Another terrific stay in Canada’s Capital, the City of Ottawa

By Mike Cohen

Ottawa Tourism

As Canada’s capital, Ottawa (https://ottawatourism.ca)  is the perfect place to experience some of the country’s best attractions, celebrations and flavors in one welcoming city. With its unique blend of urban and rural beauty, year-round outdoor activities, and vibrant neighbourhoods, the Ottawa region is best explored over several days or more. Since I often go there for family reasons, an extended trip is usually on the agenda as was the case this past summer.

What can we recommend?

Let’s start off with the seat of Canada’s federal government and the setting for national celebrations the year round. Parliament Hill is the most visited Ottawa attraction. Guided tours are free and include the Senate, House of Commons, East Block and Parliament: The Immersive Experience. Be sure to reserve your tickets in advance.

Ottawa cultural attractions, museums and galleries invite visitors to experience the best of Canada all in one place. Whether it’s the stunning National Gallery of Canada, with world-class art on display, or the dramatic Canadian War Museum, these are the experiences that bring Canadian culture to life for any visitor.  

A historic farmers’ market and shopping district by day, a favorite gathering place of restaurants and clubs by night is the ByWard Market, just east of Parliament Hill. This is one Ottawa neighbourhood you won’t want to miss.

A historic waterway filled with boaters spring through fall and the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink in winter,  the Rideau Canal winds through the heart of Ottawa before connecting with the Ottawa River through dramatic stepped locks right next to Parliament Hill.

Ottawa Tourism

Have you ever considered trying whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Ottawa River, some of the continent’s finest, then top it off with some bungee jumping? The Ottawa region is also a cycling enthusiast’s dream destination, with around 800 kilometres (497 miles) of recreational pathways linking natural areas, parks, gardens and national sites.

Ottawa is a city of celebrations, offering visitors a year-round calendar of parties, festivals and special events. Admire over a million tulips and enjoy special programming throughout the city during the Canadian Tulip Festival in May. On July 1, the city celebrates the biggest party in the country, Canada Day. Visitors will also experience a host of music celebrations, including the Ottawa Jazz Festival, Ottawa Chamberfest, and Ottawa Bluesfest, which welcome some of the world’s biggest acts to our city. In winter, Canada celebrates Winterlude and takes to the ice on the world’s largest skating rink, the Rideau Canal Skateway.

The culinary scene in Ottawa is in full bloom, with a thriving community of Ottawa chefs and diverse restaurants making names for themselves both at home and abroad. To experience multiple venues in one outing, book a dining tour of one of Ottawa’s great neighbourhoods — Ottawa Tasting Tours and Experience Food make all the arrangements for you. Or take a guided gourmet food tour with C’est Bon Ottawa to explore food shops, farmers’ markets and restaurants. The tasty options are endless!

The Capital’s premier performing arts venue, the National Arts Centre, presents a full lineup of music, dance and theatre, plus popular touring acts and shows. Ottawa also has a thriving local theatre scene, including the Great Canadian Theatre Company, Ottawa Little Theatre, The Gladstone and La Nouvelle Scène.

Ottawa is filled with Capital sights and attractions and just about as many ways to explore and see them. Experience a tour on both land and water with the Lady Dive Amphibus, or enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Ottawa River or the Rideau Canal. Get up close and personal with city sights by joining a walking or cycling tour based on your activity level and interests.  

Unique Ottawa neighbourhoods offer distinctive shopping, dining and nightlife experiences across the Capital. From the must-see ByWard Market area to the Glebe’s community feel, to the trendy Wellington West, there’s lots of local flavor to soak up in Ottawa’s varied districts.

THE BROOKSTREET HOTEL: For the second summer in a row, we were fortunate to spend the day at the magnificent Brookstreet Hotel in Kanata. While we stayed with family, we do want to try out the accommodations here on a future visit.

Since opening in 2003, the Brookstreet Hotel has gained notice as a luxury property noted for outstanding dining, incredible entertainment, luxurious accommodations, inspired green initiatives and world-class golf and fitness facilities.

We arrived for our day of leisure and checked in at Perspectives Restaurant and a table on the beautiful patio looking over the full property. Since this was a Sunday, we were fortunate to be able to order from the brunch menu. What a treat! There were three of us. We started off with some drinks and then perused the different choices, opting for the classic breakfast (two eggs over easy, peameal bacon, breakfast potatoes and their homemade sourdough toast); a three-egg omelet, with mushrooms, brie cheese, spinach, chives, potato, fresh fruit and sourdough toast; and the salmon and avocado toast (salmon gravias, smashed avocado, sourdough, pickled red onions, wasabi cream cheese, sesame seeds, two poached eggs and green salad). Look out for young server Spencer. He was just terrific. 

On our previous visit, I had a nicely prepared club sandwich, grilled chicken breast, cheddar cheese, confit garlic aioli, vine-ripened tomato, bacon, Boston lettuce and Nat’s bakery sourdough. The other members of my party started off with some drinks and each ordered lamb barbacoa tacos- two corn tortillas, lamb shoulder slow-roasted in banana leaf, salsa borracha, pickled cucumber, green olives, fresh cilantro and lime.

