DreamLand Cafe in Ottawa

262 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1R 7R5, Canada

★★★★★
(699 reviews)
Categories: Italian restaurant Cafe

About

Contemporary Italian fixture with a warm vibe & a patio, doling out pasta dishes, cocktails & wine.

Website
dreamlandcafe.ca
Address
262 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1R 7R5, Canada
Plus Code
C73Q+Q6 Nepean, Ottawa, ON, Canada
Time Zone
America/Toronto

Business Hours

Monday
Closed
Tuesday
5–10 PM
Wednesday
5–10 PM
Thursday
5–10 PM
Friday
4–10 PM
Saturday
11:30 AM–10 PM
Sunday
Closed

Services

From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Outdoor seating Kerbside pickup Delivery Takeaway Dine-in
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Small plates Spirits Vegan options Vegetarian options Wine
Dining options
Breakfast Brunch Dinner Catering Dessert Seating
Amenities
Bar on site Gender-neutral toilets Toilets Wi-Fi Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly Groups LGBTQ+ friendly
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs
Parking
Free of charge street parking

Photos

Reviews

4.6
★★★★★
699 reviews

Most Mentioned

garlic bread (31) mac and cheese (26) patio (24) brussel sprouts (17) alfredo (16) spaghetti and meatballs (12) puttanesca (9) meatball sub (6) cacio e pepe (6) italian soda (5)
5 stars
546
4 stars
95
3 stars
29
2 stars
10
1 stars
19
★★★★
October 8, 2024

I heard alot about this place so I decided to give it a try. The portion is small but tasty. The tiramisu is different...not your typical and not my favorite. The beer options are mostly hoppy ipa. The garlic bread is 4 bites maybe 6, but it's only 1.50. It is a nice place to try but for the money 💰 I don't feel that the dollar goes far at this location, you will most likely leave hungry. It may look like you have a full bowl of food but the dish is shallow and deceiving.

★★★★★
October 7, 2024

Great meal and service at Dreamland Cafe. Had the Brussels to start and Mac and cheese as a main. Both dishes were delicious and filling. Did not get dessert, so unable to comment. Good atmosphere overall. Would recommend to others.

★★★★
September 27, 2024

Had a really nice dinner at this small, popular, dim lit cafe on the main strip in Little Italy. I opted for a delicious spicy rose sauce penne. We ordered one order of garlic bread to share. We were surprised at how small it was. Plus there is no complimentary basket of bread with the meal. Besides that we shared a decadent Pumpkin Spice Crème Brûlée dessert and had some Cappuccino. Again I was surprised at the tiny cups. Although cute it felt like we could have had a larger cup like other restaurants. Good experience overall though. Service was excellent.

★★★★
September 6, 2024

We started with drinks that were both delicious. My friend had the lemonade which can be tart for some but they use lots of lemon juice. For the food, we got Fettuccini Alfredo topped with chicken and it was divine. The Amatriciana carbonara was tasty, however the mix of these 2 classics is a miss for me. It would be awesome to have the options classic carbonara and Amatriciana back on the menu. As well as a coffee base classic tiramisu. Like the menu a year ago I believe. Service was excellent, the server was agreeable and quick.

★★★★★
August 31, 2024

My sister and I felt like having pasta yesterday and this place did not disappoint! We both sometimes get picky with our pasta but the food was a solid 10/10. The customer service was also great, the staff we're welcoming and kind. There's a paid parking lot that's like a 30 second walk from the restaurant. It's a cute small restaurant, great place to stop by for lunch. I'll definitely be going again! :)

★★★★★
July 23, 2024

The best pasta place in Ottawa! I ordered the Rosey & Spicy, asked for it without vodka and brown butter, and added shrimp. I love how easy it is to customize the dish to your liking. 10/10 would recommend.

★★★★★
July 20, 2024

Really enjoyed my meal (spaghetti and meatballs)! Every bite! Service was great and the place is just so darn cute! Can't wait to go back!

★★★★
July 14, 2024

Went to Dreamland Cafe after listening to all the rave reviews from other restaurant owners of Ottawa saying they have the best pasta in Ottawa. A group of 3 of us went for lunch on a Saturday. It wasn’t busy at opening. I got the pesto as described as the most popular pasta ordered there by the waitress. My fiancée got the broccoli Mac n cheese. I also ordered the 2 side meatballs to try. My pesto was very salty. My fiancée Mac was very salty. The meatballs were dry and I wasn’t a fan of the sauce. My fiancée and best friend finished them and liked them. If the salt level was lowered I think it would have been a superb pasta. It was cooked well and had a good amount of flavour. They give you tons of sauce so ordering bread to pick that all up is recommend if you like salt and can handle it. My fiancée and I each ordered a main dish, a drink (Non alcoholic) and a dessert to share and it was just under $90 which is pretty expensive for a lunch. Not my favourite pasta place in Ottawa - may visit again in a year or two.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2024

Pasta is absolutely delicious, prepared fresh and you can taste the care and quality that goes into it. Be patient this food is worth the wait. Great spot and really a treat to go and enjoy

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 8, 2024

Amazing food - it felt like you were right in Nonnas kitchen. I am very picky with my Gnocci when I eat out, and this is by far the best ive had at a restaurant. Old school Italian flavours, but still trendy and cute for a date night. I thought the cheesy dippers were good but didnt love the bread (but thats nitpicking) - the sauce though! Amazing. Carbonara was spot on and gnocci w/ sugo amatriciana is the best ive had in a long, long time. I put 4 stars for atmosphere because it is quite small, but the waitress let us know that they are doing renovations in the New Year and when I looked outside it does look like they have a patio. Cant wait to come back - its such a gem!

