. The savoury dishes were beyond exceptional, each bursting with flavor and expertly cooked. The staff's attention to detail and genuine care for our enjoyment made the evening truly special. Five stars and highly recommend this spot!!
Great atmosphere and amazing dishes to pick from. Service was fast and everyone working there was extremely welcoming and friendly. A great spot for a date night in downtown Ottawa.
Really enjoyed our dining experience. Service was very good, flavors were outstanding and interesting in several of the dishes. It's more of a fine dining type of vibe for the presentation of the food that is definitely fun to try once in a while. Nice wine selection and desert as well. Thanks!
Location
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1 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S7, Canada Hotline: +1 613-667-9207
If you’re in Ottawa and looking for a culinary adventure, Play Food & Wine should be at the top of your list. Nestled at 1 York St, this dining destination offers a delightful approach to modern gastronomy while emphasizing the joys of sharing and seasonality in its menu.
Play Food & Wine prides itself on creative small plates that invite guests to experience a world of flavors. The combination of artful presentation and bold taste reflects the restaurant's commitment to quality. During my visit, I was particularly drawn to the brûléed asparagus clam chowder paired with a delicate beer foam. This dish was a unique start that set the tone for an exciting meal.
- Savor the Lamb Kielbasa Gnocchi: Comforting yet refined, the gnocchi served with mushroom, sundried tomato, ramp pesto, and sambal egg yolk was a standout. Each bite delivered layers of flavor that danced on the palate.
- Indulge in Smoked Pork Ribs: The pork ribs, served with a crispy potato salad and haskap, were tender and rich, showcasing the restaurant’s mastery of smoke and texture.
- Experience Scallop Crudo: With flavors of yuzu and hints of fennel and strawberry, the crudo was both refreshing and sophisticated, making it a perfect dish for a warm evening.
Even in extras, Play Food & Wine doesn’t skimp on quality. The acorn squash soup and crispy smelts were both lovely complements to the main offerings, proving that every dish has been thoughtfully crafted.
Desserts at Play Food & Wine were equally noteworthy. The smoked maple and cedar dessert was a highlight of my meal, with its layered textures and deep, rich flavors that felt both comforting and innovative.
The restaurant boasts a well-curated wine list that includes intriguing options like orange wine, highlighted in guest reviews for its uniqueness and pairing potential. The knowledgeable staff enhances this experience with thoughtful recommendations, ensuring every guest finds the perfect accompaniment to their meal.
Guests have lauded the atmosphere as welcoming and unpretentious, making it an excellent spot for both casual dining and special occasions. With positive feedback highlighting the attentive service and the restaurant's ethos of creating a hospitable environment, it is clear that Play Food & Wine is committed not just to food, but to creating memorable dining experiences.
In conclusion, Play Food & Wine shines as a beacon of culinary excellence in Ottawa's vibrant restaurant scene. With its eclectic menu, unique charm, and the dedication to guest satisfaction, it's a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the art of fine dining.