Interestingly, a few days later, I received a text from a gentleman I know who asked if was having brunch at the Brookside. He said his wife thought she saw me at a nearby table. Happily, he had read one of my stories last year, which focused on the hotel. As a result, he booked a stay.

The contemporary cuisine of Brookstreet’s culinary team features fresh, seasonal ingredients from across Ontario, creating exceptional dishes that are totally unique to Perspectives & Options Jazz Lounge. The latter, connected to the restaurant, is recognized as the best jazz bar Ottawa has to offer. Here you can fill your ears with live local jazz music and tantalize your taste buds with the culinary creations by Chef Clifford Lyness. All this while surrounded by the stunning contemporary architecture of the lounge itself, which also features panoramic windows overlooking the immaculately manicured Marshes Golf Course

The heated outdoor saltwater pool and the area surrounding it truly is a slice of paradise. We were greeted by Rachel from the hotel’s Flex Fitness Centre who set us up with three comfortable lounge chairs, under a large umbrella to block the sun. Each of us was given towels, bathrobes and slippers. I did not want this day to end. The water was just perfect. After a lengthy swim and dip, I headed to the spacious jacuzzi for another totally relaxing experience. This type of activity is always a novelty for me.

The hotel is now completing an impressive $11 million renovation project, transforming its guestrooms into a haven of luxury and comfort. This upgrade reflects the hotel’s commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience and sets a new standard in upscale accommodations.

The renovation has meticulously reimagined each guestroom with a fresh, modern aesthetic, incorporating sophisticated design elements and state-of-the-art amenities. Guests can now enjoy elegant furnishings, premium bedding, and chic décor that blends contemporary style with timeless elegance. The new design features a bold color palette, wood flooring, and stylish lighting that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

One of the highlights of the renovation is the integration of advanced technology. Each room is equipped with smart TVs, high-speed internet access, and intuitive climate control systems, ensuring guests stay connected and comfortable throughout their stay.  Energy-efficient fixtures underscore the hotel’s dedication to sustainability and guest satisfaction.

The revamped guestrooms also boast upgraded bathrooms with luxurious fixtures, spacious walk-in showers, and high-end toiletries. The attention to detail in these upgrades ensures that every aspect of the guest experience is catered to with the utmost care.

Whether traveling for business or leisure, guests can now enjoy an even higher level of comfort, sophistication, and style.

This hotel has 276 rooms and suites spaced across 18 floors. In the past year, some major room upgrades have taken place. As noted earlier, I do look forward to the day when I get to stay here for a few nights. Plans do call for the hotel to eventually build a second tower. There is now 30,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, featuring 25 meeting rooms, including three large ballrooms, an outdoor pavilion and the Newbridge Foyer which boasts floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

From my seat at the poolside, I could see the busy activities at the  Marshes Golf course and a lovely pond that converts to a skating rink in the winter months. An 18-hole mini golf course is very popular with families. The NHL’s Ottawa Senators partner up with the property. Brookstreet is recognized as the official hotel and resort of the  Senators and Canadian Tire Centre, which also includes the title sponsorship to the   Brookstreet Lounge (located at the ice level).   

The Flex Fitness Club has 500 members from the community.  Recognized as the ultimate Ottawa gym and fitness studio, it is equipped with extensive fitness equipment, saltwater pools, hot tubs, fitness classes and personal trainers.  Flex Fitness Studio provides a wellness component for those who wish to stay active during their travels.  Members get the advantage of access to the indoor and outdoor pools. The Au Natural Spa looked mighty fine as well.

Indeed, on a warm summer day when you enter these premises and close your eyes imagine being at a Club Med resort. It is that impressive!

The hotel is located at 525 Legett Drive. For more information log on to https://www.brookstreethotel.comhttps://www.marshesgolfclub.com or call 1-888-826-2220.

PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL: The Ottawa Titans began play in the Frontier League in 2022. They play out of the state-of-the-art Ottawa Stadium. This is minor-league professional baseball. The schedule begins in May and continues through early September. It is a wonderful outing for the entire family, even someone who might not even be a baseball fan. The franchise officials work so hard to offer a fun game day experience. I really enjoyed my night out there, especially coming from Montreal. Our professional baseball team the Expos left 20  years ago. Go to www.ottawatitans.com.

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL. I went to my first professional football game in Ottawa in more than three decades to see the hometown Redblacks host the Calgary Stampeders at TD Place Stadium (formerly known as Lansdowne Park), which seats 24,000 for football games and concerts. The Lansdowne neighbourhood also hosts two condominium towers and townhomes with a combined 280 units, a 360,000 sq. ft. shopping/entertainment district, an office tower, 1,300 underground parking spaces and an 18-acre urban park. Construction of “The New Lansdowne” began in the fall of 2012 and the site partially  The Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG) owns and operates the Redblacks, the Ottawa 67’s Hockey Club (OHL),  Athletico Ottawa (soccer),  Ottawa Blackjacks (basketball) and Ottawa PWHL (women’s hockey). It was founded in 2008 to re-establish  CFL football in Ottawa; however, the city’s stadium required major renovations which were not feasible without a comprehensive plan for the revitalization of the entire site.  OSEG partnered with the City of Ottawa to develop the plan and oversee the transformation of Lansdowne into a destination of choice for live events, cultural activities, shopping, dining and recreational activities.  