★★★★★
December 8, 2024

This was my fourth time here, and they never let me down! The Brussels sprouts and spicy vodka pasta are so delicious and full of flavor. The servers are super friendly and attentive, and the cozy vibe just tops it off. Definitely one of my favourite pasta spots in Ottawa!

★★★★★
December 8, 2024

Dietary restrictions: Gluten free Food

★★★★
Local Guide
December 1, 2024

Rare to find really good pasta, but this place does a good job!!

★★★★★
December 1, 2024

The Caesar salad with capers is delicious! Cute cozy spot with excellent friendly servers. My main was the red pepper deluxe with goat cheese patty. I couldn t finish it but I wish I could!! So good.

★★★★★
December 1, 2024

Been here multiple times but recently went for my birthday! They made it so special and were so accommodating :) The food was AMAZING, all times I went!!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 1, 2024

Phenomenal dinner out, a small dining area with polite and helpful staff. Not even yet to mention the delicious pasta for both of us, exactly what we were looking for. Didn t get my cheesy bread as the kitchen forgot, but no worries, I ll be back to get them next time.

★★★★★
November 24, 2024

Very cute, great food, great date location

★★★★
Local Guide
November 22, 2024

Their homemade noodles were cooked perfectly every time I visited. Delicious!

★★★★★
November 22, 2024

The restaurant is super cute inside and the servers are all super sweet. Their chicken Alfredo is extremely good, best I ve had.

November 22, 2024

Extremely poor customer service. We arrived a few minutes after 4 pm to a completely empty restaurant and was told they could seat us, then they backtracked and said they actually didn t have any tables. Again, it was 4 pm and the restaurant was empty. No smile, no apology, no accountability for the mistake of saying we could be sat.

★★★★★
November 22, 2024

Always the best service and food, its been super consistent every time I go. I love how intimate and cozy the space is.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

absolutely obsessed. tried so many different pastas and all 10/10.

★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

I like it

★★★
October 22, 2024

Overall good but disappointing service. They made us wait 25 minutes past our reservation time because the previous party was not leaving the table after paying. Only after I kept prompting the staff, did they finally tell the other party that they need the table. The pasta was served room temperature, but otherwise tasted very good. I do like the restaurant and wish I had a better experience!

★★★★★
October 22, 2024

Mmmm Yum Yum

★★★★★
September 22, 2024

Although the food tasted excellent, the calamari could be less salty and the dessert less sweet. The pasta, however, was perfection! The pasta was fresh and the sauce delicious, would definitely come back for more pasta.

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

Came here yesterday with a close friend who was moving out of the city. They suggested we check out Dreamland as we always walked by it late at night thinking it was a bakery. Last minute walk-in, it was full and had lots of resos, even though we were put on the wait list the waitress went out of her way to fit just 2 -people in which happed in 5mins. What we ordered: Smashed potatoes, calamari, caeser salad, garlic bread, meatballs, gnocchi and puttanesca ALL FRIGGIN DELICIOUS!

★★★★★
September 22, 2024

The place came from a Tiktok review so expectations were not high. The service was great, and the pasta was also delightful. We were put on a short waitlist but called for seating a little past the estimated time. Great restaurant and i will be visiting again. pictured is the red pepper deluxe

★★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

Portions were generous. Alfredo sauce felt a bit heavy. Mc & cheese was not particularly tasty.

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

Simple restaurant dishing out handmade pasta and rich sauces. You can really taste the difference. Loved how casual everything was.

★★★★★
September 22, 2024

My fiancé and I love this place! We were just in Venice, Italy and all we could think of everytime we went to a restaurant was that it didnt come close to Dreamland. Five Stars is not a high enough rating.

★★★★★
September 22, 2024

We were seated outside and it was a very nice atmosphere and the weather cooperated to eat al Fresca. The service was good. It did take a bit for the main to be served but it was fresh pasta and sauce and quality takes time. I would definitely come back and have thw shrimp pesto pasta next time.

★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

The gnocchi was good, but the Cacio E Pepe was undercooked. Because were Canadian were too shy to send it back and tell them this. About halfway through our meal a server came to check on us, but at that point there is no sending the food back. We were shocked that a pasta restaurant didnt get this right. The coconut cookie ice cream sandwich is worth buying on its own. 10/10 dessert.

★★★★★
August 22, 2024

Marlo & Coco are a dynamic duo!!! Maggie was our server this evening and what a great addition to the Dreamland Cafe Team. Maggie is personable, knowledgeable and a breath of fresh air. Truly amazing dining experience as always. Our dinner was next level. The Brussel Sprout appetizer is so addictive. The mains are all exceptional and delicious. Service is on point and prices are reasonable. I highly recommend you experience this establishment once a week.

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

Shrimp Pasta was 100/10

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

Get the garlic bread. You know you want to, and it s super worth it. Everything was delicious, perfectly seasoned, well portioned. Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

The pasta looks expensive at first but the portions are generous. The place is a little loud/echoey but a good vibe.

