The food is good, but from what we had heard about the reputation and quality of this restaurant - we were not impressed. It did not live up to our expectations. Don't get me wrong: the food and service are fine; but nothing great And, though their choices of beer may be great (as noted in other reviews), their choice of desserts was very limited … a few pies, a few truffles, several choices of single serving sized logs, and crême brulee. I had one of the logs and I found it to be too dry If you have never been here before and especially if you are arriving after sunset, familiarize yourself on Google StreetView on how to get there in advance so that you don't muddle around. The entrance to their driveway comes up quickly on the right near the bottom of a hill on Falldown Lane and is easy to miss while you are watching where you are going in the dark. Also, be aware that the driveway is only a single lane and goes back up the hill (in a different direction) that you just went down. Should you meet someone on the driveway leaving as you are arriving, courtesy and practically calls for you to yield to the leaving guest since you can back down the driveway easier than they can back up it. The only exception would be if you should meet each other near the very top of the driveway, in which case the distance the leaving guest would have to back up versus you trumps the direction

I have eaten at the Swan several times over the years and this was the worst dining experience I have had to date. Usually the food is well crafted and use fresh ingredients. Tonight my jambalaya had overcooked shrimp, frozen vegetables, and dry chicken with a couple slices of flavorless sausage. The sided is of spicy kale salad was Costco bagged lemon seed kale salad in a tiny fruit cup. Great for home bbq with the family, terrible side for a 18$ dish at what once was a respectable restaurant. Our appetizer was the shrimp and crab cakes, which ended up being four tiny discs the diameter of a golf ball, all breading, barely tasted of crab with the equivalent of one shrimp chopped between the four cakes. Included with the poorly done crab cakes was half rotten wilted greens and dried out carrot shavings. The blackened talapia was just breaded and deep fried with an over salted sauce slathered all over it and some awful rice. For two Cordon Blue chefs running the kitchen, this was simply awful and a waste of a evening drive to Carp. Never again will I eat at the Swan or recommend it to anyone else.

This restaurant has been and will always remain in my top 10 restaurants, mostly because of Joe's unbelievably good cuisine, but also because of the memories of late social nights here. I was worried Joe's food wouldn't work as well for takeout during COVID but boy was I wrong. Get in here and order something delicious from the menu. My 2 recent faves are the bibimbap and the Korean fried BBQ chicken burgers. Desserts are also out of this world. Always new things in the fridge to try, heaven for people with a sweet tooth. P.S. Joe likes to cook with HEAT so if that's an issue make sure you let him know when ordering. His spices are balanced with flavour, and always seems to work. On the other hand... If you like spicy, make sure you let him know too... You'll never forget it. He made a table of firefighters shed tears one night with an experimental dish that was SO full of flavour, but off the charts with heat . 10/10, zero regrets, would do it all over again.)

My husband made a reservation at The Swan for my birthday. My husband is over 6 feet tall and we were seated at a table which may be coffee table height. I expressed my concern about eating dinner in these circumstances to the hostess only to be told they were fully booked. We ordered drinks and we were considering leaving when the hostess came back to advise that another couple were almost finished their meal and we could have their table when they left. If she hadn't done this, two very disgruntled customers would have walked out the door. We had a very nice dinner, but sadly the evening was a bit tainted by this situation. All this to say, if you make a reservation, be sure to specify that you don't want to eat at the low table near the bar. In my opinion, The Swan should remove this table and get another one of regular height. We can't be the only people who would find this awkward and unacceptable.

First time to this hidden gem. We (4) all had different dishes for our main. Ribs- plenty of meat on the bone and flavourful. Salmon well portioned with potato and carrot mash. Linguine Alfredo always a good choice. Lastly Bi Bin Bop bowl with rice, vegetable sticks yoir choice of protein and topped with fried egg. Mild sauce on the side. Dessert and coffe followed. The wine list is limited but good. Plenty of parking up the hill.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Salmon & Salmon, Fettuccine Alfredo, Bi Bim Bop, Ribs
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Parking
No parking signs and it is difficult to know where the parking lot is located.