DINING OUT

There are so many wonderful choices for dining out. From my most recent trip, here is my culinary report.

STARLING: The historic York on William (YOW) building, which encompasses Starling Restaurant & Bar and Apothecary Cocktail Lounge, represents a must-visit and we were thrilled to dine there for the second successive year. The latter are part of a multiple-dining concept featuring a rooftop terrace and street-level patio and located in one of the oldest buildings in Ottawa, dating back to 1875. Early occupants included an undertaker, a baker, and a wholesaler, which reflects the diverse commercial activity of the ByWard Market in the 19th Century. 

Starling is Ottawa’s new concept which elevates any night out with hand-crafted cocktails and a refreshing, modern menu that draws inspiration from bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Here you step in to an inviting and stylish atmosphere, built for creating an incredible experience.

The 12,000-square-foot building was purchased in 2020 for $5 million. Co-owner John Borsten’s business partners in this venture are Pat Charbonneau and Ian Darveshali. It is spread over four levels, with Apothecary, YOW and Starling each catering to different audiences under the same roof and able to serve 500 diners at a time.  The seasonal patios are big draws: one at street level can seat 50 while the rooftop has room for 60. Capacity for both can be increased for cocktail receptions.

Apothecary is described as “a nod to medicinal cures of which bitters, tonics and spirits all play a role. Here they believe in using real botanicals, house-made syrups and tinctures, to heal the body, mind and soul.”

Starling brings you contemporary dishes from timeless classics to personal recipes with a fondness for locality, designed to be loved by one or shared by many.   Their mixologists can serve up a broad range of tasty concoctions, either mixed, stirred, or shaken and inspired by local ingredients and international techniques.

Starling is named after a highly social bird that likes to travel in large flocks. That is why you will see decorative bird cages in the restaurant. Our table had one.  It was Marketing Director Sofia Santiso Borsten who created the Starling concept and oversaw the design. Even the doors they inherited were restored and now serve as a privacy wall for a table near the bar. The same goes for the original lamps, which were repainted.  Of course, the wallpaper features colorful birds.  

While we dined on the rooftop last year, on this particularly warm evening we chose to be seated in a booth at the beautifully air-conditioned main level.

Our wonderful server Rory started us off with some drinks:  a scarlet tanager, an Elderflower egret and an Abigail placebo drink.

Following a look at the menu, we began with 12 oysters. They were of good size and went very quickly among the three of us

Next, we chose something new, a Mediterranean platter. It was highlighted by freshly baked and piping hot focaccia bread along with marinated roasted peppers, salsa verde and cerignola olives. Now I usually try and limit my bread intake before the main course, but this focaccia bread was simply too good!

We also enjoyed a bowl of caprese risotto with shrimp.  This dish offers a delightful symphony of flavors. The creamy risotto provides a rich and velvety texture, with each grain of rice perfectly cooked to a tender, yet slightly al dente consistency. Infused with a hint of garlic and onion, the base is subtly seasoned, allowing the star ingredients to shine. Tender, succulent shrimp add a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness, complementing the dish’s Mediterranean essence.

For the main course, we ordered the steak frites and the beef tenderloin. 

Steak frites is a classic French dish that epitomizes simple, high-quality comfort food. Here it featured a perfectly cooked 10-ounce striploin, served with crispy, golden-brown French fries. The steak was seasoned with salt and pepper and cooked to our preferred level of medium rare. The combination of a juicy, tender steak and crispy fries offers a delightful contrast in textures and flavors, making it a beloved staple here at Starling. Meanwhile, the six-ounce AAA beef tenderloin came with whipped potatoes and bordelaise sauce.  This is a premium cut of meat renowned for its tenderness and rich flavor. The “AAA” designation indicates a high-quality grade, meaning the beef has excellent marbling, which enhances its juiciness and taste. This cut is often considered one of the most desirable steaks due to its buttery texture and subtle, yet robust, beef flavor.

For dessert, we shared the delicious sticky toffee pudding. This is a classic British dessert that’s beloved for its rich, comforting flavors. Imagine a moist, spongy cake made with finely chopped dates, which gives it a deliciously sticky texture. This cake is drenched in a luscious toffee sauce that is both sweet and buttery. Served warm, it comes with a dollop of vanilla ice cream.

Starling is located at 54 York Street in the Byward Market. Hours of operation are  4 pm to 11 pm Tuesday and Wednesday,  11 am to midnight Thursday and Friday and  9 am to midnight Saturday and Sunday. You can call  613.421.0820   or log on to  www.starlingottawa.ca.