★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

Parking: There is some parking a short walk away on the main or side roads, but nothing on-site. Food

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

Natasha, Marlo, Maggie and Talya are marvellous!!!! Service unparalleled, food will have you dreaming

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

Bingo night was so fun, thank you so much for hosting! It was my first time there and I had the bolognese pasta, I can t wait to return to try the full menu.

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

The food was absolutely amazing, the vibe and music were perfect, and the service was beyond exceptional. Definitely dining here again!

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

Great pasta and tasty lemonade!

★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

We popped in for a quick dinner after work, I got the rosé rigatoni and my wife had the putanesca. The rosé tasted closer to Mac and cheese tbh, really wanted more tomato flavour out of it. The putanesca was delicious and the fresh noodles in both were great. Atmosphere was nice, though the wall AC unit was blowing directly over our table, which led to me having to eat quickly as my food was getting cold really fast. Cute vibes and the servers were very friendly and nice!

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

What a wonderful establishment! Beautifully decorated and incredible atmosphere! Marlo and Coco have created a wonderful establishment! The food was delicious! Maggie was an incredible server who was super attentive.

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

We tried the spicy rose pasta topped with brown butter, it was delicious. They were kind enough to accommodate our halal request by removing the vodka. We also tried the puttanesca, it was nice but not as good as the rose rigatoni pasta. The dippers were awesome as well. Service was excellent, would come back again!

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Delicious place for pasta, great options for various diets, delectable cocktails and cute, fun decor. Try the brussel sprouts!

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

My favourite non-bougie spot for pasta.

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

I ordered this for takeout because my girlfriend and I were really anticipating eating at dreamland after hearing about it and seeing the awesome looking food on the menu. The food was excellent, the staff was very kind and helpful, the only thing that was unfortunate was that my order took an hour to fulfill. It kind of shocked me because it took double the time they anticipated, I m still rating highly because I do feel like it was a one off scenario and hopefully would NEVER happen if I was dining in. Thank you to the staff for an amazing meal, will be back!

★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Had vegan options, the food was pretty good, garlic bread was a tad too garlicky and cheesy but that could just be their style. Pasta plates are definitely recommended. Service was slow waited over an hour to get the food, was blamed on a big rush for online orders.

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Amazing Pasta and Atmosphere

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

This was the best experience Ive ever had at a restaurant. You can tell they put lots of effort to make sure their costumers are happy. I have never had a pasta as good as the ones here. A definite 10/10 experience. I am already thinking about going back to there with my family, thats how good it was. Thank you for your amazing service.

★★★
June 22, 2024

My sister loves this place and likes to suggest it however it sucks cause while we love the food, the service is just not great. And it s not that the staff aren t friendly, its I think a customer service issue. Every time we order food for take out, it takes WAY longer than quoted. We took my mom here, ordered for pick up, 40 mins. Ok, we went for a nice walk, come back, oh, it s not quite ready yet. Ok cool. It took ANOTHER 40 mins. That s a big difference. They also do not apologize or offer you anything while you re waiting, they make excuses like oh there was an influx of walkins I get that but I already paid? I was technically here first? I already tipped you? Does none of that matter? My sister has had this issue her self multiple times now and it s just not cool. Then I was here recently again, we thought ok, we will order it so it s ready at a certain time this time. Still didn t work. We were 5 mins late, they said it would be another 10 mins ok .. but again, no apologies no nothing. It ended up taking another 30mins. And again, no offering of anything while we wait, no check ins to let us know what s going on in there like I REALLY want to like you!!! I m not sure why you don t prioritize customers who have already paid for the food. It just feels disrespectful. Like you ve trapped us cause we ve already paid and left a tip on a service I was anticipating but didn t even receive :(

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Creamy Pesto is the best Ive ever had. Couldnt stop thinking about it for months. Had to go back.

★★★★★
May 22, 2024

Soo yummy! We tried everything on the menu (almost) and were impressed by everything! The brussle sprouts were a fan fave and both of our pasta entrees were lovely!! We also enjoyed the strawberry tiramisu and wow, sooo good!! Highly recommend, also cute tables!

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Been a few times, food is always solid, although the beet ravioli this past time was a noticeable standout.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Great food, especially the pasta. Our server was very attentive!

★★★★★
May 22, 2024

Great little spot! The french fete pasta was delicious, great service too.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Their pesto sauce is incredible.

★★★★★
May 22, 2024

The food at Dreamland Cafe was fantastic, but what really stood out was how welcome they made my family feel. We let them know in our reservation that our toddler would be joining us. When we arrived, a high chair was already set up with a little kids menu and kids cutlery ready for her. It was such a nice touch! A very family friendly spot that we cant wait to come back to. We really appreciated the great service, attention to detail and very delicious food - especially the truffle mac and cheese.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Food was delicious, fresh and hot. They can also accommodate dietary restrictions. Service was lovely. I absolutely adored the ambiance and artwork.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

So good

★★★★
April 22, 2024

Get the beef ragu, cheesy dippers & whichever type of gnocchi they re making that day and thank me later.

★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

The place is nicely decorated! The servers were very nice and friendly! We ordered alfredo and rosé pasta, and both really tasted so well! The spice, taste, everything was on point! Although the place is pretty small, and it can get noisey/loud when it s full, the food is really good, and would just be a wonderful experience if it werent too loud around in there!

★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

Have mostly had dreamland via takeout, but it s always been great. Would recommend!

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 22, 2024

Easily the best pasta in ottawa

★★★★★
April 22, 2024

I ve been to Dreamland Cafe twice in the last couple weeks and it never disappoints. Amazing service from the staff and amazing food. Will be back very soon!

