Our Story

The Pelican remains family owned and operated with multiple generations of fishmongers involved in operations on a day-to-day basis.

The Fish Market opened on Merivale Road back in 1978 and for over 40 years we have been committed to our founder Gilles Roy’s mission: “to serve our customers: superior quality seafood, friendly service and good value.” Pelican opened in its present location in 1985 and added the restaurant (Grill) in 1996.

Today Pelican is the gathering place for Ottawa’s South end community that attracts customers from across the city, and is a destination for tourists seeking Ottawa’s best seafood dining experience. Our fresh fish, excellent fare, warm atmosphere and friendly, personable staff keep ‘em coming back.

Giving Back To the Community

The Pelican is one of Ottawa’s oldest independent food businesses. We believe in giving back to the community where we live and work. Our chefs enjoy participating in culinary fundraising events like Taste in the Glebe, Broadway for Bruyère (Bruyère Foundation), Feast of Fields (Carefor) and Taste for Hope (Shepherds of Good Hope) that connect them with Ottawa’s culinary community while supporting a good cause.

In 2019 we partnered with Mealshare to help local youth in need, and gave our guests the opportunity to do their part too. When you select a menu item marked with the Mealshare logo, Pelican through Mealshare and Operation Come Home, provides one meal to a youth in need. Buy one, give one – it’s that simple!

Meet The Team