If you’re looking for a burger experience in Ottawa that is equal parts gourmet indulgence and culinary adventure, you’ll inevitably find yourself at The Works Craft Burgers & Beer. Born and raised in the nation’s capital, The Works has evolved from a single neighbourhood joint into a beloved regional institution, famous for its towering creations, industrial aesthetic, and drinks served in glass measuring cups. Whether you’re a burger enthusiast seeking new flavour frontiers or simply someone who appreciates a really well-made beef patty, The Works delivers an experience that’s uniquely Ottawa.
But here’s what makes The Works truly special: this isn’t your grandfather’s fast-food burger. We’re talking gourmet creations with ingredients like wagyu beef, elk, maple bacon jam, cheese curds, and unexpected combinations like peanut butter and bacon. The menu is massive—nearly 70 different burger combinations—and the willingness to experiment with wild, gourmet toppings makes every visit a chance to try something entirely new.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic or feeling adventurous enough to try peanut butter on your beef patty (yes, it actually works), The Works has you covered.
The History: From Beechwood to Ottawa Icon
The Works story began in 2001 when founder Ion Aimers opened the first location in Ottawa’s Beechwood neighbourhood, a charming area known for its European-inspired architecture and proximity to the Rideau River. At the time, gourmet burgers were just starting to become a trend in North America, but Ottawa hadn’t yet embraced the movement.
Aimers saw an opportunity. He wanted to create a restaurant that offered something different—a place where burgers were taken seriously, where the quality of ingredients mattered, and where customers could customize every aspect of their meal. The concept was revolutionary for Ottawa at the time: a burger joint that felt more like a craft restaurant than a fast-food outlet.
It didn’t take long for the restaurant to develop a cult-like following. Word spread quickly about the massive, creative burgers, the industrial decor, and the extensive craft beer selection. The Works became the place to go for special occasions, late-night indulgences, and everything in between.
In 2010, recognizing the brand’s success, Aimers sold the six-location Ottawa chain to Fresh Brands Inc., which took the “regional gem” national, expanding across Ontario. The brand continued to grow and evolve, maintaining its commitment to quality and creativity.
Later, in 2017, the Montreal-based MTY Food Group acquired the brand, which operates numerous restaurant chains across Canada. Today, slightly rebranded as The Works Craft Burgers & Beer to highlight their commitment to local brews, it remains an Ottawa point of pride, having won “Best Burger” in local polls for over a decade straight.
The brand has maintained its Ottawa roots even as it has expanded, with most locations still featuring that distinctive industrial aesthetic and commitment to creative burger combinations that made it famous.
What Makes The Works Special
Walking into any Works location, you are immediately struck by the industrial, “open-concept” decor. The restaurants are decked out in exposed brick, diamond-plate steel, and plumbing-pipe fixtures, giving them a gritty but welcoming vibe that feels more like a modern brewpub than a traditional burger joint.
The Works is famous for towering burger creations with unique toppings like maple bacon jam, cheese curds, and peanut butter—nearly 70 combinations to choose from.
The lighting is intentionally dim, the music is always good, and there’s an energy to the space that makes it perfect for gatherings with friends, date nights, or treating yourself to something indulgent.
The Customization: Build Your Dream Burger
But what truly sets The Works apart is the customization. You aren’t just ordering a beef patty—you can build your dream burger using their signature beef, wagyu, elk, turkey, chicken, or plant-based options. Every element is customizable:
- Protein options: Signature beef, premium wagyu, wild elk, lean turkey, chicken breast, plant-based Beyond Meat
- Cheese choices: Classic cheddar, pepper jack, Swiss, blue cheese, and more
- Sauces: Over a dozen house-made sauces including the famous “W Sauce,” chipotle mayo, garlic aioli, and more
- Toppings: Everything from caramelized onions and mushrooms to more adventurous options like mac and cheese, poutine toppings, and peanut butter
Their willingness to experiment with wild, gourmet toppings—from maple bacon jam and cheese curds to peanut butter and grilled pineapple—makes every visit a chance to try something entirely new. The menu features nearly 70 different combinations, but the real fun is creating your own.
The Drinks: Craft Beer in Measuring Cups
True to its name, The Works Craft Burgers & Beer takes its beverage selection seriously. The beer menu features a rotating selection of craft beers from Ontario breweries, served in distinctive glass measuring cups rather than standard pint glasses. It’s a quirky touch that adds to the industrial aesthetic and has become one of the restaurant’s signatures.
