Some very good suggestions thus far..
Might I add, if you do go to the Highlander, that a walk around the rest of the Byward Market is a must! (Especially this time of year!)

Chinatown is also a great spot for restaurants and to see the new gate they built that leads into/or out of the section of the city..very ornate Chinese artistry and stunning on a bright sunny day..IMHO.

I'm very fond of Ottawa as I attended the UofO (Go Gee Gees!) and find myself heading up once a month to hit the fine selection of book stores.

Welcome to Canada's Capital and have a safe& fun stay up here..eh?!

Sara
P.S if you find yourself just outside of the city,in a place called Stittsville,stop at a restaurant called "The Glen".. Great Scottish food!!!
http://www.theglen.ca/site2/