★★★★★
April 22, 2024

We love this restaurant and their staff. The pasta is exceptional! Go and enjoy!!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 22, 2024

Pasta destination! Unique twist on classic Italian dishes is an absolute must try. Cute little space with excellent service. We had the creamy pesto and rose & spicy two of the best dishes on the menu. The pesto was so fresh and full of flavour. The rose had the perfect amount of heat and the brown butter brought it to the next level. Will be coming back to Ottawa just for this pasta.

★★★★
March 22, 2024

Nice place overall. I got the rosey and Spicy and asked for more spicy and they did, it was great. Portion size was a bit more on the smaller side so if you re hungry upgrade to the large. The garlic bread was great, good amount of garlic. Would definitely go again

★★★★
Local Guide
March 22, 2024

The food is great. Pasta is homemade. The place is targeted at a younger crowd.

Local Guide
March 22, 2024

Was looking forward to trying Dreamland for a while and my experience was the complete opposite of how I anticipated things to go. I placed a pick-up order and was there a few minutes early wow is the staff condescending. I m not sure if it was cause I am a guy but the way I was ignored for so long and give such sub-par service from the door (not even dining) would have been the easiest of things for them to do, all they had to do was deliver my food in a bag and I was on my way. But that was not the case. Extremely rude staff and made me feel cause I was a guy that I was not welcome. Extremely terrible experience and could have been more disappointed considering I waited so long to try it. The owners need to treat their staff how to treat ALL their customers with some decency considering we are just there to enjoy some food. Will never be recommending this place ever. AVOID AT ALL COSTS

★★★★★
March 22, 2024

Pesto mac and Alfredo pasta are the best! Need to go back and try more

★★★★★
February 22, 2024

My favourite place to go!! Great service and amazing food and drinks. Their pasta is a must try!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

This restaurant had a really great atmosphere and efficient service. It is quite small so it is probably best to book a reservation in advance. The portions are a good size for the price, but the drinks are on the more expensive side. Would go again regardless. The dessert was also really good.

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

Excellent food, you can tell its hand made and fresh pasta. The sauces are perfect as well. Its quite the pricey spot, but as a special occasion its always a good pick. The garlic bread is awesome, load up on it!

★★★
February 22, 2024

Came here a year ago and had a good experience, so much that we wanted to come back for valentines day. Unfortunately we wont be coming back. Portions are overpriced for what you get, my gnocchi was replaced by ricotta cheese, so when you ask for cheese they dont put it on top of your pasta, they replace your pasta with it so it was even more lacking of food. Got a tiny $17 espresso martini, but it did taste good. And the food came out just warm, so halfway through eating, its cold. Same thing with our appetizer, was hard to enjoy cold food. Overall felt robbed for what you get, especially when they used to give more. Staff are very friendly though!

★★★★★
January 22, 2024

My comfort spot There is no better food in Ottawa tbh. Their food never misses

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

My partner and I favourite pasta place. Make the trek out at least once a month to get it. The rotating menu is always a nice change and the staff is delightful every time.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Lemon pesto pasta with shrimp is the way to go

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Delish food and very friendly staff.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Perfect evening. Service was top class, and the food was best ever. I will be back every time I m in town for sure! Best night ever.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

I LOVE everything about the Dreamland Cafe!!! These two wonderful ladies and there amazing team knock it out of the park every time!!! You can feel the warmth when you come through the front door. You can taste the passion in every bite. This is by far my favourite restaurant in the world. I need to get a job here just so I can enjoy a staff meal here every day!!!! Thank You All!!!!

★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Food was better than I expected but still lacking. The gnocchi was fine but there was nothing special about it. The simplicity of pasta dishes should allow for the quality of the ingredients to stand out, but I didnt feel that here. The Brussels sprouts had potential, however there was way too much sauce and it ended up making everything overly salty and sour. I thoroughly enjoyed the smashed potatoes; they were seasoned very well and I can highly recommend those. Avoid the tiramisu at ALL costs; its like a train wreck that you cant look away from. Its practically 70% mascarpone cream with the thinnest layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers that you can imagine. Ive never had a salty tiramisu before but this was a one-of-a kind horrific experience. The bread pudding was the opposite; overly sweet and almost slimy in texture. For the price; pass on this. Buy some pasta and sauce from a nearby Italian market (youre in the neighbourhood, anyway!) and youll likely end up with a better result.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

I wanted a nice date night for my girlfriend and I, and we were not disappointed. A cozy, warm little establishment with attentive and energetic staff who always made sure we had what we needed. The appetizers were nicely portioned and very tasty. The main course was a hearty bolognese pasta that still sits very happily in my stomach as I write this. I even had enough in me for a little brownie ice cream, which cured that sweet craving. It was a full house when we arrived, and as such was a little loud. But the jovial atmosphere and watching everyone happily devour their food just made for good vibes all around. Easiest recommendation for a nice night out and I will definitely be back to try the many varieties of pastas!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Service was great. I had the spaghetti and it was the best I have ever had. I will say that the restaurant is very small so it is definitely worth booking in advance. If you are a fan of pasta this is a must try in Ottawa and well worth the trip across town for us. I was very impressed and won t soon forget about the dinner I had here.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Great spot in little Italy. Food and service were fantastic. Definitely worth trying compared to many of the lack luster pasta places in the area tbh