For non-beer drinkers, there’s also a selection of cocktails, wine, and soft drinks.
All The Works Locations in Ottawa: Hours, Addresses, and Practical Info
The Works has expanded to five locations across Ottawa, each with its own character and neighbourhood vibe:
The Glebe (Flagship Location)
580 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON K1S 3T3
Located in the heart of one of Ottawa’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, this is the flagship location and arguably the most popular.
- Hours: Sun–Thu: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Fri–Sat: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Parking: Street parking on Bank Street is metered and can be competitive, especially on weekends. Your best bet is the municipal parking lot (Lot 10) located just around the corner at 170 Second Ave, which offers hourly parking.
- Vibe: The classic Works experience. Always busy, always energetic, perfect for experiencing what The Works is all about.
- Nearby: Located in the heart of The Glebe neighbourhood, one of Ottawa’s most vibrant areas with excellent shopping and dining. Also close to Lansdowne Park and the Ottawa Farmers’ Market.
Westboro
326 Richmond Road, Ottawa, ON K1Z 6X6
Located in the trendy Westboro neighbourhood, known for its boutique shops, cafes, and proximity to the Ottawa River.
- Hours: Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Parking: Metered street parking is available along Richmond Road. There are a few small private paid lots nearby, but be wary of parking in adjacent grocery store lots, as they strictly enforce parking for their customers only.
- Vibe: A neighbourhood favourite. Quieter than the Glebe location but just as delicious.
- Nearby: Westboro Village offers great post-dinner walks along the Ottawa River.
Orléans
3712 Innes Road, Ottawa, ON K1W 0C8
Serving Ottawa’s east end, this location brings the Works experience to suburban Orléans.
- Hours: Sun–Thu: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Fri–Sat: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Parking: Located in a suburban commercial area, this location offers ample, free plaza parking right outside the doors.
- Vibe: Family-friendly suburban location with all the Works creativity.
- Nearby: Easy access to the Orléans shopping areas and the Innes Road commercial corridor.
Kanata
642 Eagleson Road, Kanata, ON K2M 2G9
Serving Ottawa’s tech hub and western suburbs, this location is popular with families and tech workers.
- Hours: Sun–Thu: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Fri–Sat: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Parking: Situated in a large shopping plaza, finding a spot here is incredibly easy with a massive, free parking lot.
- Vibe: Convenient suburban location with the same great food.
- Nearby: Close to the Kanata Centrum shopping area and the tech campus area.
Barrhaven
3500 Fallowfield Road, Nepean, ON K2J 4A7
The newest location, serving the growing Barrhaven community in Ottawa’s southwest.
- Hours: Sun–Thu: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Fri–Sat: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Parking: Much like the Kanata and Orleans locations, the Barrhaven restaurant is located in a retail plaza that provides plenty of free, shared parking.
- Vibe: Modern, clean, and always welcoming.
- Nearby: Part of the Barrhaven shopping corridor with various retail and dining options.
Complete Menu & Prices: What to Order and How Much It Costs
The Works menu is massive, with burgers typically ranging from $19.50 to $28.75, which usually includes a choice of one side like fresh-cut fries, “weeds” (their term for salad), or die-cut chips. Prices are higher than typical fast food, but the quality and portion size justify the premium.