We had the place to ourselves! It was a day where every restaurant was packed for lunch, and we hadn't been back to the Swan for a few years, so we drove out to Carp. I don't know why it wasn't packed, actually, empty. Seemed like a possible "red flag", but it was the absolute opposite. Service was excellent, and the quality of product and presentation was outstanding. We had the charcuterie platter and the "K-FC". When we departed, I noted the other local spots were hopping. Sort of didn't want to post this out of greed for having what seemed to be a secret place all to ourselves... But that's not fair to the owners and staff, nor others that should stop in and enjoy what they offer. We will definitely return!

We went for a birthday dinner. We were served immediately by a very friendly staff member. The selection of food is nice... There's something for everybody! I had the sushi, which was really yummy. Everyone I was with enjoyed their meals too. Also, a very nice selection for dessert too! The outdoor patio is a pleasant place to sit in the summer.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Bi Bim Bop, Ribs
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Parking
Parking lot is located up a hill.

This is a great little spot!! The food is good. Atmosphere is good and the staff are friendly. Just a couple of strange comments, but these things really add to the dining experience...the booths are too upright and they move around such that it seems like they might break. Also, the napkins are PATHETIC. They are the smallest, cheapest napkins you can buy (almost)...the ones you buy at the Dollar Store 200 at a time. It would be nicer if they used the 'linen-like' napkins. Otherwise, food was great and so was the dessert!!!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$50–60

Amazing food. I've eaten there about 5 times now and never been disappointed. Just had the lobster newburg crepes and they were delicious enough to inspire me to write this review...so much lobster. It's kind of a pub and kind of a fancy restaurant, a little of both; overall comfortable, eclectic and relaxed. Also reasonably priced, 3 pints, two entrees (aforementioned crepes plus smoked striploin steak and fries), truffles and a 'scottish' coffee (coffee with scotch, drambuie and whipped cream) came to $82 (after tax) plus tip. Huge beer selection, wine more limited...amazing desserts. Worth a visit!

It's an old pub in a large house. The entrance drive is steep (this may be a challenge in winter) but there is a parking lot at the beginning of the driveway. The beer menu selection is small but adequate. The food menu is also small but it has the sections: soups & salads, appetizers, casual fare and mains. The separate dessert menu has some perennial choices. I had the NY blueberry cheesecake. The service is quietly good, the food was very good (I had the salmon) and the desserts and coffee also very good. Price is quite reasonable
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4

Such a diverse fusion menu at Carp's hidden gem. This chef is extremely creative and the dishes really showed a level of innovation that is at the top of the Ottawa restaurant scene, and surprisingly Swan is out in Carp! Highly recommend the sushi (we had spicy salmon, which is not too spicy).. excellent french onion soup and I ordered the suicide Jambalaya which want initially spicy but rather a slow burn that increases over time. Thoroughly enjoyable and good for another repeat visit with all those interesting menu items!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Delicious food. Friendly service. High quality chocolates and desserts. Take-out orders only. We stumbled upon this place while in the area for gardening supplies. Glad we did! Korean fried chicken and fries was delicious, spicy, tangy, and tender. Bibimbap was well received by my friend. Chicken wrap was generously filled with quality ingredients, and tasted great! Fries were hot and crispy. 12 mins from our walk-in/take-out order to ready to eat! So thankful bc we were hungry at the time. Don't forget to try the chocolates and desserts. She makes them herself!

Excellent service, friendly staff and a mouthwateringly, delicious meal! Hamburgers were excellent with a fresh and tasty side salad. Finished the meal with lovely chocolate truffles. Perfect meal, served promptly and with a smile! I highly recommend this gem just off the main road! Nice location as well :)
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Swan Signature Burger
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot

We love this place. It's a quaint old pub with tons of charm. The menu is eclectic, and the food is excellent . The staff is very helpful and friendly. I'd recommend going here for a delicious meal, or just to hang out with a friend or two and have a pint.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Swan Signature Burger, Bi Bim Bop, French Onion Soup, Fusion Sushi Rolls, Tenderloin Steak Et Frites, Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cake

After hearing about this restaurant only a few months ago, we thought we would give it a try. We were surprised with the varied menu from Asian to German cuisine being featured. Our lunch was so enjoyable, that we immediately booked for a dinner reservation with family. Once again the food was delicious. The other exceptional item is the friendlyness and the amazing service. They are so kind and friendly it is such a pleasant change. We will definitely return and try other items on their menu.