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

This little restaurant was such a pleasant surprise! The decor was lovely and welcoming, loved the atmosphere and the service. The food though... Absolutely mind blowing. Everything was insanely delicious, and its all made fresh in house. What an experience, I highly recommend the truffle and mushroom mac and cheese!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Beautiful, cozy place with one of the best food I have ever had. Delicious food and drinks. Great service. Glad to have discovered it. PS: Must try their mac mushroom truffle.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Absolutely wonderful dinner, the staff were very attentive and made sure my partners birthday was wonderful. Meal came out very quickly and was delicious. This place has comfort meal down in our household with the Mac n cheeses with all the different choices. The truffle one being our favorite thus far. Wine selection was amazing and not your everyday they bought a box of 50 bottles of the same kind. Desert was good, nothing to scream home about and it was better then normal restaurant quality desert. Easily in my top 5 of choices for date night pasta in Ottawa. Make sure you get a reservation

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Home style Italian cuisine well-prepared and served! Surprisingly interesting wine list. Parking: city lot across the street is free evenings

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Dreamland is dope.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

It was a very cute, small and cozy restaurant. Our waitress was very fun! The mac and cheese was very good and unique. The garlic bread and the spreads were also very tasty. The spaghetti and meatballs were decent, nothing special, but still good. Would come again.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Wait staff very friendly and atte tive. Space is small. I have tried many items and really enjoy!

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Delicious, I love this place I wish they were open more days Mucho gracias Chicas

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Best vegan pasta in the city! I love the Brussel Sprouts appetizer

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Still dreaming about that garlic bread! Food was very good, would definitely recommend for date night or with some friends but the place is pretty small so you probably need a reservation or some luck!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

DreamLand Café is honestly the best place to eat in Ottawa if you re craving Italian food, or just food in general. Everything from their appetizers to their dessert menu is full of flavour and never disappoints. We went to DreamLand last night as we were fasting, and the staff was extremely accommodating. Our reservation was set for later, but Natasha took our order ahead of time so that the kitchen can start cooking while we awaited our seating. Our server Kamisha was super cool and friendly too! I was really impressed with the way everything was handled and will definitely be going again. Thank you Natasha and Kamisha for an amazing night!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

The food was good, the drinks were good, the staff were friendly, and the tables were shaped like raviolis.

December 22, 2023

I had been wanting to try this place for a long time as the food looks delicious and it has great reviews. I ordered the rose all day with added mushroom and chicken on uber eats which was pricey but seemed worth a try. I also ordered a side of garlic bread which was tasty. The pasta came hot which was great, but unfortunately the rose sauce tasted very sour/acidic so I was really disappointed in the flavour and couldnt finish it. I am sure the other menu items are good but this one I cannot recommend ...bummer! :(

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Not really comfortable tables. Delicious food.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Just wow incredibly good! Only a little noisy inside, but otherwise great place to discover!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Wow! The meal was FABULOUS! We loved everything, their homemade pesto is incredible! The cheezy bread appetizer with the little sauces was very good and fresh. I like thick pasta so I really liked their spaghetti. Pesto pasta is Majestic! The shrimp a little overcooked, but the taste is there. The Corn and Bacon Mac and Cheese was very good! Explosion of flavor, I would have taken a little more sriracha because it didnt taste enough for my taste. The spaghetti bolognese was good, tomatoy and well balanced, the meatballs were good. The homemade banana ice cream with the brownie was insane! I recommend it 100%, just wow! The strawberry tiramisu is very good too, creamy, light, caffeinated and fruity, I was surprised by the flavors. We will see each other again soon without a shadow of a doubt. Good service, the waitresses are smiling, fast and attentive. Beautiful atmosphere, beautiful decor, but very noisy. Thanks again. Wheelchair accessibility: No walking

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Had a great time. Cocktails were fun and well made. Great wine list. Loved the meatballs and garlic bread and both of our pastas were outstanding. Oh we ll be back alright.

★★★
December 22, 2023

The salad was great Pasta not so good

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Super friendly staff, delicious flavourful saucy pasta. Would recommend!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Best pasta I ve had in recent years

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Absolute delight. Food was great, awesome portions, perfect service. Vegan food was also great!

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

This place is the perfect balance of a casual atmosphere, yet you feel like you re fine dining by the quality of the food. We were looking for amazing fresh pasta and that s what we got - fair prices/portions. Recommend the carbonara and shrimp pesto!

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Amazing service, phenomenal food, and great atmosphere. Every attention to detail was paid (including special kids cutlery and plates for my daughter and a fun Happy Birthday message for my husband upon arrival). Lots of delicious vegan options. The portions were generous and everything was tasty, but my favourite had to be the Brussels sprouts! And the Strawberry Shortcake cocktail was one of the best cocktails Ive ever had. My only regret is not checking this restaurant out sooner. Ill be back soon!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

I love the fact that this cafe is owned by two young ladies! They re so friendly and the service is great. The interior is adorable. And the pasta is absolutely to for. I would recommend this place to anyone.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Had a wonderful visit here! It s a very small spot, so make a reservation beforehand as things filled up quickly. The gnocchi was really scrumptious and they had great cider too. Lots of vegetarian/vegan options. Shoutout to Dani, who was our awesome server! Will absolutely be coming back here again.

