I recently had the pleasure of dining at Al Forno Pizza and Pub, the newest addition to Alta Vista Drive in Ottawa, and I’m beyond impressed with what this local gem has to offer. Even though it just opened, Al Forno is already serving up big flavour, great hospitality, and a menu that hits all the right notes.
I tried a small selection of dishes during my first visit, and each one left a lasting impression. Here’s a breakdown of what I ordered:
1. Fettuccine Alfredo:
Let’s start with comfort food at its finest. The Fettuccine Alfredo was creamy, rich, and perfectly seasoned. The pasta was cooked al dente, just the way I like it, and the sauce was velvety without being overly heavy. It had that ideal balance of garlic and parmesan, and you could tell it was made fresh and not poured out of a jar like at some places. It’s the kind of dish you’d crave on a cold Ottawa evening or anytime you want a satisfying, soul-warming plate of pasta.
2. Nashville Chicken Sandwich:
This one caught me by surprise in the best way. The Nashville Chicken was crispy, juicy, and had just the right amount of heat — enough to get your attention without overwhelming the palate. The breading was super flavorful with a beautiful crunch, and the spicy mayo and pickles gave it that authentic southern kick. Served in a soft bun that held everything together, it’s definitely one of the better takes on Nashville chicken I’ve had in Ottawa. If you’re into spicy sandwiches, this is a must-try.
3. Al Forno Heatwave Pizza:
As a pizza fan, I couldn’t visit Al Forno without trying one of their signature pies — and the Heatwave did not disappoint. This one’s for the spice lovers. It features a bold combination of hot peppers, spicy sausage, and just the right amount of cheese and sauce. The crust? Perfection. Crispy on the outside, soft and chewy inside, with that authentic wood-fired taste you can only get from a real forno oven. It had a smoky finish that paired beautifully with the spiciness. It’s got a serious kick, so be ready — but if you love heat, this pizza will be your new go-to.
4. Chicken Wings:
To round it out, I went with a side of chicken wings, and I’m so glad I did. They were juicy, nicely crisped, and coated in a flavorful sauce (I chose medium). You can tell they put care into even the smaller menu items. They’d be a great pick for sharing over drinks with friends, and I can definitely see this place becoming a go-to pub night spot.
Overall Experience:
The ambiance at Al Forno is casual and welcoming with a modern pub vibe — perfect for family dinners, casual dates, or catching up with friends. The service was fast and friendly, and the staff seemed genuinely excited to be part of something new in the community. It’s always refreshing to see a restaurant that puts quality and care into every plate.
If you’re in the Alta Vista area — or even if you’re not — Al Forno Pizza and Pub is absolutely worth the visit. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, bold flavours, or a cozy night out with great pizza and cold drinks, they’ve nailed it. I’ll definitely be back to try more of the menu soon!