I was a little disappointed with the food, i was expecting it to be freshly prepared but it tasted more like deep fried frozen foods, for example no hand cut french fries but frozen, the spicy wonton soup was way too spicy killing any chance of flavour and the battered fish was very greasy. The one silver lining was the french onion soup...exceptional.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$80–90
Food: 2
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 3

It's a good pub. I thought from their website it may be fine dining pub style. Its casual, friendly, and servings were very generous. Good mix of drinks and desserts to choose from. The later being rare for such an establishment. We enjoyed our meal but still likely won't prioritize a revisit but are still glad we went. There are definitely regulars who are all friendly and good people. Good place with the biggest pork schnitzel I've ever seen!

We have been ordering take-out beef Bibimbap from this place all pandemic-long and it has been consistently delicious. We have tried their Kimchi Pancakes, Fish & Chips, Reuben special, lobster roll, Jerk wings and spring rolls so far. All good. By far, the Bibimbap is our favourite! Even our 3 yr old requests it!! The staff is amazing, accommodating and super nice! If you haven't tried this place GO NOW!!!! You will not be disappointed!

Very comfy restaurant with a unique flair and menu.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Bi Bim Bop, Fusion Sushi Rolls, Jambalaya
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Parking
Located behind the restaurant and a little tricky to find, but several spaces were open...

For a lazy Saturday afternoon on a long weekend, lunch was a pleasant experience. I had the chicken and brie pot pie and it was pretty much exactly what I'd wanted. The pot pie was piping hot and there was ample chicken with no filler potato, which is always a risk with pot pie. The service was prompt, courteous and attentive throughout the meal. It's quite a drive of you're not already in the area, but it was well worth the trip.

Just celebrated our tenth anniversary at the swan, Sunna made our wedding cake. Prices are fair, the newly renovations are beautiful. The staff is wonderful and made arrangements for my wifes service dog. The food was just as great as we remembered, the menu has been pared down a little but there are still wonderful things to eat. The prices are fair for the quality. Hope we can celebrate our twentieth anniversary with them too.

Visited this restaurant at a friend's recommendation. We had the goat cheese salad and Korean fried chicken. Goat cheese salad is a hugh portion, very tasty. Korean fried chicken is very tender just the right amount of sauce. There is a little bit of kick to the sauce. The fries was so crispy. Love it. Wish we had portioned our meal, we saw a fridge full of desserts on our way out. Will have to visit again.

If you are looking for a quiet spot for a meal and don't mind getting a bit off the highway (417 at Carp), this is a place worth keeping in mind. The food is very good. A few beers to choose from. Good choice of dessert. All quite reasonably priced. Very good service. Nice interior. Outdoor seating available seasonally. I was there recently after a long while, and will go again.

My wife and I have been here a number of times for lunch and the food is always great. The menu is eclectic and has something for everyone. We also just had them cater our wedding and they did an amazing job. All of our guests were raving about the food - even the picky kids who loved the deep fried mac and cheese balls. We highly recommend them as a restaurant and a caterer!

We had the place to ourselves. Nice ambiance and suburb meals. Fall off the bone ribs and fresh salads. Truffles and coffee were the perfect ending to a sweet evening. Thank you
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Ribs

This was one of the best meals we ever had! My husband ordered the medium spice Jambalaya which had the perfect spiciness and flavour and it tasted homemade. I ordered the the Pork schnitzel with the lemon sauce and it was heavenly. The portions were big, the server was very sweet, and the atmosphere was cozy! Would 100% recommend More

While visiting our cousin and she recommended your establishment. Was awful food and service was just average. We ate at The Cat restaurant lastnight. Although very busy we had excellent service and food!!! The cost for our meal the first night for three people was $127.00 and last night $125.00 for four nights. WON'T be back.

