The Laff
The Laff is a restaurant located in the ByWard Market area of Ottawa, featuring wooden tables, soft lighting, and simple, inviting decor. The menu includes burgers, sandwiches, and snacks paired with a selection of soft drinks and local beers, all served in a casual space designed for relaxed dining.
The Laff was established in 1849 as Grant's Hotel, making it the oldest tavern in Ottawa. The building served as shelter for people seeking safety during the Stony Monday riots, an early episode in the city's history.
The Laff functions as a gathering place where locals drop in to meet friends, catch up with coworkers, and share meals after work or leisure activities. People view it as part of their neighborhood routine, a familiar spot embedded in the fabric of daily life in Ottawa.
The Laff is located in the busy ByWard Market area and remains open every day of the year, making it a reliable stop. The restaurant stays open late, making it convenient for visitors exploring nearby shops or entertainment in the evenings.
The Laff features the oldest neon sign in Ottawa, installed in 1936 and protected by law, which continues to light the street each night. Once removed, this sign cannot be reinstalled, making it a permanent symbol of the restaurant's long presence in the city.
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