December 22, 2023

Horrible dessert and coffee . No flavour in either. What a disappointment

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

DreamLand Cafe is truly a dream come true for those who seek a cozy, homely environment to enjoy a good meal or just unwind with a cup of coffee. From its comforting atmosphere to the delightful menu, this establishment has left an indelible impression that warrants this glowing review. Upon entering DreamLand Cafe, one is greeted with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. The decor is tastefully done, creating a calm and inviting space that adds to the overall dining experience. The real magic, however, lies in the cafes menu. DreamLand Cafe offers an array of dishes that are comforting, delicious, and beautifully presented. The focus is clearly on quality over quantity, with each dish masterfully prepared using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Whether youre in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or a fulfilling dinner, DreamLand Cafe has got you covered. The menu is diverse, catering to various palates and dietary preferences. The pastas are particularly noteworthy, offering a perfect balance of flavors that are sure to delight any food enthusiast. Complementing the food is a range of beverages, from artisanal coffee to refreshing smoothies and much more. The coffee, in particular, is a must-try rich, perfectly brewed, and served just right. The staff at DreamLand Cafe deserve a special mention for their friendly, attentive, and professional service. They go the extra mile to ensure guests feel welcomed and cared for, enhancing the overall dining experience. Moreover, the cafes commitment to maintaining a clean and safe environment is commendable, particularly in these times when hygiene is of utmost importance. In summary, DreamLand Cafe offers more than just a meal. It provides a delightful culinary experience in a cozy, welcoming setting, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. Whether youre meeting friends, working on your laptop, or simply enjoying a quiet meal, DreamLand Cafe is the perfect spot.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Garlic bread was incredible, pasta was delicious. Cute little spot

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

In LOVE with this restaurant. Love the new tables handmade by a local. Great addition. Cant go wrong with their Mac n cheese. Dreaming of dreamland. Had to go the night before my 6 months travels abroad Food

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

One of the best pasta restaurants Ive been to in Ottawa. Highly recommend the cocktails and of course dipper garlic bread starter The staff was kind and helpful with suggestions.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

If you re craving some delicious pasta, DreamLand has to be your next spot to eat! The pasta options are phenomenal (definitely recommend the creamy pesto), the drinks are fun and tasty, and the overall menu plus atmosphere is just perfect!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

A fun place, great service and food.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Visited Ottawa from Toronto with some family and decided to have dinner here on our first night. The place itself is pretty small, but they do have some outdoor seating. All the servers were very nice and helpful. There was a bit of a wait when we got there and they handed us some menus to look over while they arranged our table. We ordered the brussels sprouts and cheesy garlic bread to start. The brussels were tender and were coated in a delicious dressing that had a hint of freshness to it. Cheesy garlic bread was a hit because you cant really go wrong with bread and cheese. It was a bit pricey for only 4 slices but it was honestly so good that we even ordered a second round. I highly recommend the creamy pesto pasta and rose all day. Pasta was cooked perfectly and each sauce was flavourful. We also ordered cocktails but unfortunately we werent a big fan of any of them so I would just stick to this place for the food!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Best carbonara and Alfredo Ive had... possibly ever! Sauce was rich but not too heavy, and the flavors were just right. The cheesy garlic bread was also delicious, but not quite as special as the pasta. I would be willing to bet that this is the best pasta in the city. Vegetarian options: Vegan options

★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Although the rate is high, but the pasta here is not so good. The source is too creamy so I keep drinking water after dinner. And the price is not that reasonable, you can have better experience in other place. But Tiramisu is good.

December 22, 2023

Unfortunately the online reservation feature was a major disappointment as it does not disclose that the waitlist is only for the outdoor patio and that it does not include indoor seating.. After standing outside for 15 minutes in the rain, with employees clearly seeing us wait, we inquired to find out that we were standing there wasting our time, getting soaked in the rain. We were excited to try the food here, however, left disappointed. What bothered me more was the poor customer service in response to the situation. If the roles were reversed, I would definitely approach customers so that they could be informed there was no availability.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

If you haven t tried the smelts and the butter beans, you MUST! I wish I had taken pics, but honestly they were devoured before I could think of it. Love the staff front and back. They always make us feel welcome and at home. As always, this little gem of a restaurant didn t disappoint.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

The pesto linguini is delicious! I loved the sauce. Im giving it 4 stars because the quantity isnt a lot for the price. Youd need to order additional protein and garlic bread on top of the pasta if youd like to be full (like my friends dish in the photo). I had to eat something afterwards... We sat outside as it was a summer night so I didnt go inside the restaurant... But from what I saw it looked nice.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Best night out with friends and family I ve had in a long time! The food here was absolutely incredible- I had the Shrimply the Best pasta (gluten free) and agree it holds true to its name. Staff was friendly, service was quick, and drinks were phenomenal! Dietary restrictions: Delicious gluten free options!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Came here for an anniversary dinner back in November and was absolutely blown away by my pasta dish. Best Ive had outside of Italy, I know it sounds pretentious, but it was that good; the sauce flavour profile was complex, the pasta was fresh and perfectly al dente, and the whole thing was rich yet balanced. I hyped it up to myself and all my friends. Came back in July and was quite disappointed. Menu has changed, and my dish was nowhere near as good. Sauce was watery and lacked depth. Pasta was overcooked. Hopefully it was a fluke! But I hesitate to go back.