Obsessed. Cutest little place in Carp. The food was excellent. The menu is ecclectic and has something for everyone, even vegan options. Had the pork schnitzel and everyone's eyes were fixated on my beautiful plate.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Recommended dishes
Pork Schnitzel

Amazing food! We had the fish and chips, the jumbalaya, the lobster cakes and the veggie spring rolls! Everything was Soo good !! Their desserts are absolutely decadent! Their cheesecakes are to die for ! We had the caramel and the cherry.. both were amazing.. also had the hazelnut crunch cake!! Highly recommend this place..

Located in an old house in the village of Carp, this place has been transformed into a great pub and restaurant. It has an excellent patio for sitting outside in the summer and is located far enough away from everything to be quiet and relaxing. It's a great place to go for a quiet dinner or private meeting.

Love the Swan. First time back since patios open again and all of the food was unbelievably good. My only issue is that the Korean Fried Chicken and Jerk Chicken wings are so good that I never get to try anything else. Staff are lovely, patio is nice, can't say anything more positive can I? Will be back.

Went for a birthday lunch for my Aunt and had a great time. There were 5 of us and we all enjoyed our meal!! There was so much food that 3 of us needed doggy bags. Of course with homemade dessert available we all indulged and it was worth it!! Very friendly staff, an overall excellent experience.

My new favourite restaurant! The atmosphere is serene and very peaceful. We sat on the patio and listened to the birds and took in the wonderful landscape as we ate the delicious food. The menu is terrific, I cannot wait to come back and try more items. The Swan is a diamond in the rough.

A true gem hidden away in an unassuming corner of Carp. With new bistro inspired decor and a menu that can't be beat provided by the 2 Cordon Bleu trained owners / chefs in the kitchen you will get a gastronomic experience you won't soon forget and happily repeat over and over again.

The menu is diverse but but too big, so everything is delicious. Every two friday there's live jazz music! They beers from around the world, but the menu there's quite some beers that are not available. The restautant is an old house and it's quite lovely. I really recommand it!

Came here after the defenbunker museum and it was a great experience. There is parking beside the restaurant and the atmosphere is really nice and comfortable with friendly staff. If you're passing through here and are looking for quaint place to eat this is a great option!

Wow, that's something. While generally (maybe due to covid) I struggle to find good restaurants in Ontario, The Swan At Carp is different. The menu is original, the meals are cooked to perfection. I definitely have found a place to dine from time to time.

Great patio
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–40
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot

Had a lovely time celebrating our birthdays. The staff was very accommodating
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$40–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Bi Bim Bop

Went there with some friends and my wife. I had the steak which was really well prepared, my wife had the spring rolls which are not as good as they used to be. The French onion soup was great. Overall I would highly suggest this restaurant/pub

So amazing!!! Quick service, friendly and accommodating staff (I have a service dog) and THE BEST steak I have ever had!!! Everything we ordered was out of thisnworkd delicious. Definitely recommend to anyone. Can't wait to go back …

Utterly scrumptious food, and such a unique menu! The building and decor made me feel like I'd stepped into a pub 100 years ago. Charming in its simplicity and homey-ness. Casual and comfortable, and definitely family friendly. Go today!!!

A very nice place if you want to dine out in a place feels like home. The service is very professional. And all the things we ordered are delicious. I wish to try the Korean dish next time since I heard one of the cook is from South Korea.

The food is great. Everything is made from scratch. It's a small restaurant, with a cozy atmosphere. If you like beer, they normally have a good selection on draught. And the staff and the owner are all very friendly. Highly recommended.

My boyfriend introduced me to this place when we first started dating and it's now our favorite place to go. The food is always amazing, service is lovely and the house it's in is adorable. Absolutely a must try for everyone

Korean fried chicken and schnitzel are both very good, bibimbap also really good. Sushi appetizers are large. Great staff, fast service, closes at 8 some days so you have to remember to get here a little earlier than usual.

Great food. Fast, friendly service. Decent prices.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Jambalaya

My family took me to the The Swan for Mother's Day . Lucky me! We enjoyed a wonderful buffet. The Swan is also the best place in the Ottawa area for macarons, truffles and other desserts.

Used to be an old haunt many years ago, and our recent visit was a pleasant surprise. Great food at a reasonable price. Our server was helpful with suggestions. We'll be back again soon!

