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Dining, Culture & Everyday Living
Ottawa’s Little Italy is more than a dining destination — it’s an iconic Ottawa neighbourhood where culture and community come together. Centered on Preston Street, also known as Corso Italia, the area is lined with trattorias, gelato shops, and family-owned cafés that give it an unmistakable charm.
The neighbourhood’s culinary reputation is well-earned. From authentic Italian staples to contemporary Canadian menus, Little Italy offers a wide variety of restaurants that cater to every taste. Highlights include:
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Di Rienzo’s, where legendary deli sandwiches and classic cannoli have been drawing locals for decades.
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Smash Daddy, a burger spot that has quickly gained a following for its bold flavours.
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The Moonroom, an intimate cocktail bar known for its creative drinks and warm atmosphere.
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Pizza favourites such as Retro Gusto, Giovanni’s, and Del Piacere, each with their own loyal following.
But the experience extends well beyond the food. Each June, Italian Week Ottawa brings Preston Street to life with parades, performances, and open-air dining, offering a celebration of heritage and modern community spirit. Throughout the year, murals, festivals, and neighbourhood events highlight the area’s ongoing evolution while maintaining strong cultural roots.
Dont just take my word for it; Reddit users often describe the area as “walkable” and “full of energy,” reflecting its appeal to both longtime residents and newcomers. The combination of dining, culture, and a vibrant streetscape creates an environment that feels welcoming while still deeply connected to its history
Growth & Development in Little Italy, Ottawa
Little Italy continues to evolve as one of Ottawa’s most dynamic and connected neighbourhoods. Anchored by the Corso Italia O-Train station, the area is becoming a more transit-friendly destination rooted in walkability and accessibility.
The skyline has also changed, with thoughtful high-rise developments adding vertical diversity to this historic district. This blend of modern design and neighbourhood heritage is shaping a vibrant urban future.
City policy supports this transition: municipal planning guides encourage new mixed-use, transit-adjacent development to foster a walkable, well-integrated area giving precedence to community needs.
On the market front, housing in Little Italy reflects broader shifts in Ottawa: steadily rising demand across property types, particularly townhouses and well-located condominiums. These options are especially appealing to those seeking character-rich homes with an urban edge, whether for long-term residence or polite investment opportunities.
Homes And Heritage
Little Italy isn’t just about dining and culture: it’s also one of Ottawa’s most distinctive places to call home. The neighbourhood has over 11,000 residents across 1.7 square kilometres, creating a lively but close-knit community just a few minutes from downtown.
Housing here reflects both history and evolution. Many homes were built between 1900 and 1960, giving the area its heritage feel, while new townhouses and condos add modern options. Detached homes make just under 50% of the stock, with row and semi-detached properties making up the balance. Recent sales show the market ranging from around $275,000 for smaller condos up to $1.2 million for larger homes, offering a wide spectrum for buyers.
Demand has remained steady, with Ottawa’s overall average home price sitting near $695,000 in mid-2025, up more than 2% year-over-year. In Little Italy specifically, townhouses and well-located condos are especially popular, appealing to professionals and families who want character-rich homes in a walkable, transit-connected neighbourhood.
For sellers, the combination of heritage charm, central location, and cultural vibrancy makes listings in Little Italy stand out. For buyers, it’s an opportunity to join a community that balances history with growth — and Mark Christie’s decades of Ottawa real estate experience can help guide the way.