Signature Burgers (Pre-Designed Creations)
The Works offers dozens of signature burgers, each with its own unique combination of toppings and sauces. Here are some of the most popular:
| Item | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Taste of Heaven | $28.75 | The premium option featuring Wagyu beef, candied bacon, caramelized onions, arugula, and their signature W sauce. This is the ultimate Works experience. |
| The Tragically Maple | $27.50 | A Canadian classic piled high with maple bacon jam, candied bacon, potato stix, cheese curds, and arugula. This is arguably the most “Ottawa” burger on the menu. |
| Juicy Lucy | $25.25 | A cheese-stuffed beef patty that oozes molten cheese when you bite into it, topped with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and red onions. A fan favourite for cheese lovers. |
| Sk8r Boy | $23.00 | A surprisingly delicious, quirky combination of peanut butter, Monterey Jack cheese, and bacon. Yes, peanut butter on a burger—and it works! |
| The Big Works Smash Burger | $21.75 | Double smash patties, double cheddar, W sauce, pickles, and onions for those who prefer the crispy edges of a smashed patty. |
| Elk About It | $26.50 | For something different—elk patty with wild mushroom confit, blue cheese, and truffle aioli. A gourmet choice. |
| The Nashville | $24.00 | Nashville hot chicken with pickles and spicy mayo on a chicken breast patty. |
| Classic Bacon Cheeseburger | $21.00 | Sometimes you can’t go wrong with the basics. |
Build Your Own Burger
The real fun is building your own creation. Here’s how the pricing works:
| Component | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Signature Beef | Base price | The classic Works burger patty |
| Wagyu Beef | +$6 | Premium beef option |
| Elk | +$7 | Game meat option |
| Turkey | +$0 | Leaner option |
| Chicken | +$0 | Grilled or crispy |
| Beyond Meat | +$3 | Plant-based |
| Add Cheese | +$1.50 | Various options |
| Add Bacon | +$3 | Candied or regular |
| Add Egg | +$2.50 | Fried or poached |
| Special Toppings | +$2-4 | Various gourmet options |
Sides & Starters
| Item | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Tower-O-Rings | $15.00 | A massive stack of crispy onion rings—legendary! This is a must-order. Share with the table. |
| Poutine | $10.50 | Classic Canadian poutine with cheese curds and gravy. |
| Sweet Potato Fries | $8.00 | Crispy and delicious alternative to regular fries. |
| Regular Fries | $6.50 | Fresh-cut fries, crispy and satisfying. |
| Die-Chip Chips | $6.50 | Thick-cut tortilla chips. |
| House Salad (“Weeds”) | $8.00 | Fresh greens with house dressing. |
| Milkshakes | ~$10.50 | Thick, rich, and perfectly sweet. Various flavours available. |
Drinks
| Item | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Craft Beer (Draft) | $7-12 | Rotating selection from Ontario breweries |
| Cocktails | $12-16 | Various craft cocktails |
| House Wine | $8-12 | Red, white, or rosé |
| Soft Drinks | $3-4 | Coke products |
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary slightly by location. These are typical menu prices as of early 2026.
What Reddit Says: Local Opinions
I checked r/Ottawa threads to get the unvarnished local perspective on The Works:
What Redditors consistently recommend:
- Tower-O-Rings are a must-try — nearly every thread mentions these as an essential appetizer
- The Sk8r Boy is surprisingly good — the peanut butter/bacon combination is weird but works
- Weeknight visits are better — Friday/Saturday nights can have long waits
- The Glebe location is the classic experience — but all locations are solid
What people complain about:
- Prices have increased — many feel the quality-to-price ratio has decreased
- Long waits on weekends — be prepared for 30+ minute waits on Friday/Saturday nights
- Inconsistent quality by location — some say the suburbs aren’t as good as the Glebe
- Dried-out patties occasionally — some users report getting overcooked patties
Pro Tips from Local Fans
Customize Your Patty
Don’t be afraid to ask for your patty medium-rare (if you dare)—but note that The Works cooks well-done by default to adhere to Canadian food safety standards for ground beef. If you want it any other way, you’ll need to specifically request it, and some locations may be more accommodating than others.
Start with the Onion Rings
The Tower-O-Rings are not just an appetizer—they’re a rite of passage. Get them. They’re massive, crispy, and absolutely delicious. Perfect for sharing (or not—we won’t judge).
Try the Milkshakes
Their classic milkshakes are thick, rich, and the perfect complement to a massive burger. The “2001 Shake Odyssey” is a popular choice, but all flavours are worth trying.
Visit on Weeknights
Friday and Saturday nights can get incredibly busy with long waits. For a quicker experience, go on a weeknight. The food will be just as good, and you won’t have to wait as long.
Order the “Tragically Maple” If You’re Adventurous
This burger has become iconic in Ottawa. Maple bacon jam, cheese curds, and potato stix—it’s a Canadian flavour explosion that you won’t find anywhere else.
Check for Specials
The Works occasionally runs specials and promotions. Check their website or social media before your visit to see if there are any deals.