MÉTROPOLITAIN BRASSERIE:  We can never get enough of the fabulous Métropolitain Brasserie in Ottawa, conveniently located next to the Byward Market at 700 Sussex. That is just steps away from Parliament Hill. Each summer we make a reservation the moment we know the date of our trip.

Home to Ottawa’s largest oyster bar, the restaurant is open seven days a week, serving lunch, dinner and brunch on weekends. While we have enjoyed their sprawling patio in recent years, it was quite warm out on the evening we arrived, so we asked for a table in the dining room.  The covered patio can accommodate 125 people while the capacity inside is 300.

The Brasserie presents a Hill Hour every day from 4 pm to 7 pm for discounted oysters and shrimp, and every Thursday for Buck a Shuck. There is an award-winning wine list, and this is considered a prime place for a large event or a romantic dinner for two, adding that certain Parisian flavor.

We started off the evening with some cocktails, two French Rivieras (Strawberry vodka, melon, Chambord, lime) and a glass of Riesling wine. It was then time to take a good hard look at all the options available among the appetizers.   The small size seafood tower was more than enough for three of us to share. It contained shrimp, oysters, mussels, snow crab, cod croquettes, scallop crudo and ceviche. This was just fine to share among the three of us; and we had some leftovers. There is also a larger platter for four or five people available. 

The burrito toast for two was another treat for the three of us to share. It includes sunflower seed and beetroot pesto, avocado, fried sourdough, sprouts and chili oil.

There is a nice selection of main courses.   I have traditionally feasted upon the Duck Confit here. It is an item I do not see available at too many restaurants I frequent. Crispy Duck Confit is a sumptuous dish that combines the rich flavors of duck with a delightful texture.  The term “confit” refers to a method of cooking where the duck is slowly simmered in its own fat until it’s incredibly tender and flavorful. In this process, the meat is seasoned, cooked at a low temperature for several hours, and then stored in fat, which preserves and enhances its taste. To achieve a crispy exterior, the confit duck is typically finished in a hot oven or under a broiler to crisp up the skin. The result is a beautifully crisp, golden-brown skin that contrasts with the tender, succulent meat underneath.     As for the others, one opted for the duck as well while there was also the selection of the petit steak frites, a classic French dish known for its simplicity and deliciousness. The term “petit” means “small,” so the dish features a smaller portion of steak. The steak was seasoned with salt and pepper and grilled to achieve a perfect crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

For dessert we shared a decadent piece of flourless chocolate cake, a recommendation from our server Michael.

Other items on the menu include burgers bouillabaisse, steak, fish & chips, cauliflower steak, roasted chicken, pork chops, grilled mackerel, steelhead trout, lobster ravioli, coquille St. Jacques, whole wheat penne, lobster & matane shrimp roll,  sandwiches,  salads,  omelets, beef and tuna tartare, poutine and a charcuterie and cheese board.  

Weekend brunch is available from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturdays, Sundays and select holidays.  

The restaurant is co-owned by John Borsten and Sarah Chown, with Mike Poliquin as chef de cuisine. Hours of operation are 11:30 am to 11 pm Monday to Wednesday, 11:30 am to midnight Thursday and Friday, 10 am to midnight Saturday and 10 am to 11 pm Sunday Take-out and delivery service is in place each day from 11:30 am to 9 pm. For more details log on to www.metropolitainbrasserie.com or call 613-562-1160.

COCOTTE: The Metcalfe Hotel in Ottawa marks the Gray Collection’s first hotel property outside Montreal. Located in the heart of downtown Ottawa, just a few blocks from the historic Parliament Hill, the boutique hotel is home to Cocotte, a  French-inspired restaurant on the ground level, where we dined.  

Gray Collection is comprised of Hôtel William Gray, Le Petit Hôtel, and Auberge du Vieux-Port. Additionally, its restaurants include Maggie Oakes, Terrasse William Gray, Perché, Gaspar, Pincette, Terrasse sur L’Auberge, Bevo, Jacopo, and Vieux-Port Steakhouse, and a spa at Spa William Gray. The hotels, restaurants, and spa are formerly part of the Antonopolous Group, which has almost 50 years of success in the Montreal hospitality industry. Each property is a unique celebration of its neighbourhood and is connected to the other establishments by a shared philosophy of generosity, excellence, and premium service.

Led by Dimitri K. Antonopolous, Gray Collection expands the work of the previous Antonopolous Group while remaining committed to its enduring legacy and a shared belief in the Greek philosophy of philoxenia, which refers to the concept of welcoming and caring for all guests.

Cocotte is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. It can accommodate 96 people inside and 20 on the seasonal patio. We were seated on their beautiful terrace to experience their dinner menu, where French tradition meets local flavours. From veal blanquette to duck confit, the executive chef has crafted a creative menu inspired by French cuisine with market-fresh ingredients.  

Our server Cedric started us off with some cocktails. We then went through the menu and started off with a dozen Canadian oysters, served with fresh horseradish, cocktail sauce, mignonette and fresh lemon. Also from the starters, we enjoyed the salmon tartare, herbs de Provence and lavender cured salmon, ratatouille vegetables, chives and crostini. This comes as an appetizer and a main course, the latter including French fries.

