Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport

Ottawa's airport might not be enormous, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to dining. The main terminal — which handles both domestic and international departures — is home to a solid mix of sit-down spots and quick bites. Beckta's airside outpost, Supply and Demand, is a genuine standout: it brings chef Stephen Beckta's farm-to-table philosophy to the gate, with locally sourced dishes and Ontario wines that feel far removed from typical airport fare.

For those in more of a rush, the food court near the domestic gates offers the reliable staples you'd expect — Tim Hortons for that quintessential Canadian coffee fix, a Quiznos, and a few grab-and-go counters stocked with sandwiches and pastries. It's worth seeking out anything flagging local ingredients or Quebec-style preparations, since the region's influence bleeds across the border deliciously. A smoked meat sandwich or a butter tart from one of the bakery counters is a perfectly Ottawa send-off before boarding.

If you have time on your hands before an international flight, settle into one of the lounge-style seating areas with a pint from a Canadian craft beer selection — several bars airside rotate regional taps from breweries like Beau's and Dominion City. The airport has made a conscious effort in recent years to reflect Ottawa's growing food identity, so even a two-hour layover can feel like a genuine taste of the capital rather than a forgettable pit stop.