★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

I was really excited to try this place after hearing so much about but I was incredibly disappointed with the food when I finally got the chance to try it. The pasta, in my opinion, was just not it. I found the taste to be really bland and lacking in flavour. The service was good though, so there s that. The atmosphere/venue is also nice. Overall, I don t think that I will be coming back here.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

I am never disappointed when I eat here. Always consistent with great food and service. The prices are reasonable. Ive had their meatballs, dippers, puttanesca, cavolo limone, gnocchi, and pesto. All great!

★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

This place is pretty average. I get the appeal for a younger crowd, but I wouldn t say it s some of the best pasta in Ottawa like some of these comments. The dishes aren t super innovative and I feel that I could make most of these pastas at home. It s not the worst (pasta can never really be bad) but it s not amazing.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Amazing Italian comfort food!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Wonderful small pasta restaurant. Really great service, amazing food and a nice curated wine list.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

The food was excellent and the atmosphere was really cute, especially on the patio in the evening. Service was great too, we were seated promptly and our server was really attentive. I got the puttanesca pasta, and I could eat the sauce straight it was so good. The garlic bread was also great, really buttery and garlicky.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Lovely little spot with yummy food! Gluten-free pasta is available. I recommend the Rose all day creamy sauce

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Excellent food and friendly service. Ive never actually sat inside the restaurant since Ive only sat on the patio but I think its a great place to eat! Vegetarian options: The vegan and vegetarian options Ive tried are all very good. Doesnt slack on the flavour!

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

The Sriracha mac and cheese is to die for a long with all of the other pasta dishes!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Beautiful café, lovely staff and the food was great. I had the Shrimply the Best! Patio was cozy, wine good and the cheese bread was amazing. Food

★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

I enjoyed the service, but I dont eat meat and I ordered the pesto vegetarian, like the menu suggested and it came with nothing, just the pasta with sauce. I was expecting some protein or at least some veggies on my plate. For the price, it shouldve included something else.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Carbonara was fantastic

★★★
December 22, 2023

Food here is delicious. But their customer service definitely needs improvement. Went once with a reservation and really liked the food so decided to take my husband to try it. We didnt have a reservation so we had to wait, not a problem. We were quoted 20 minutes. After grabbing a drink a few doors down we came back 35 minutes later as we assumed they didnt grab the right number to text us at. When we showed up they said it would be just another hour or so. 20 minutes is completely different than 1h35 especially since we didnt even get an apology from the staff for the miscommunication.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

One of the best restaurants in Ottawa. You can tell that a lot of love has gone into the menu.

★★★
December 22, 2023

spaghetti and meatballs didnt meet my expectations but not so bad

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

I adore the food, the atmosphere, the staff - the whole shebang!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

The cutest dinner date spot! Girlfriend and I came here on a Friday night and they still had tables for 2. We tried the espresso martini, which was more like a latte?? It was creamy, pretty sweet, and not much alcohol. The pinot grigio was normal. Their caesar salad is one of the best I ve had in Ottawa. It had the right amount of tartness, crunch, and dressing. For our mains, we tried the cacio e pepe and green eggs and ham. Would recommend both. Food took about 25 minutes to come.

December 22, 2023

I went for the tiramisu that my wife told me was amazing, and it didnt have mascarpone or taste coffe. Really bad cake full of cream without flavor. I felt robbed.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Awesome experience!! The restaurant is so cute and cozy. It s candlelit and has a nice atmosphere. I love the ravioli shaped tables. The service was great. Everything we tried was incredible, our favourite ended up being the machta tiramisu for dessert. This is an awesome spot for a girls dinner or even a romantic date.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Had the spicy rose pasta and it was excellent. My spouse had the truffle Mac and it was very good as well. Dietary restrictions: They have some Vegan options

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

The food is amazing! Try the Brussel sprouts....you wont be disappointed! Dietary restrictions: The best gluten free pasta dinner I have had! Food : 5/5 |

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Best Puttanesca you will ever have!!! The caper olive and sausage combination is to die for. Dreamland is a must try if you enjoy high quality, delicious pasta.

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Amazing service amazing staff love the Caesar salad lots of bacon.. onions and capers..

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Dreamland is consistently fantastic. Every time I go Im impressed with the food. I recommend this place All. The. Time. They have a fantastic and reasonablly priced wine selection and even their mocktails are great. Make a reservation cause they fill up quick.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Tasty food!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

I got pasta puttanesca with meat balls. It was excellent.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Service was great, and the food too! I ordered the mac with pesto.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Home-made pasta that is extremely flavorful. Attentive staff and nice little location. If you come hungry, I suggest upgrading the portion size or grabbing a appetizer.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Follow my food blog on Instagram for restaurant reviews: @mimi.munches! Ive always wanted to go to Dreamland for the longest time after seeing delicious pasta photos everywhere, and finally got the chance to go recently! . Firstly, their interiors are SO cozy and decorated beautifully. I recommend making a reservation, and Im looking forward to dining on their outdoor patio this summer! . To start, we both got their house sodas - I tried the Cherry-Lime, and my friend got the Raspberry-Lemon. Both were so pretty in colour and very photogenic, plus had a strong fruit flavour which went really well with the rich pasta dishes. . We decided to share an appetizer, their Just Meatballs ($12), which had 3 of Nonnas famous meatballs doused in tomato sauce and parmesan, served with garlic bread. This was a great starter, although it IS a lot of meat! Next time, Id love to try the meatball sub. . As for the pastas, I chose the Carbonara ($20): with creamy egg & parmesan sauce with crispy strips of guanciale. Topped with lots of parmesan. This was SO indulgent, and exactly what I wanted! Cant go wrong. The pasta (spaghetti) was cooked perfectly and had lots of flavour. . My friend got the Puttanesca ($19), which I liked more than the Carbonara. Why? It had smashed cherry tomatoes, roasted red pepper purée, habanero peppers, sautéed onions, green olives, pesto, & crispy capers. The pasta is Rigatoni, which is great as it can hold a lot of sauce! They recommend a sausage add on, which was chosen - definitely recommend for additional flavour! . Location: 262 Preston Street, Ottawa, ON K1R 7R5 (Little Italy)