For the main course, the three of us ordered the duck confit, the scallop and truffle risotto and the cod chaudree. Everything was prepared to perfection.

The duck confit consisted of a moulard duck leg, duck fat, fingerling potatoes, small peas, and honey and Vidal gastrique.  As for the scallop and truffle risotto, these were seared scallops, with charred cauliflower and  the truffle risotto in lemon butter. Finally, the Iceland cod was accompanied by pasta clams, chorizo, potatoes, leeks fondue and pineau des Charentes cream.

For dessert, we shared the special of the night, a s’mores log, with marshmallows, chocolate sauce and some other decadent ingredients. 

Cocotte opened in September 2022.  I asked Alexandre Cossette, the marketing director for The Gray Collection, whether any of the chefs were from Montreal. “No,” he responded, “because we wanted to work with local chefs from Ottawa. This decision was made to ensure that we incorporate local flavors and culinary expertise. By collaborating with Ottawa’s talented chefs, we aim to create a dining experience that truly reflects the local culture and ingredients, providing our guests with a fresh and authentic taste of Ottawa’s culinary scene.

“While Cocotte has its unique identity, we have incorporated some of the design aesthetics and culinary philosophies that our guests have come to love in Montréal. However, Cocotte also reflects the local Ottawa vibe, with a menu that highlights regional ingredients and flavors, providing a distinct and fresh experience. Our goal was to create a place that feels both familiar and new, blending the best of what we’ve done in Montreal with the vibrant culture of Ottawa.” Cocotte is located at 123 Metcalfe. Info: www.cocottebistro.cominfo@cocottebistro.com, or call (613) 216-2912.

SOMEWHERE DINE BAR:  We had heard a lot about a trendy dining spot called Somewhere Dine Bar in Ottawa’s Byward Market. It offers a delightful dining experience that combines casual elegance with a contemporary European flair and is highly appreciated by its patrons.  The establishment, situated at 110 Murray Street, is noted for its American cuisine and opened in 2020.

Owners Ali Marati and Majd Samrout are hands-on, working in the kitchen and chatting with customers. There are 54 seats inside, including the bar, and 60 on a very attractive seasonal patio.

We were greeted by our server Karime, who started us out with some drinks. It was then time to look at the appetizers and a dozen oysters, accompanied by horseradish, lemon, hot sauce and mignonette.  Keep in mind that during happy hour, between 5 pm and 7 pm, appetizers are half-price; oysters, are $2 and cocktails are $11.

 Next for us was the truffle tuna crudo: yellowfin tuna, truffle oil, truffle salt, pickled jalapenos, micro cilantro and crispy onions. We then went for the Arancini al Agrodolce, with romesco and agrodolce sauce, micro basil and parmigiano reggiano.  Arancini al Agrodolce is a delightful variation of traditional Sicilian arancini. These are risotto balls that are filled with a savory mixture, breaded, and deep-fried to crispy perfection. The “al agrodolce” aspect adds a unique twist: “agrodolce” translates to “sweet and sour,” so the dish is often served with a tangy-sweet sauce or glaze.

For the main course, the three of us shared the most remarkable Somewhere Surf & Turf Board. This was quite the feat:   14-ounce tenderloin, six-ounce poached lobster tails, seared scallops, poached jumbo tiger tail shrimp, glazed cremini mushrooms, garlic roasted asparagus, roasted parmesan potatoes, lemon garlic aioli, torched lemon, peppercorn sauce and clarified butter.  Everything on this plate was beyond excellent and yes, we had leftovers for the following day.

There is a wide array of other menu items we will have to try next time visit:  salad, calamari, steak tartare, wagyu and chicken dumplings, cheese and charcuterie board, pulled beef taco, steak frites, miso-glazed black cod, pasta and a chuck burger.

We did save some room for dessert and along came a decadent trio of tiramisu, fried cinnamon rolls and chocolate brownies.  The tiramisu came with mascarpone, lady fingers, cocoa powder and espresso. The extraordinary fried cinnamon rolls had a caramel drizzle, vanilla ice cream and fresh berries. Who does not love a chocolate brownie?  This one also came with vanilla ice cream, caramel drizzle, whipped cream and fresh berries.

Dinner is served here until midnight when another menu takes over through 2 am. There is a deejay on hand on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays,

You can call or text  (613) 562- 7244 for more details or   (613) 852-7244 for groups of six or more. Somewhere Dine Bar is open Monday to Sunday from 5 pm to 2 am. Log on to somewhereottawa.com

ZOLA’S RESTAURANT:  Zola’s Restaurant offers Italian fare and a terrific “Blunch” menu for most of each day. Located in the city’s west end, Zola’s remains family-owned and operated. Since 1986 this spot has kept a focus on its mission to deliver Italian food made from scratch, with super friendly service and a wholesome atmosphere. Owner Antonio Vacchio says he is proud to have been at the helm since day one of the first restaurants in the west end of Ottawa to offer an Italian dining experience with an open-concept kitchen. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free? They have you covered. Vacchio and his team have spent time focusing on options for different dietary restrictions and lifestyle choices. They also operate a popular catering arm. 

