Le Moulin de Provence
A ByWard Market landmark since 1998, Le Moulin de Provence is a French bakery and café famous for its Obama Cookies — the maple leaf shortbread that Barack Obama bought during his 2009 visit. Fresh-baked pastries, artisan breads, and a warm market atmosphere.
Features
About Le Moulin de Provence
Le Moulin de Provence has been anchoring the ByWard Market since 1998. Solely owned and operated by the same owner for over 25 years, this French bakery, pastry shop, and café sits right inside the historic market building at 55 ByWard Market Square, with entrances on both York Street and through the market interior.
The bakery became internationally famous in 2009 when U.S. President Barack Obama stopped in during his first official visit to Canada and purchased their maple leaf shortbread cookies. Those cookies — now known as "Obama Cookies" — have been a signature item ever since, available year-round.
What to Order
- Obama Cookie — The iconic maple leaf shortbread with "Canada" written in icing. The one that put this bakery on the world stage.
- Chocolate Almond Croissant — Frequently cited as one of the best in Ottawa. Flaky, buttery, and generously filled.
- Artisan Breads — Baked fresh daily using traditional methods.
- Quiche & Sandwiches — Solid lunch options from the deli counter.
- Seasonal Pastries — Rotating selection of tarts, cakes, and viennoiseries.
Visitor Information
- Hours: Daily 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Reservations: Walk-in only
- Price Range: $$
Getting There
- Address: 55 ByWard Market Square, Ottawa, ON K1N 9C3
- Neighbourhood: ByWard Market (inside the market building)
- Parking: Paid street parking and nearby lots; closest OC Transpo stop is Rideau
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Information may change. Please verify details on the official website before visiting.