ABOUT US
OUR STORY — SINCE 1986
Ottawa’s diner since 1986. It started with a simple idea: a proper diner where anyone could get an all-day breakfast, a burger done right, and a milkshake worth talking about. Nearly four decades later, not much has changed — the booths are still teal, the jukebox still plays, and the shakes are still world-famous.
Locally world famous. From one diner in the ByWard Market to five across the capital — plus a spot past security at the airport — Zak’s has fed a few generations of Ottawa: first dates, last calls, road-trip breakfasts and everything between.
Proudly Canadian. Canadian potatoes, pure Canadian maple syrup, Canadian eggs and St-Albert curds. Real food from close to home.
Come hungry, leave happy. That’s been the deal since day one. In 2026 we turn 40 — and you’re invited.
Now get yourself in here!
SUSTAINABILITY
At Zak’s Diner we are committed to making a positive impact on the environment while delighting our customers. From farm-to-table ingredients sourced locally to minimizing food waste through innovative practices, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Our menu features a delicious array of dishes made with organic and seasonal produce, supporting local farmers and reducing carbon footprint. We strive to reduce single-use plastics by using eco-friendly packaging and implementing recycling initiatives. Join us in our mission to savor our diner favourites while preserving our planet for future generations. Your dining experience at Zak’s is not only satisfying but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable world.
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![A top-down view of dozen brown eggs arranged in a cardboard egg carton.]()
locally sourced eggs
Our eggs are locally sourced from Bunbrae Farms, Their hens are free to roam in open concept barns equipped with nests, perches and dust bathing areas. There is ample access to both feed and water.
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we recycle
We prioritize sustainability by recycling plastic, glass, metal and cardboard. By minimizing waste and actively participating in responsible recycling practices, we strive to make a positive impact on our environment.
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![A yellow basket filled with cracked and whole brown and white eggs in an outdoor setting.]()
Compost
All our food scraps, food waste and organic material is processed and converted into high-grade compost used by commercial landscapers and home gardeners to enhance their soil, and by engineers and contractors to control erosion.
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Diversity & Inclusion
Employment with Zak’s offers everyone equal rights, and career development and promotion prospects, regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, disability or religion. We ensure as far as possible that the diversity of our teams reflects the diversity of the customers we serve.
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![Young girl holding two eggs in front of her eyes, making a playful expression.]()
Community engagement
Engaging with our communities is our passion. We are partnered with the ONFE - School Breakfast Program, which provides nutritional meals to youth in need. and hold an annual pancake day fundraiser day, where all pancakes sales are donated to ONFE.
Ottawa’s Diner Since 1986.
We’re Locally World-Famous!
You’ll feel right at home the moment you walk through our doors. Rediscover that classic diner experience—the fun, the great food, the amazing service—just the way you remember it.
OUR LOCATIONS
