Ottawa's Kebab Game Just Leveled Up: Tava Turkish Cuisine Reigns Supre

Who knew Ottawa's best-kept kebab secret was hiding in Kanata? Tava Turkish Cuisine has quietly become the city's most talked-about Turkish spot – so popular that during my visit, three tables were conversing in Mandarin, prompting the owner to effortlessly switch languages with a cheerful "Let's speak Chinese!" 😆 🍗 The Main Event: Mixed Kebab Platter (Photo 1) The undisputed star arrives sizzling on a cast iron plate: Beef kebab (that sausage-looking beauty front and center) - Mind-blowingly tender thanks to the owner's confession: he sneaks 10% lamb into the blend for extra juiciness Chicken kebab - Juicy beyond belief with an exotic spice blend (uncommon in Chinese cuisine) that delivers intriguing flavor layers 🍮 Sweet Finale: Hazelnut Rice Pudding (Photo 2) A dessert revelation: Not-too-sweet creamy rice pudding Toasted hazelnuts adding perfect crunch That golden milk skin on top? Absolute perfection 🥤 Nostalgic Sip: Fruity Sparkling Drink (Photo 3) Like Turkish Ramune! The owner's childhood favorite comes in: Mixed fruit flavor (his personal recommendation) Orange version (untested but tempting) 🌶️ Fire Starter: House-Made Chili Sauces (Photo 4) From left: Chopped chili - Fresh, vibrant heat Chili oil - Smoky depth that elevates everything 📖 The Origin Story Four years ago, this was a tiny takeout spot (1/5 the current size) serving legendary boat-shaped pizzas. The owner's journey: Backyard BBQ beginnings Commercial kitchen hustle Current expanded restaurant 💫 The Experience Sitting at the bar felt like dining at a friend's home: Owner popping by for warm conversation Cozy yet stylish decor (loved the stools so much I asked for the link! 😂) Menu hints at Chinese-Turkish fusions (lamb soup? Yes please!) 🏆 The Verdict Is this Ottawa's top 3 restaurant? Maybe not. Is this Ottawa's #1 kebab? ABSOLUTELY. 📍 Tava Turkish Cuisine 7B Kakulu Rd, Kanata 📆 Open daily for lunch & dinner #OttawaEats #TurkishFood #KebabKing #FoodieFinds #KanataEats #OttawaFoodie #HiddenGems #MustTryOttawa #ComfortFood #GlobalCuisine