Taking a break from condos and homes in the Byward Market, here is a quick rundown on places that I recommend for great food in this touristy neighborhood.
For an excellent dinner experience, here are some places that I would highly recommend:
Murray Street – A definite hidden gem, this place does not disappoint. With numerous locally-sourced ingredients, there are some most delicious plates on this menu. They are known for their charcuterie, and some rich pork dishes. The courtyard at this place in the summertime is a very cool spot as well.
http://murraystreet.ca : 110 Murray St, Ottawa. 613 562 7244
Brothers Beer Bistro – Just like you would expect, they offer an excellent list of local and imported beers; draft and bottle. Plenty of great options for beer connoisseurs. The food menu is also quite well done. They have some very tasty dishes, all very rich in flavor. The burger is also quite good, but at $20 it is certainly on the high side.
http://www.brothersbeerbistro.ca/ – 366 Dalhousie St, Ottawa. 613 695 6300
If you’re looking for a decent sports bar, then the Byward Market is definitely for you.
Real Sports – These guys have redefined sports bars for good. There are 99 TV screens in this place if that’s indication of what it’s like. And one of them is a 30 foot screen. Yes, that’s a big screen. As for the food and drink, in my opinion it is quite good. Obviously you didn’t come here expecting a mind-blowing dining experience 
Real Sports has taken your favorite sports bar dishes and made them even better with their own twist on everything.
http://realsports.ca/BarAndGrill/ottawa/ : 90 George St, Ottawa. 613 680 7325
The Senate – A local favorite, this place offers a great atmosphere for watching sports, drinking beer, and eating your favorite pub fare. Pricing is reasonable, and the food is quite good.
http://www.thesenate.ca/ – 33 Clarence St, Ottawa. 613 695 5523
For lunches and brunches, here are a couple great options.
El Furniture Warehouse – I had to mention these guys because of their $4.95 menu. Everything on the menu is $4.95. Yes, everything. And I know what you’re thinking; it’s gotta be terrible. But it isn’t. And of course, it’s not gourmet fancy dishes, but hey, for the price its pretty hard to beat. So go in and order a few plates; it’s great bang for the buck. And be warned that they have a pretty serious drink list, and the servers will be pushing you to order 1 or 2.
El Furniture Warehouse Ottawa – 77 Clarence St, Ottawa. 613 695 1771
La Bottega – This is another somewhat hidden gem. Right on George street next to the entrance to the Bay, this locally owned shop has some amazing sandwiches for $5. Pick your own buns/breads, meats, toppings, etc, and you get a huge sandwich with fresh ingredients, at a great price. There are some tables to eat at outside, and also an area to stay in and eat. For good food on the go, La Bottega is excellent.
http://www.labottega.ca/ – 64 George St, Ottawa. 613 789 7575
Some other great options for food in the Market:
http://www.sidedoorrestaurant.com/