Cantina Gia

Underwhelming, at best. Cantina Gia has the makings of what should be a great pasta restaurant, but it simply falls short. Their carbonara is very salty, their creste rigate and sausage is an oily mess, and their appetizers are mediocre. It would be nice to have an above average pasta restaurant in the Glebe, but unfortunately, Cantina Gia falls far below average. Their brunch is good, but beyond that it is overly expensive for the poor food and srevice.

Visited the city for a work trip and was suggested by a friend of mine to come here for dinner and was not disappointed at all.

The ambience here is very moody. Can be a bit loud but overall did not bother me, it is a nice intimate space.

Shameen was serving me at the bar and I asked for her recommendations as everything looked good. The crudo was light and refreshing with a bit of crunch that complimented it very well.

The pasta Shameen recommended was amazing. One of the best pastas I’ve had in a long while. It was the Creste Rigate & Sausage. I will be dreaming of not only that pasta dish but the Tiramisu as well. It was nice and rich and the best way to end the meal.

The wine selection and cocktails were also great.

Whenever I get the chance to come back to the city, I will be back here for sure.

We were here on a Saturday and enjoyed a few things off the brunch menu – the eggs Benedict, carbonara and a few other dishes were all delicious. Stylish decor, great food and friendly service.

I can’t speak to the main dishes I went for dessert and drink only but it was amazing. I got the panna cotta (probably best I’ve ever had in Ottawa) and a Sfumato digestif (also incredible). The presentation was wonderful and the service was exceptional, the servers here are top tier for a relaxed laid back experience. The server in the animal print top working the back room on Thursday was awesome, she made me and my friends “galentines night out” better with quick friendly service on a busy night. Thank you! Will definitely return!

Appetizers were amazing really recommend the arancini balls (best I’ve ever had), Ceasar salad, and carrots and mushroom sides. Cocktails were limited but the wine list was extensive. Dessert was a highlight, loved the espresso and the panna cotta was creamy, not too sweet.

Pastas were unfortunately not great especially for the price. The braised lamb pasta dish was expensive and the lamb was dry, not much flavour. The meatballs and spaghetti were the greatest disappointment. The pasta itself was al dente well cooked but the sauce was bland, undersalted, and lacking in flavour. The meatballs were also dry, and under seasoned. Super disappointed in the pasta.

Service was wonderful and the atmosphere was nice. Overall, mixed bag but we overall enjoyed the experience.

Amazing venue for a smaller wedding or party.

The atmosphere was eclectic, classy, quaint and nostalgic.

The food and drink were absolutely delicious.

The service was beyond excellent, and they anticipated every need and whim.

I highly recommend Cantina Gia.