Blue Cactus Bar and Grill

Been coming to this place for years, every time we visit Ottawa

I can remember when the Blue Cactus first open. This place was the place to visit in Byward. Wow, have things changed. This place is "tired". The passion seems gone. Food, Service, and atmosphere are just going a maintaining attitude. I had one of the burgers, it was bland, dry and just ok. I think that it is time for the Blue Cactus to close, renovate, update the menu, and come back with a renewed passion. Otherwise, it may be another decade before I visit again as there are simply better choices.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 3

Service: 3

We had finished eating at another resturant in the Market and were going to catch an Uber when a fight broke out between about 10 or 12 young men on the street. It was quite violent and shocking and my female cousin and I were frightened so we entered the Blue Cactus. James ( my cousin thinks his name was Johnathan) a server there took pity on us and walked us to where we could catch and uber and waited with us until it showed up. It was very gallant and kind of him. He should be awarded employee of the month, heck the year!!!! Thank you so much James. Next time I'm in Ottawa I will be heading to the Blue Cactus.

Had such a great experience thanks to our server Sean! He walked us through their new menu items and gave us great recommendations on their new food and drink options. He was super friendly and elevated our experience - really appreciate his care and friendly demeanour.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

Had a great time there celebrating a friend's birthday. The service was so good, friendly helpful. The chimichanga was so yummy.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Chimichanga

Honestly very mediocre food; the taco I had was dry and bland. The service was very friendly, though.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 3

Service: 5

I recently visited Blue Cactus and had a generally positive experience with the service. Servers were attentive, friendly, and efficient. However, there was one major issue that marred our evening.

Unfortunately, an older gentleman (who appeared to be the manager) exhibited appalling behavior towards both the servers and other customers. His actions were completely unacceptable, including yelling and being rude to other employees and customers.

Despite this individual's disturbing behavior, the servers maintained their professionalism and courtesy. They deserve commendation for handling the situation with grace.

To the management, I suggest taking steps to address this issue. Ensuring a welcoming environment for all customers should be a top priority.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 4

Service: 4

This place is a TOURIST TRAP, BEWARE!
Food was positively foul, the restaurant was filthy, the floors are all sticky, as are the tables.
The bathroom was so disgusting, it's one of the dirtiest I've seen in my life, and one of the worst in the entire city. (I've lived in Ottawa my whole life)

The service was great, but that's where it ends.
Stay away, the prices are insane and when you receive your food, it will be inedible "matter".

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 5

Good restaurant with friendly waitress and servers. We had very good service. Our burgers were succulent and the fries delicious and cooked to perfection. The cocktails ? are perfect ? and the Sangria too. I highly recommend it!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Bad margaritas

We weren't there to eat, just to end the day with a few drinks. Nice bar at ByWard Market. Friendly staff, good service.

Atmosphere: 4

Service: 4

Extremely rude staff

Atmosphere: 1

Service: 1

Started our night here for girls night has natchos and fajitas for dinner and everything was good. Prices are fair for the quality and being downtown. The atmosphere wa a good place to start the night.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 4

What a wonderful birthday meal I had yesterday. An outstanding club sandwich (and I know my club sandwiches) plus my wife and I agree, the best French fries we've ever had.

Service was bang on, attentive yet not intrusive.

Thank you Blue Cactus!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Fries

The place was not busy, but somehow the service was so slow. Took forever for the food to come out. Food was just average. I ordered 1/2 rack of ribs, and they probably came from a most malnourished cow ever. Still hungry after my meal :(

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 3

Service: 2