The Laff

4.4 ( 1913 reviews )
Checking... 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM See Hours
42 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S6, Canada
+1 613-241-4747
Nestled in the heart of Ottawa at 42 York St, The Laff—a historic tavern dating back before 1849—offers a vibrant blend of nostalgia and contemporary bar culture. Renowned for its cozy ambiance and eclectic clientele, it is a haven for locals and visitors alike. Patrons rave about the friendly service, particularly highlighting staff like Charly, who add a personal touch to every visit. The Laff's menu is simple yet satisfying, featuring crowd-pleasing dishes including the glorious poutine—rich, cheesy, and topped with savory gravy. Classic mains like the Cheeseburger and Chicken BLT Sandwich come served with golden fries, making it a perfect pairing with their impressive selection of local draughts and tall cans. Reviews consistently laud the overall atmosphere, complemented by live music that creates an uplifting vibe. Regulars such as Roy Lawrence note the camaraderie among guests, stating it’s impossible not to strike up conversations in this lively setting. Whether for casual drinks, live performances, or simply to enjoy the historic charm, The Laff embodies a spirited local bar experience that feels welcoming and nostalgic, making it a must-visit in Ottawa’s Byward Market. So raise a glass of local craft beer and indulge in memorable culinary delights at this treasured establishment.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • From the business
    • Identifies as women-owned
  • Service options
    • Has outdoor seating
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
    • No delivery
    • On-site services not available
  • Highlights
    • Has bar games
    • Has great beer selection
    • Serves great cocktails
    • Has live music
    • Has live performances
    • Good for watching sport
  • Popular for
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves beer
    • Serves cocktails
    • Has dancing
    • Serves food
    • Serves food at bar
    • Serves happy-hour food
    • Serves spirits
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has toilet
    • Has Wi-Fi
    • Free Wi-Fi
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Good for groups
    • LGBTQ+ friendly
    • Popular with tourists
    • Transgender safe space
  • Planning
    • Doesn't accept reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • Paid multi-storey car park
    • Paid parking lot
    • Paid street parking

Reviews For The Laff

Roy Lawrence
May 30,2025
Because if CoVid and travel restrictions, it’s been a while since we could make it to the Laff. Had to take our daughter now that she was old enough to see The Lucky Ron show. Had a great time! A couple Big Labatt 50’s, couple drafts, poutine, and snacks. They bought a hat to commentate the outing. Always a great time at the Laff. We always seem to strike up conversations with the people there. Such a friendly spot. You can’t help but have a good time. I remember some of the same customers from 3 years ago! A year later stopped back again with other daughter and boyfriend. Another great time. Lucky Ron, Large beers, and Kathy!! Super great atmosphere, great bartenders. Eclectic crowd, just fun.
Meysam Arshadi
May 28,2025
Lovely staff, amazing vibe, and wonderful customers! I was visiting Ottawa and stumbled upon The Laff by pure chance. Charly, in particular, was incredibly kind and attentive. If you are looking for human interaction, The Laff is your place. Such a great experience!
Joseph Beatty
May 16,2025
The Laff in Ottawa was a cool oldest pub here with a cozy atmosphere and delicious poutine and refreshing cider beer. The poutine is perfectly cheesy and has a savory gravy on the fries. The cider beer on tap compliments it with a crisp, fruity taste. Finally the music of the longtime musician was great as he’d sing many classic American songs. Was a great place to go and hang out!!
Mark Denee
May 10,2025
Best bar in Ottawa for casual drinks and live music! Love the atmosphere and the bowl of nuts 'n' things.
Seeing the world In a different way
May 2,2025
Located at 42 York st., in the heart of the Byward market, you will find Ottawa's oldest running tavern, the Chateau Lafayette House 'the Laff'. This Lowertown former hotel / brothel/ outlet store and long time tavern is a historic landmark dating back to before 1849. The Laff would have served Canada's founding fathers of Confederation (like Sir John A MacDonald), the Irish, French, Scottish and British craftsmen who lived and built the Rideau canal and Bytown buildings. Today (prior to covid) you can go inside, sit with a mix with folk ranging from the regular area people to celebrities like Dan Aykroyd. So come and enjoy a cold local draft beer, or a quart of 50 with some simple bar food while listening to some great live music. Btw, The prices are great too. If you like my reviews, photos or videos please give them a thumbs up. Enjoy your time in Lowertown in the Byward market..
El Ghali Hajjam
Apr 27,2025
Apparently the oldest pub in Ottawa. I really liked that authentic and root atmosphere. Had some drinks in the bar with a friend, Dj woman was spinning some good records next to us. Loved it !
Parastoo Azizi
Apr 14,2025
Love the old character and the great ambiance of this place. The little pictures and paintings here and there are wonderful. The bartender was professional and friendly. The burger and smoked meat sandwich were both amazing! And we tried some new beer that we loved as well. Highly recommended.
Debbie Ofomola
Mar 4,2025
First time in Ottawa and I discovered this bar via IG. I was there on a Monday night and the atmosphere was relaxing. Not sure what the band name is but they were awesome. I went back on Wednesday night and it wasn’t as nice regarding the music...it was quite “funeral-esque”. Still nice environment to sit and have a beer. Bartenders were friendly also.

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