I met a friend there for breakfast, taking advantage of what they call “Blunch,” served from 8 am to 3 pm each day. Our server Caitrin started us off with coffee and then it was time to peruse the menu.  The Big Budgie caught my eye: three eggs, home fries, corned beef hash, calabrese sausage, capicola ham, bacon plus a breakfast sausage and a choice of toast. I substituted the sausages for some smoked salmon. Everything was prepared to perfection.

My friend has lived in Ottawa for more than 20 years yet was not familiar with Zola’s. He was pleasantly surprised and plans to come back for dinner one day. He chose the eggs benny: two poached eggs, home fries and an English muffin topped with hollandaise choice and a small salad.

Vacchio came to sit with us as we concluded our “Blunch,” the latter of which he introduced about a decade ago. “My bakers were already coming in early to prepare the food for the day, so I figured why not introduce this breakfast service?” he shared. “It is basically available throughout most of the day.  We were very pleased from the start with the reaction. I think people appreciate the creativity and variety of our menu items.”

Besides the traditional breakfast-time items of eggs, French toast, pancakes and waffles, there are also poutine and special breakfast pasta and pizza dishes.

Vacchio said that his kitchen bakes fresh goods every day, including pasta and desserts. The menu and take-out items cater to individuals with celiac disease. Visiting NHL teams and some concert performers, such as Bruce Springsteen, have their meals catered by Zola’s.

The restaurant can seat 84. On weekends you can look forward to live jazz performances.

I will return to Zola’s down the line for lunch or dinner to try the famous semolina dinner rolls. These soft, supple, and sweet little buns are a staple. They are baked fresh every day, beginning at 11:30 am, with a choice of white or whole grain.   Their in-store pasta shop has been a part of the business since the beginning and is something Vacchio takes great pride in.  Customers regularly walk out with their homemade pasta, pizza, meatballs, bread, pies, and quiche.

Zola’s is located at 2194 Robertson Road and is open seven days a week.   For more information log on to https://zolas.ca/  or call 613-721-0227.

NATE’S DELI: Thirty-five years ago I traveled to Ottawa for a job interview and before I headed home to Montreal, while driving on Rideau Avenue, I saw a place called Nate’s Deli. Well, I got the job and while it was in Montreal, it required that I make regular visits to the nation’s capital. That continued for a decade and on every trip Nate’s became a standard stop.

Founded by local and well-known philanthropist Dave Smith, Nate’s Deli opened its doors in 1959 and quickly gained notice for serving only the best-smoked meat in the city. Smith passed away last year.

In 2014 Nate’s relocated to Sparks Street and on my last trip I finally made a return visit for breakfast with my old friend Steve Georgopoulos, a retired hotel executive. Our charming server was Abby Voisard, a 20-year-old student in Environmental Geo Science at the University of Ottawa. She is a terrific representative of the brand.

André  Cloutier is the operating partner of the restaurant, with day-to-day management executed by General Manager Michelle Comeau. There are two other silent partners. 

The restaurant can seat 300 people inside and 60 on the patio, much bigger than the original premises. 

“Since joining the ownership team in January 2024, we have been actively assessing what our guests enjoy and identifying areas for improvement,” said Cloutier. “One change was bringing back rye bread from Rideau Bakery for our famous smoked meat sandwiches. Guests that remember Nate’s from the old days were certainly thrilled with that decision. 

‘Sparks Street is a beautiful area with unique challenges, particularly in attracting diners outside of peak times. Weekday lunchtimes are bustling, and events like Ribfest, Buskerfest, and Canada Day draw large crowds. Our venue can accommodate large groups at reasonable prices, which has proven successful for work events and bus tours. Moving forward, we plan to enhance our offerings for group dining and events to continue supporting the business.”

Nate’s Deli offers an all-day breakfast. Both Steve and I  ordered the King Nate. It comes with three eggs, a choice of bacon, ham, sausage or tomatoes, with home fries,  a pancake of French toast and toast. You can also get items like steak and eggs, omelets, breakfast poutine, eggs benedict, a breakfast sandwich, and bagel and lox.

Steve and I also decided to order smoked meat sandwiches to go. I  brought an ice pack to keep my take-out order fresh. When I ate it a few hours later, the Montreal smoked meat literally melted into my mouth. They have some terrific sandwiches available, as well as burgers, fried chicken,  chicken wings, fish and chips, steak frites, soups, salads, and pierogies.

Nate’s Deli is located at  152 Sparks Street and is open Monday to Friday from 7:30 am to 6 pm and 10 am to 2 pm on weekends. Log on to https://nates.ca and call 613-235-1424.

THE WELLINGTON DINER: Who doesn’t love a vintage diner?  On the busy street it is named after, you will find the Wellington Diner, which is where I met an old university classmate for breakfast. Many restaurants have their own take on breakfast, but the Wellington team is confident that it has the best one in town. From new tastes to the old classics,  the menu was quite impressive.

