Ottawa's Ek Bar, a new upscale Indian restaurant opened in the spring of 2025, is set to close its doors. The eatery, located on Preston Street, was founded by Toronto restaurateur Hemant Bhagwani with the goal of bringing high-end Indian cuisine to the city. Despite its ambitious start, the restaurant has not managed to sustain its operations beyond one year.
The decision to shut down comes as the restaurant navigates the challenges of establishing itself in a competitive dining scene. Bhagwani, known for his previous ventures in Toronto, had hoped to create a unique dining experience in Ottawa. However, factors such as market demand, operational costs, and customer preferences may have contributed to the closure.
No official details have been released regarding the restaurant’s future plans or any potential relocation. The closure marks another shift in Ottawa’s restaurant landscape, reflecting the ongoing challenges faced by new establishments in the city. The impact on local dining options remains to be seen.