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Very cute cafe and patio! It gets pretty busy during dinner so I would recommend booking in advance. When the food came out, the portions looked small but I was surprised by how filling it was! I ordered the red pepper pasta, meatballs, and garlic bread and was very pleased. Customer service was great, too.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Delicious as always and the service was excellent!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

OMG .Outrageously Good!!!! The Strawberry-Rhubarb Lemonade ..Brussel Sprouts .Carbonara .Gnocchi .Tiramisu Everything and i mean EVERYTHING was so flavourful, fresh and yummy!!! The service also from Reace just added to a spectacular experience!!! I would say the best meal ever in Ottawa and definitely our favourite restaurant in Ottawa! If you haven t tried this place yet .Run, don t walk!!!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

So cute! It gets busy so make sure to get a reso or get there early.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Dreamland is my favourite restaurant of all time. The food is always amazing, the staff are so kind and service is excellent. I always come here for every special occasion. Ottawa is lucky to have dreamland!

★★
December 22, 2022

Generally the food is fine. But the estimated pick up times are a joke. Waited 1/2 an hour longer than our quoted pick up time and got a parking ticket while waiting. Made for an expensive dinner.

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

First time here I went alone the atmosphere is to be admired I loved walking in and such a vibe. I sat in the outside area and it s cute. The food was amazing the drinks are refreshing the menu is great and there are so many things to try! The food came out HOT and i left very full dessert was delicious but I couldn t finish. My server was delightful all the employees working were very pleasant uplifting and it was a really nice experience Will be back again

December 22, 2022

Ordered two meals for pickup and was given nearly a two hour wait time. Then, while I m on my way they call me 3 minutes before their estimated pickup time to tell me they don t have either of the meats for both meals. Horrible customer service and terrible experience. Won t be going back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Super hard to get a table cause these ladies know how to make pasta! Love their vegan pesto. Just wish they would bring back vegan mac and cheese!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

On of the nicest pasta places. Their specialization on only pasta proved them right. Its the best pasta I had in a while. Quick service and nice location. The food was delicious. Alos love that you offer vegan and gluten-free options.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Lovely, artistic yet relaxing ambiance (especially the patio!), beverage options were creative and so tasty. Pasta was great, though portion size a bit small - would have loved an additional slice of garlic bread! Overall a great experience, I would go back.

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

By far, the best pasta I ve ever had. Ordered their Classic Mac n Cheese, and it was incredible. My girlfriend ordered their Rose pasta as a safe bet, and enjoyed it, but wish she tried something else after trying my dish. Our desert was great, and their house lemonade was good too. The only disappointing thing about this restaurant is it s a five hour drive from home.

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Delicious pasta! We really enjoyed our experience at dreamland. The pasta is amazing and freshly made. One of the best places for Italian pasta Ive been to here in Ottawa. The service was great as well. I would definitely come back here.

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Amazing food, great staff. Atmosphere is very fun

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Has lots of vegetarian options. When I visited everything on the main menu was tree nut free. Only items on the dessert menu had nuts and staff was knowledgeable about potential cross contamination and sanitary procedures. LGBT friendly as well.

★★★
December 22, 2022

Good food, the pasta seems to be home-made but the portions are quite small. This a place where you come because you have a craving for pasta, not for a full dinner, it is not expensive in itself but its expensive for what you get. The entire menu is basically pasta.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Very cozy spot with great atmosphere and service was perfect. Very helpful and fun. Very cool tables and diverse wine selection.

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

The meals my wife and I enjoyed were unbelievably good. Best rosé sauce Ive ever had and the french Feté was outstanding. This is a must-go Ottawa experience!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Just went there last night for a friends birthday! Such a cute restaurant packed with affordable pasta dishes to choose from! The staff are incredibly kind, patient, helpful, and accommodating. Im a picky eater, so I was able to create a pasta dish by choosing something from 3 other dishes. You can add a variety of meat &/or vegetables to your pasta as much as you want for a small price + the garlic bread is to die for! I would have ordered more if I wasnt so full. We really enjoyed our time!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

The only complaint I have is that it s so good that I can t wait to go back ! Everything from the fine details of the decor to the friendly service and absolutely amazing dishes!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Great food great staff !!!

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Hands down best mac n Cheese in Ottawa

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Food and service was absolutely amazing. And they have built such a great environment. So cozy!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Dreamland is sooooo good. I got the red pepper ricotta and it changed my life.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

This is my second time ordering from Dreamland and it is SO GOOD. It is pricey, but worth every penny. I ordered the puttanesca with meatballs and ricotta red pepper. They were both so delicious. The puttanesca was slightly spicy, but it was the perfect amount of spice. Dreamland is probably the best restaurant to order pasta from in Ottawa, would definitely return!

★★★★
December 22, 2022

Such a cute spot, and amazing pasta.