Ottawa Neighbourhoods Near The Works: What Else to Do
The Glebe Location
Located in the heart of The Glebe neighbourhood, one of Ottawa’s most vibrant areas. After getting your burger, explore:
- Lansdowne Park: Home of the Ottawa Farmers’ Market on Sundays
- Bank Street: Lined with boutique shops and cafes
- Fifth Avenue: Access to the Rideau Canal for a scenic walk
- ** TD Place:** Ottawa’s sports and entertainment venue
Westboro Location
After your meal, check out:
- Westboro Beach: Popular sandy beach along the Ottawa River
- Dominion Avenue: Shopping and dining options
- Ottawa River Pathway: Great for a post-meal walk or bike ride
The Competition: How The Works Stands Out
Ottawa has no shortage of great burger spots, from fast-food chains to gourmet establishments. Here’s how The Works compares:
| Feature | The Works | Fast Food | Other Gourmet Burgers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $$ | $ | $$$ |
| Portion Size | Massive | Standard | Large |
| Customization | Nearly endless | Limited | Moderate |
| Atmosphere | Industrial/brewpub | Casual | Varies |
| Craft Beer | Yes | No | Sometimes |
| Unique Items | Yes (peanut butter, wagyu, elk) | No | Occasionally |
For more local burger recommendations, check out our Best Burgers Ottawa Guide. The Works stands out for:
- Massive portions: You’ll definitely leave full—maybe even with leftovers
- Industrial vibe: Unique atmosphere you won’t find elsewhere in Ottawa
- Craft beer selection: Lives up to the “Craft Burgers & Beer” name
- Customization: Nearly endless combinations
- Local origin: Born and raised in Ottawa
- Signature items: The Tragically Maple and Tower-O-Rings are iconic
Accessibility: What You Need to Know
The Works locations generally offer standard accessibility features:
- Ground floor seating: All locations are at ground level with accessible entrances
- Parking: Suburban locations (Orléans, Kanata, Barrhaven) have dedicated parking lots with accessible spaces
- Washrooms: Accessible washrooms available at all locations
The downtown Glebe location can be more challenging for accessibility due to the older building and limited space, but the staff are usually helpful. For specific accessibility needs at a particular location, calling ahead is recommended.
FAQ
Q: Does The Works have vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes! You can choose plant-based Beyond Meat patties, and there are plenty of vegetarian topping options. The menu clearly marks vegetarian items.
Q: Can I customize my burger toppings?
Absolutely—that’s the whole point! You can build your own or choose from their signature creations. Nearly 70 combinations are available as pre-designed options, or create your own.
Q: Do they serve alcohol?
Yes! The Works Craft Burgers & Beer features a selection of craft beers from Ontario breweries, as well as cocktails and wine.
Q: Are the portions really that big?
Yes! The portions are notoriously huge. Consider sharing an appetizer or saving half for later. The Tower-O-Rings alone can feed two people easily.
Q: Which location has the best parking?
The Kanata, Barrhaven, and Orleans locations all offer free, ample parking in shopping plazas. The Glebe and Westboro locations are more challenging for parking, with limited street parking and paid lots nearby.
Q: What is the “W Sauce”?
It’s The Works’ signature sauce—a closely guarded recipe that’s used on several signature burgers. It’s creamy, tangy, and absolutely delicious.
Q: Can I get The Works delivered?
Yes, they’re available on Uber Eats, DoorDash, and other delivery platforms. Note that delivery apps usually add a 10-20% markup, and the food is best enjoyed fresh in the restaurant.
Q: Do they accommodate dietary restrictions?
They try their best with advance notice. Gluten-free buns are sometimes available, and they can often accommodate other dietary needs. It’s best to call ahead for specific requirements.
Q: Are there kid-friendly options?
The Works is more of an adult-oriented experience, but they do offer simpler burger options that kids can enjoy. The casual atmosphere is generally family-friendly.
Final Thoughts
The Works isn’t just a burger restaurant—it’s a piece of Ottawa’s culinary identity. Whether you’re a burger enthusiast looking to try something new, a family looking for a fun dining experience, or just someone who appreciates a good craft beer, The Works delivers an experience that’s uniquely Ottawa.
The combination of that industrial aesthetic, the massive customizable menu, the craft beer selection, and the commitment to quality has kept locals coming back for over two decades. Yes, there might be a wait on weekend nights—especially at the flagship Glebe location—but that’s part of the ritual.
And honestly? A Taste of Heaven burger with Tower-O-Rings on the side is worth every minute of waiting. The Tragically Maple is a must-try for anyone wanting to experience Canadian flavours at their most indulgent. And the Sk8r Boy? Trust the process—peanut butter and bacon are a match made in burger heaven.
The Works has earned its place as one of Ottawa’s most beloved burger destinations. It’s the kind of place that makes Ottawa locals proud—a homegrown success story that continues to deliver creative, satisfying burgers to this day.
Pro tip: Follow The Works on social media to see what’s new on the menu. They regularly introduce limited-time creations that are worth trying, and their seasonal specials often feature locally-sourced ingredients.
Sources: The Works official sources, local Ottawa food communities, Google Reviews, Reddit r/ottawa
