Hello dear
Welcome To Monique Haitian Food
Monique Haitian Food offers an authentic taste of Haiti nestled in the basement of an Italian restaurant on Preston Street in Ottawa. Renowned for its generous portions and rich flavors, this hidden gem serves unforgettable dishes such as Pikliz, crispy plantains, and tender goat meat (Kabrit) in sauce, which customers rave about. The warm, welcoming atmosphere is complemented by attentive service, making each experience feel like a homecoming. With its focus on delicious, traditional cuisine over flashy decor, Monique Haitian Food is a must-visit for anyone craving a true taste of Haitian culture. Come hungry, leave happy!
Taste the best
Discover Our Menu
Rice And Beans/Riz Colle
CA$10.00Cola Choucoune
CA$3.00Chicken/Poulet
CA$20.00
Fish/Poisson
CA$30.00Goat/Cabrit
CA$25.00Ragout
CA$20.00
Beef/Boeuf
CA$25.00Legumes
CA$20.00Lalo
CA$20.00 About
Monique Haitian Food
Welcome to Monique Haitian Food, a hidden gem nestled in the basement of an Italian restaurant at 416 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1S 4M9. While it may take a bit of searching to find, patrons agree that the quest is well worth it. This unique dining spot invites you into an immersive culinary experience that showcases the rich flavors and vibrant culture of Haiti.
As you step inside, you are greeted not by ostentation, but by a warm, humble setting that puts the spotlight where it matters most—on the irresistible food. Reviews from enthusiastic customers paint a picture of a menu bursting with flavor and generous portions. One delighted diner, Aidan Fox, extols the virtues of the pikliz—a spicy pickled vegetable relish—that pairs beautifully with the succulent meats and fluffy rice dishes.
Monique's signature offerings include the kabrit (goat), which is praised for its tenderness and rich flavor. Another fan favorite, the riz collé, is described as soft and fluffy—better than any competitors as far as one customer is concerned. The plantains are not just a side; they elevate the meal, providing a crispy contrast that resonates deeply with those familiar with Haitian cuisine. Kevin P., another rave reviewer, notes the perfect seasoning of the mac salad and the remarkable balance of flavors that keeps him coming back for more.
But the joy of Monique Haitian Food doesn't stop at the savory offerings. Desserts also hold a special place. Customers like Sarah Stephanie Georges express how much they cherish the Haitian cakes, creating a sweet conclusion to a delightful meal. The cakes, often described as unique and flavorful, add a touch of home, making each visit feel like a warm embrace.
Despite its underground location and limited seating, the service shines brightly. Diners have frequently praised the friendly staff, who work diligently to ensure that each meal is not just food, but an experience. From accommodating special requests to sharing a laugh, the team at Monique's makes every visit memorable.
In a world where presentation often overshadows flavor, Monique Haitian Food is a refreshing reminder that true culinary artistry resides in the taste and heart of the dish. If you're in Ottawa and in search of authentic Caribbean cuisine, make your way to this culinary sanctuary. Not only will you enjoy phenomenal food, but you'll also leave with the warmth of Haitian hospitality and possibly a new favorite food destination.
So, whether you're a longstanding aficionado of Haitian flavors or a newcomer eager to explore, Monique Haitian Food offers a delightful introduction to a culture rich with spices, passion, and cooking tradition. Pick up the phone and dial +1 613-301-6526 to order, or take a chance and find your way to this basement haven; you won't be disappointed.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ The food was really tasty. The plantain and rice were fresh. I didn’t get pasta salad or salad (they probably ran out) but replaced it with additional plantain which I didn’t mind. The only area of improvement was how fatty the griot was. Multiple pieces weren’t edible because it was skin and fat which was disappointing. ”
“ This is the best of the best. The food is soooo Good and service is amazing !!! It’s a taste of home away from home! thank you Monique! I am back after a year or two of ordering quite regularly from Monique . The consistency of the taste , the generous portion and the friendly and efficient communication ! Nothing to complain ! I love my lambi and my Fritay but more then anything the cakes ! ”
“ I am relatively knew to the Haitian culinary experience. I have been enjoying the Haitian culture for about 3 years now. I thought the closest place to get good true Haitian besides my wife's cooking was in Montreal but I was wrong. I called and ordered the Tasso kabrit (deep fried Goat) but I wanted the Kabrit nan sòs which is not on the menu but this wonderful staff got it for me after just asking if they had any sauce! It is located in the basement of an Italian restaurant, which if you know the culture know this is where the best most true to country Haitian food is made. They focus on the food not the presentation of the building. The Meal was only 28$ taxes in... This is nothing since it makes up 2-3 full meals. Very generous portions! Now the food, this was the best damn kabrit nan sòs I've ever had! Kabrit nan sòs 11/10 (goat in sauce) Diri ak Pwa 5/10 (Traditional Haitian rice with beans) Salade betrave 8/10 (beat/potato salad) Bannann fri 6/10 (Fried Plantains) Pikliz 10/10 (Spicy Pickled Vegetable Relish) Haitian Cake ?/10 (Pineapple Cake) This kabrit was absolutely amazing, nothing wrong, smell, taste, look it had it all! The Diri was dry but tasty, I ordered an hour before close so my ranking isn't fair since it was no doubt cooked earlier which I completely understand and I would be willing to bet its amazing earlier in the day! The Beat salad was very good no complaints. The Plantains were different here, they were good in a whole different way then what I was use to, these were almost like fries, dry and crunchy instead of softy and chewy VERY GOOD when dipped in the kabrit sauce. The Pikliz, damn this was good, some places have spicy but not tasty, some have tasty but not spicy this place makes a spicy and tasty one, I like mixing it into my rice along with the goat sauce! As for the Cake I didn't rate it because I've never had anything like that before and idk if its good or not. I liked it and I'm not a fan of fruits in my pastries so hopefully that helps you out. I would absolutely go here again and highly recommend it to others! Staff was patient enough with me learning Kreyol and a blast to talk to, food was excellent and over all great experience! Edit: My wife says the Cake is amazing. We go here roughly every 2 weeks now. ”
“ The best for Caribbean food in Ottawa. In the basement of the Italian restaurant (Del P...). - Kabrit (Goat), was soft and fresh, dipped in the gravy had great flavour. - Mac salad had a unique seasoning, plantains crispy, both were really excellent. - The riz collé (rice and beans) was soft and fluffy and better than any Jamaican spot I've been in Toronto. Portion was enough for 2 meals. Highly rated, only downside is they don't have a proper sitdown. ”
“ It’s a humble location and a bit hard to find because it’s in the basement of another restaurant so you have to access it from the back of the building. But the absolutely amazing food makes up for it, the portions are great sizes too. I am always impressed with the pikliz and sauce for the food and of course the plantain! The meat and rice are also so good, there is nothing bad to say about this food, it is always fantastic. This is definitely my favourite Haitian food in the city, I would recommend the goat. ”