You need to come... No, you did not understand. YOU REALLY NEED TO COME. everything is home made, even the desserts. The owner is so nice that I felt just like at home. Awesome!

Amazing place. Can't go wrong with anything on the menu! Very unique place and very friendly and helpful staff. This hidden away restaurant is a little treasure! Delicious!

Staff was great, we were a large group and they took care of us really well. Crab cakes were great, but found the alfredo pasta pretty boring, but the steak was perfect

Incredibly delicious desserts!
Service
Take out
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Had a lovely experience, great food and great service. Had the fish and chips and spring rolls while enjoying the quiet patio. Will definitely return.

Amazing service, perfect in house seasonal menu. Fantastic combination of rustic pub fares and indulgent desserts. Slowly becoming a regular stop.

Nut allergy friendly ( very), fantastic desserts. Menu is a perfect mix of wholesome and eclectic. Over the top beer selections. A gem.

I love this restaurant the food is good and the place is comfortable and what I love the most is the live music, it is jazz and blue.

An old historic building in the heart of Carp, housing an excellent restaurant and friendly staff. I'm looking forward to returning.

Cozy atmosphere, eclectic menu, amazing desserts and great beer selection. One of my favourites. Great place to bring a big gang.

Visited this place many years ago.. It was cute and very friendly staff. If ever in the area again, I would stop in for a pint.

Really different little spot with great staff and service both in and outside, meal was delicious, and very reasonably priced!

Good food. Reasonably priced. Cozy environment. Needs better beer selection and maybe one more person during lunch hours

Awesome spot for a quiet dinner or a meeting with friends. The food is outstanding as is the service. Newly renovated.

Had delicious lobster crepe...it was amazing! Service was excellent . Looking forward to going again soon. …

Service was great. The food was spot on. Nice to have a local restaurant with great food and reasonably priced.

Service, food and atmosphere were great. Everyone enjoyed their meal. Everything is homemade! We will be back.

Good food. Friendly service. Good selection of craft and European beers. Goid selection of special desserts.

Very quaint pub with very friendly service and excellent food. When there you must try the soup of the day.

Amazing and inventive food just a little off the beaten path. Rent a car and drive to Carp! It's worth it

We attended the Robbie Burns night. Not to be missed if you have the opportunity next year. Great fun!

Great food - I always get their Chicken pot pie. Love having lunch on their patio in the summer.

Fantastic meal! Service and food were top notch!!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner

Fantastic food & a wonderful homey atmosphere!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner

Charming and cozy pub in Carp with excellent food and service. Make sure to order dessert!

Great food and fantastic chocolate desserts made by owner who is professionally trained

The duck was amazing, table enjoyed their food and variety of drinks. Good stuff guys.

Cozy, friendly and quiet, with decent food and a good beer selection. Great desserts!

Friendly service ,really good food,especially desserts. Lovely setting in the trees.

Excellent food, generous portions sizes and lovely location. Highly recommend!

Food is delicious. Service pleasant. A must try if you’re in the Carp area.

I have always loved the Swan and went there for my birthday. Food is good.

Excellent food. Favorite item is the chicken pot pie. Awesome server too.

Very good portions. The chefs are Cordon Bleu and make delicious food!

Food was good. Jazz was fun. Tiny bit hard to find but Google has you!

Great spot for lunch. It is a little hard to find hidden in the woods.

Very diverse menu with lots of options, was difficult to make a choice

Two Cordon Bleu trained chefs make for an unforgettable experience

Always a pleasant atmosphere and good beer selection. Great menu.

Very good. Friendly service, homey atmosphere, reasonably priced.

Great fish and chips for take out. We'll make it a regular stop

Well kept draft English beer in Canada deserves 6 stars alone

Great place. Pub atmosphere with great food from a great chef

Outstanding food, friendly staff in a historic house in Carp.

PriceAmazing food,friendly people, cozy atmosphere and good

Generous servings, and great flavours. Highly recommended.

Roast beef dip is awesome! Lots of decadent desserts too.

Great atmosphere and delicious food at reasonable prices.

Always a good place to go for draft and a great meal.

Great food. Nice little place that was a great find.

Nice ambience, fabulous food! Definitely recommend!