For nearly four decades, Zak’s Diner has been woven into the fabric of Ottawa.
Whether it was a late-night stop after a night out in the ByWard Market, a weekend breakfast with family, or a milkshake craving that couldn’t wait, generations of Ottawans have their own Zak’s story. Since opening its doors in 1986, the local diner has become one of the city’s most recognizable restaurant brands, serving comfort food with a side of nostalgia.
Now, Zak’s is opening a new chapter in an unexpected place: the Ottawa International Airport.
The iconic diner has officially opened a new location inside YOW’s Canada and International departures area, giving travellers the chance to enjoy an Ottawa institution before takeoff or after landing. Located past security near Gate 24, the restaurant brings many of the menu items that made the brand famous to one of the city’s busiest transportation hubs.
The move is part of a broader effort by the airport to create a more local experience for travellers passing through Canada’s capital. Rather than relying solely on national chains, YOW has been working to introduce recognizable Ottawa brands that reflect the city’s character and food culture. Zak’s joins a growing list of local concepts that now call the airport home.
For many visitors, the airport is their first and last impression of a city. Bringing an Ottawa staple into that space gives travellers a taste of the capital before they even leave the terminal. For residents, it means one more place to grab a familiar breakfast, burger, poutine, or one of Zak’s signature hand-spun milkshakes before heading to their gate. The airport location also features a full bar program alongside the diner’s classic comfort-food menu.
The space itself was designed to feel familiar to longtime fans. According to airport officials, the restaurant incorporates retro diner elements inspired by Zak’s existing locations, including neon accents, classic seating, and design details that pay tribute to the brand’s longstanding identity.
The opening represents more than just another restaurant location. It marks the latest milestone in the airport’s ongoing modernization efforts, which have included new retail concepts, expanded passenger amenities, the opening of the airport’s O-Train station, and the recently launched ALT Hotel connected to the terminal.
For a restaurant that has spent decades serving Ottawa residents, the move feels fitting. Every day, thousands of travellers pass through YOW on their way to destinations around the world. Now, one of Ottawa’s most recognizable diners will be there to greet them.
Not bad for a local diner that started in the ByWard Market nearly 40 years ago.