The Moonroom

Imagine a place where, behind the unassuming facade of an ordinary house, lies a world bathed in the soft glow of the "moon." Ottawa hides a true gem in its Little Italy neighborhood — The Moonroom. This cozy cocktail bar and lounge is rightfully considered one of the most atmospheric venues Canada is proud of.

The bar's interior is striking in its creativity: the ceilings are adorned with white drapery, and purple lighting skillfully mimics a full moon behind the clouds. Inside, you'll find narrow corridors, flickering candles, and relaxed music, creating the perfect setting for a romantic date or a quiet evening with friends. The Moonroom is known for its Mediterranean menu, innovative drinks, and a friendly, inclusive approach to every guest.

The venue gained particular popularity for its craft cocktails and complimentary truffle popcorn, which is served to all visitors. In the summer, a charming back patio opens up, where fresh ingredients for the kitchen and bar are grown, adding a touch of homey comfort and freshness to your urban escape.

If you would like to book a table or find out more about special events, you can use the following contact details:

The main reason to visit The Moonroom is the art of mixology. Be sure to chat with the bartenders: they are true masters of their craft and often create drinks based on your personal preferences. Try signature cocktails like Bitter Maitai or The Burning Garden, which look like true works of art.

The culinary side is equally interesting. We recommend ordering tapas and Mediterranean snacks, which perfectly complement the drinks. The crispy truffle popcorn is a great way to start the evening. If you're visiting the city during the warmer months, try to snag a table on the summer patio — it's a hidden oasis where you can enjoy fresh air and greenery.

The bar often hosts themed nights or live music, so it’s worth checking the schedule in advance. This place is ideal for those who want to slow down after a busy day of sightseeing and spend time in a setting where every detail of the interior is designed for your comfort.

Located at 442 Preston St, the bar is in the heart of the vibrant Little Italy district. Getting here from the city center is easy: a taxi or Uber ride takes only about 10 minutes. For those who prefer public transport, OC Transpo routes serving the Little Italy area are available.

If you are already in the neighborhood, The Moonroom is easy to find while on a walk. From the outside, the building resembles an ordinary residential house with a small porch, which gives the establishment a special "secret spot" charm. In the summer, a stroll down Preston Street is a pleasure in itself, thanks to the many open terraces and lively atmosphere.

For drivers, street parking is available, though it’s worth noting that finding a free spot in the evenings and on weekends can be challenging. If you plan to visit during peak hours, it is best to consider alternative transportation.

The story of this establishment began over a decade ago. At that time, Ottawa was just beginning to discover craft cocktail culture, and The Moonroom became one of the pioneers of this movement. Since its opening, the bar has focused on intimacy and high-quality mixology, which allowed it to quickly win the hearts of locals.

A milestone in the bar's history came in 2018, when it was officially recognized as one of the best bars in Canada. This recognition confirmed the venue's status as a key spot on the country's gastronomic map and attracted even more attention from tourists seeking authentic local experiences.

Over the years, the bar's concept has remained virtually unchanged, staying true to Mediterranean motifs in its menu and its mysterious atmosphere. Interestingly, the establishment is female-owned, and they have created a safe and inclusive space here, where every guest feels right at home.

To fully soak in the atmosphere and enjoy a couple of signature cocktails, we recommend planning for a visit of 1.5 to 3 hours. This is enough time to leisurely explore the cocktail menu and try several Mediterranean appetizers.

If you are short on time and just stopping by for one drink before dinner, one hour will be quite enough. However, remember that the magic of this place is revealed through taking it slow and enjoying the soft candlelight, which invites long conversations.

The Moonroom bar is perfect for evening and late-night relaxation. The venue is open daily, offering its guests a cozy atmosphere until late.

Opening Hours:
Monday — Sunday: 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM.

The area around Little Italy is rich with interesting locations. A walk after visiting the cocktail bar will allow you to get to know the capital better and enjoy its architecture and parks.