About
Welcome to Chez Lucien, an eclectic gem nestled in the heart of Ottawa at 137 Murray Street. This charming eatery seamlessly blends the spirit of French culinary tradition with the welcoming vibe of a local diner. Known for its delightful menu and warm ambiance, Chez Lucien is a must-visit spot whether you're a visiting tourist or a local foodie.
As you step inside, you'll note the restaurant's vintage charm, characterized by walls adorned with captivating art, each piece telling its own story. The atmosphere here is vibrant yet cozy, making it feel almost like a little museum of culinary creativity. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a place steeped in character.
Now let’s dive into the star of the show: the food. Customers rave about their experiences here, particularly highlighting the house burger, which is often called one of the best in Ottawa. Served with crispy, flavorful fries and a side of creamy dipping sauces, it offers a satisfying experience that leaves a lasting impression. The burgers are cooked to perfection, with fresh veggies enhancing the overall delight.
The menu doesn't stop at burgers; the scallops are another highly recommended dish, expertly prepared and showcasing the chef's prowess in seafood cuisine. The poutine, renowned for its excellent gravy, is a must-try for any visitor. One bite reveals a depth of flavor that is balanced perfectly, a true tribute to French-Canadian comfort food.
Customers have consistently praised the attentive staff, who not only serve delicious food but also help guide your culinary journey with local recommendations. One reviewer shared how the bartender went above and beyond to ensure a perfect dining experience, highlighting the sense of community that Chez Lucien fosters.
In addition to the incredible fare, this restaurant's atmosphere buzzes with excitement, although it can become quite crowded during peak hours. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to snag a spot and soak in the ambiance. The only noted downside has been the cleanliness of the washrooms, but this minor detail pales in comparison to the culinary excitement that awaits.
In summary, Chez Lucien is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience. With fantastic food, a distinctive atmosphere, and a touch of local charm, it’s a culinary destination that deserves a spot on your Ottawa itinerary. Whether you're indulging in a classic burger or savoring the rich flavors of poutine, every dish promises to delight and surprise.
“ This was an amazing place for a burger, wonderful and truly delicious. Served with mayo and ketchup for dipping delicious yummy French fries, so good!!! Recommend this to any tourist to go and visit!! Wish I could have stayed in Ottawa longer to keep on enjoying this very yummy food. Beer was cold and satisfying!! Amazing spot have to recommend you check it out!! Space can be limited so he there early on busy times. ”
“ We came here after reading the review and we proof that the food here is really good ! The gravy of the poutine is excellent! I like the scallop most and the pecan pie does surprise us ! It’s not sweet but salty and it’s surprising good ! Highly recommend to try! ”
“ This place is known for its French dishes, but we stopped by just to grab a quick burger this time. That said, I definitely want to come back and try more of the menu. It’s an older spot with a ton of character, feels almost like a little museum. The building shows its age in a good way, and the walls are covered with art. Each piece has a note about the artist, and you can even buy them, which is a nice touch. The vibe is great. I really enjoy places like this that have some history and their own personality. The food was also solid. The burger was simple but really tasty, and it came nicely plated with a bunch of fresh veggies on the side. The fries were cooked perfectly and had good flavor. The only downside was the washrooms, they weren’t very clean. But overall, the staff were friendly and helpful, and the whole experience was a good one. I’ll definitely be back. ”
“ Scallops were amazing. Must try this if you come here. Seafood is wonderful. Steak is ok. Too crowed, the table is small. Loads of people and few staff so I couldn’t get water. ”
“ Absolutely incredible lunch while visiting Ottawa. Visited based on high reviews and multiple local’s recommendations. Got the Snails, Steak Pasta and House Burger. Never had Snails before but had to try and they were delicious. Prepared piping hot in a Garlic Butter. Steak on the Pasta was cooked perfectly and was so tender. Sauce had great flavor and the portion was bigger than it looked. The Burger was the highlight. Probably the best Burger I’ve ever had. Cooked perfectly and the Cream Cheese was a game changer. Bartender Jess was incredibly friendly and made sure we were taken care of. Also spoke with the Manager who gave us some great recommendations of things to check out while we were in town. Great experience, delicious and would highly recommend. ”
“ My visit to Chez Lucien was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment I walked in, the cozy, inviting atmosphere set the stage for a memorable meal. The staff was warm, attentive, and genuinely passionate about providing top-notch service. The menu, though not overwhelmingly large, offers a fantastic selection of French-inspired dishes that cater to a variety of tastes. I ordered the Lucien Burger, and it was one of the best I’ve had—perfectly cooked, incredibly flavorful, and complemented by crispy fries. My dining companion opted for the steak frites, and the quality of the meat, paired with the house-made sauce, was simply outstanding. Beyond the food, the ambiance added to the experience. Soft lighting, charming decor, and a laid-back yet elegant vibe made it a perfect spot for both casual dinners and special occasions. The pricing was reasonable, especially considering the quality of the ingredients and the care put into each dish. Overall, Chez Lucien exceeded my expectations. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal, a great glass of wine, or just a cozy spot to unwind, this place delivers. I’ll definitely be returning! ”
“ We came here in June as a family when we were visiting Ottawa. Food was great and fairly priced. The mussels were fresh and delicious! Service was good. We went around 6pm and it was busy and quite loud. Great location, would come again!! ”
“ Chez Lucien was recommended by friends, and we’re so glad we took their advice. From the moment we walked in, the welcoming atmosphere set the tone for an excellent dining experience. The service was friendly and attentive, adding to the overall enjoyment of the evening. The menu offered a great selection, and we were particularly impressed with the beer choices. The escargot was a standout—perfectly prepared with crispy, fresh bread and just the right amount of cheese. We also tried the salmon sandwich with fries, which was flavorful and well-balanced, as well as their pasta dishes, which did not disappoint. This visit left us eager to return and explore more of their menu. If you're looking for a cozy spot with great food and a fantastic ambiance, Chez Lucien is definitely worth a visit! ”