The Wellington Diner specializes in all things related to breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. They use the freshest ingredients to handcraft a distinctive and unique menu in a casual, family-friendly environment. Their unique blend of locally sourced products and innovative takes on classical dishes has helped us craft an environment that flawlessly combines the bold and traditional. I 

I was pleased to meet owner Jeff Frost. He purchased the place in 2015 and truly placed his own stamp on it. The restaurant has a cool vibe, with seating for 88 people over two floors on the inside and 24 more on a most beautiful season patio. Frost constructed it during the pandemic at a cost of $120,000. Inside there is a lot of memorabilia and framed photos on the wall. A lot of the local professional athletes from the hockey Senators and football Redblacks can often be spotted here.

You can order breakfast all day and I must say it took me quite some time to review the selections. I downloaded the QR code at my table and voila, there was the menu.

My dining partner chose one of the many Eggs Benny options, which feature two poached eggs atop an English muffin and smothered in savoury hollandaise. This is served alongside house homies (home fries) or a house salad. I chose the smoked meat hash: juicy smoked meat, sauteed peppers and onions, three cheese blends with two over-easy eggs and chipotle hollandaise. Before I left I also ordered a hot chicken sandwich to go: oven-roasted chicken stuffed between two slices of bread and smothered in-house beef gravy. It is served with fries, a side of peas, coleslaw and a tangy dill pickle.

When Frost bought the place almost a decade ago, he wanted to ensure that the menu had a lot of variety. There is a drink menu and weekly specials. On Mondays, kids eat for free. There is an endless array of egg combinations  (some accompanied by sirloin steaks), pancakes, French toast, breakfast poutines, grilled cheese,  wraps and clubs, as well as lighter dishes such as a smoked salmon platter.

The daily menu has tasty appetizers, fish and chips, burgers, chicken, Mac ‘N cheese combos, more poutines and a kids menu.

Frost told me he absolutely loves Montreal and visits our city often, always checking out local diners. He is a fan of the iconic Cosmos in NDG. That is why he has a poutine menu item called The Montrealer, with loads of juicy diced Montreal-style smoked meat. There is also the  Quebecer: two eggs, a choice of three pieces of bacon, ham, or sausage, served up with a side of pork beans. 

“I was in property management before I bought the restaurant,” he said. “When I was young I worked for a busy restaurant in the market. So this turned out to be the right move for me.”

For more information log on to www.wellingtondiner.ca  or call 613-798-7800, They are located at 1385 Wellington Street West and open every day at 9 am.

RED LOBSTER: Over the last few years I feel as if I have become an ambassador of the Red Lobster restaurant chain. Yes,  I am a big fan, and as a frequent visitor to Ottawa for family reasons, no visit goes without a trip to Red Lobster on St. Laurent Blvd. just as you enter the city via Highway 417. There is a second location at a mall in Nepean. 

 Red Lobster was indeed a staple in Quebec over 25 years ago. But the company pulled out of our province and given the decision in May to file for bankruptcy does not seem to be in the cards. As of this writing, they were to be sold to Fortress Credit Corp., a lender experienced in restaurant management that has financed the chain’s operations, including a new $100 million loan that allowed it to stay afloat during its bankruptcy proceedings.  

In recent months Red Lobster has closed around 100 restaurants and at least a dozen more are set to shut their doors, none in Canada. It has been reported that mismanagement, competition, inflation and other factors brought down Red Lobster. Thai Union, a global seafood supplier, became Red Lobster’s leading shareholder in 2020. Even though they cut costs and removed longtime, promotions such as  $20 endless shrimp resulted in a loss of  $11 million.    It is reported to be  $1 billion in debt.

I first went to the Red Lobster on St. Laurent Blvd. in Ottawa some 20 years ago when I met the general manager Ian Forrester. When I started returning here for family reasons, I was delighted to see Ian was still there. He was excited to tell me about how many Montrealers come for lunch or dinner, whether they are visiting or just coming in for the evening. Yes, Ian confirms, there are Montrealers who drive in for dinner only. I know a few of them.

Well, I am pleased to report that the Red Lobster on St. Laurent Blvd. is doing just fine. When I arrived for dinner the parking lot was full and the wait for tables was so long, the overflow had to sit on benches outside. Forrester was happy to have me spread the word that the Canadian locations have done very well in recent years and they are not impacted  by the threats of closure. Many people only read the headlines, so naturally, Ian and his team keep getting calls to see if they are still open.

For our most recent visit, the three of us started off with a Caesar salad, some clam chowder and the mouth-watering signature biscuits. You get two per serving and there is an option to order a half dozen more – good to wrap in a plastic baggie and take home to enjoy.   These delicious and soft rolls are not something you will find anywhere else.

For the main course, I chose the lobster, shrimp and salmon meal with a side of rice. The others chose the Ultimate Feast (Maritime lobster tail, garlic shrimp, snow crab legs and Walt’s Favourite shrimp, with rice); and the Twin Maine tails (a pair of perfectly roasted Maritime lobster tails with cole slaw and mashed potato). 

