Ottawa | A French Bistro Hidden Among Trees and Rivers

Tucked away by the woods in Gatineau, this charming little French restaurant feels like a well-kept secret—and I can’t believe I only discovered it now 🌳! Quiet and cozy, the dining room looks out onto lush greenery and the gentle sound of flowing water, making every moment here incredibly soothing and relaxing 🛶. 🥖 Salmon Tartare with Avocado Cream This starter is the perfect way to begin your meal—light, fresh, and totally refreshing! The salmon is incredibly tender and delicate, with a clean, briny flavor that shines through 🐟. It’s paired with a smooth, creamy avocado sauce that adds a rich, buttery touch, while crisp cucumber rolls bring a nice crunch. Served with warm, toasted bread to scoop up every last bit, it’s a harmonious mix of textures and tastes that wakes up your palate beautifully 🍞! 🧄 Grilled Escargots with Cheese Cheese lovers, this one’s a must-order 🧀! The escargots are baked to perfection with melted cheese, filling the air with a mouthwatering, savory aroma as soon as they hit the table. Each bite is rich, creamy, and packed with garlicky, cheesy goodness—indulgent without being overwhelming. Pair it with a slice of crusty French bread to soak up all that delicious sauce, and you’ve got a classic French appetizer done to perfection 🥖! 🍖 Lamb Shank Braised in Red Wine If you’re craving comfort food with a French twist, this dish is pure warmth in a bowl 🐑. The lamb shank is slow-braised until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender, infused with deep, robust flavors from the red wine, herbs, and spices. Every forkful is juicy and packed with savory depth, complemented by tender baby potatoes and caramelized carrots that soak up the rich sauce. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate, full of that nostalgic, wintery French charm ❄️! 🍝 Creamy Seafood Pasta This pasta dish is a celebration of fresh seafood and rich, velvety sauce 🍤. The cream base is luxuriously smooth, coating every strand of pasta in a flavorful blanket, while plump shrimp and tender scallops add a sweet, briny kick. Each bite is a burst of happiness—creamy, savory, and full of ocean-fresh goodness. It’s the kind of dish that makes you slow down and savor every mouthful, feeling totally satisfied by the end 🍴! With its serene setting, attentive service, and dishes that balance classic French flavors with fresh, quality ingredients, this hidden gem is a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle. Whether you’re here for a leisurely lunch, a romantic dinner, or a cozy brunch, it’s sure to leave you with a full heart and a happy palate 💕. #FrenchCuisine #OttawaFood #GatineauFood #FrenchBrunch #HiddenGemRestaurant