Exit Lounge

Stepping into a local spot and realizing it’s so much more than what you expected is one of the best parts of exploring your own city. That’s exactly the feeling I got when discovering the incredible Exit Lounge tucked away in Ottawa’s west end. Imagine this: a night out that starts with the smooth glide of a roller skate across a shining floor, filled with the upbeat energy of classic hits and the laughter of friends, and then transitions seamlessly into a truly upscale dining experience. That’s the magic the team at Exit Lounge and its partner, Skate & Play, have created. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s an immersive destination. With bright, stylish decor, a vibrant, modern atmosphere, and the irresistible scent of delicious food wafting from the kitchen, it instantly feels like the perfect place to make memories, whether you’re celebrating a milestone or just enjoying a midweek escape. It’s a true double-threat—pure fun and phenomenal food, all under one roof.

About Exit Lounge

Located inside the lively Skate & Play facility at 1101 Baxter Road, Exit Lounge has quickly become a must-visit spot in Ottawa. This isn’t your average rink-side snack bar; it’s a modern, elevated eatery boasting a dedicated, award-winning chef. The venue masterfully blends a sleek, inviting ambiance with the playful energy of the entertainment surrounding it. From the moment you walk through the doors, you can tell that the focus here is on delivering a premium experience, from the hospitality of the staff to the creativity on the plate. It’s the kind of place that welcomes everyone—families, couples on a unique date night, and groups of friends looking for a lively scene.

The Experience

What makes Exit Lounge so exciting is its complete embrace of the experience economy. While the roller skating rink and arcade games at Skate & Play offer endless fun, the restaurant is an inviting oasis where you can refuel, relax, and savor genuinely incredible food. The atmosphere is upscale yet approachable, featuring an upbeat vibe that’s perfect for settling in after an exhilarating skate session. Picture yourself unwinding at a beautifully set table, the energy from the rink providing a unique, cheerful backdrop as you dive into a starter of creative and comforting fare. The entire experience feels deliberate and carefully curated, making it so easy to spend an entire afternoon or evening here without ever running out of things to see, do, or eat.

Why You Should Go

Exit Lounge isn’t just surviving the competitive Ottawa restaurant scene—it’s thriving by offering a complete package. Here are the 3 key highlights that make this destination a top recommendation for your next outing:

• Culinary Excellence from an Award-Winning Chef: This is not your typical pub fare. The team at Exit Lounge is led by an award-winning chef who crafts a culinary journey for guests, serving up delightful dishes that range from comforting classics to innovative, refined creations. The quality and creativity in the kitchen are evident in every bite.

• A Hub for Fantastic Events and Gatherings: Exit Lounge is a prime spot for social events, from private weddings and large celebrations to its popular weekly offerings. A major draw is the highly-recommended All You Can Eat Wednesday Wing Day (with the purchase of an alcoholic beverage), which turns a regular weeknight into a festive, delicious feast.

• Unique and Practical Meal Prep Services: Looking for quality food on the go? In a fantastic move for the community, Exit Lounge offers dedicated meal preparation services. This is a brilliant option for those looking to save time, eat better, and/or consistently reach their fitness goals with chef-prepared, healthy meals.

The Must-Try Dish

While the entire menu promises an adventure for the taste buds, the one dish that truly demands your attention is the Shrimp Mac n Cheese. This is comfort food taken to a decadent new level. The combination of rich, creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and succulent shrimp creates a main course that is both deeply satisfying and refined. To start your meal, you absolutely must try the Pesto Feta Dip. It’s the perfect vibrant, zesty, and savory appetizer to share, setting the stage for the flavorful feast to come. These two items alone are reason enough to book your next reservation!

Exit Lounge in Ottawa is a true local treasure that offers an experience unlike any other in the city. By seamlessly blending the high-energy fun of roller skating and arcade games with a sophisticated, award-winning dining experience, it has created a unique and memorable destination. Whether you’re craving elevated comfort food, planning a large party, or just looking for a new spot to grab healthy meal prep for the week, Exit Lounge delivers on all fronts. Stop settling for a single-focus outing! Embrace the delicious fun.

Ready to roll and dine? Head over to Exit Lounge at 1101 Baxter Rd to reserve your table or grab your skates. You deserve a night out that’s this much fun!