Thanks to Owen Hoyt, the manager on duty that night, for taking care of us.  

You can find many other tempting items on the menu, such as Date Night Feast for Two – two butter-poached Maritime lobster tails, two seven-ounce sirloins, two jumbo grilled shrimp skewers and a shareable Bacon Mac & Cheese, plus a choice of one side for each guest. The Lobster-Topped Stuffed Tilapia features tilapia roasted with their signature

Red Lobster is located at 1499 St. Laurent Blvd. You can call (613) 744-7560  or log on to www.redlobster.ca

A trip to Ottawa covers all of the bases for a good holiday from great museums to fabulous dining experiences

By Mike Cohen

As Canada’s capital, Ottawa is the perfect place to experience some of the country’s best attractions, celebrations and flavors in one welcoming city. With its unique blend of urban and rural beauty, year-round outdoor activities, and vibrant neighbourhoods, the Ottawa region is best explored over three days or more.

THE BROOKSTREET HOTEL

Since opening in 2003, the Brookstreet Hotel in Kanata has gained notice as a luxury property noted for outstanding dining, incredible entertainment, luxurious accommodations,  inspired green initiatives and world-class golf and fitness facilities.

While in Ottawa we had a chance to visit the hotel,  enjoying a delicious lunch on the patio at Perspectives Restaurant. We spent some quality time at the lovely outdoor saltwater pool and I was in heaven in the jacuzzi. When rain cut our date of leisure in half, we were invited back a few days later to resume the pool experience.

For lunch, I had a nicely prepared club sandwich, grilled chicken breast, cheddar cheese, confit garlic aioli, vine-ripened tomato, bacon, Boston lettuce and Nat’s bakery sourdough. The other members of my party started off with some drinks and each ordered lamb barbacoa tacos- two corn tortillas, lamb shoulder slow-roasted in banana leaf, salsa borracha, pickled cucumber, green olives, fresh cilantro and lime.

Stepĥanie Lapensee and Danika Christie of the sales department and fitness centre manager Vy gave me a nice tour of the property, located in the heart of Canada’s largest technology hub. I got a chance to see some of the impressive guest rooms and reception halls.  

The Brookstreet has 276 rooms and suites spaced across 18 floors. Plans do call for the hotel to eventually build a second tower. There is now 30,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, featuring 25 meeting rooms, including three large ballrooms, an outdoor pavilion and the Newbridge Foyer which boasts floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

There are a number of draws here, starting with the  Marshes Golf course and a pond that converts to a skating rink in the winter months. An 18-hole mini golf course is very popular with families. It is no surprise that the NHL’s Ottawa Senators partnered up with the property. Brookstreet is recognized as the official hotel and resort of the  Senators and Canadian Tire Centre, which also includes the title sponsorship to the   Brookstreet Lounge (located at the ice level).  What this also means is if you happen to stay here during the hockey season, you never know which NHL player you might run into.

I was beyond impressed with the on-site Flex Fitness Club, which has 500 members from the community.  Recognized as the ultimate Ottawa gym and fitness studio, it is equipped with extensive fitness equipment, saltwater pools, hot tubs, fitness classes and personal trainers.  Flex Fitness Studio provides a wellness component for those who wish to stay active during their travels.  Members get the advantage of access to the indoor and outdoor pools. The Au Natural Spa looked mighty fine as well.

Located by the eighth green of The Marshes Golf Club,  the 30-foot seasonal outdoor saltwater pool offers a cabana, plenty of deck space and a 12-person hot tub! We were provided with robes and slippers, some comfortable lounge chairs and umbrellas to guard us from the sun.

As Ottawa’s leading public golf club, the Marshes combines the superior layout with the singular natural beauty of the Ottawa area.  The result is a space that holds the distinction of being home to PGA events, as well as a qualified wildlife sanctuary. It’s this inspired mingling of the stunning sprawl of the natural world with our meticulously manicured course that’s made The Marshes more than a premier Ottawa golf destination. This is also a popular venue for weddings, conferences and to share a delicious meal with friends and family. There are 18 and nine-hole courses, plus the Blackbird Falls mini-putt.

If there is one thing I learned from my visit, it’s that I must go back for there is so much more to discover.

The hotel is located at 525 Legett Drive. For more information log on to https://www.brookstreethotel.comhttps://www.marshesgolfclub.com, or call 1-888-826-2220.

AGRICULTURE AND FOOD MUSEUM

Located on a national heritage site, the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum is the world’s only working farm in the heart of a capital city. During my frequent trips to Ottawa for family reasons these past two years, I have chosen different venues to visit. This one was perfect during the warmer season as a number of the animals are outside.

The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to see diverse breeds of farm animals—important to past and present Canadian agriculture—and to learn about the food they eat. In addition to breeds common to Canadian agriculture, such as Holstein dairy cows and Angus beef cows, the museum also has Canadienne and Milking Shorthorn dairy cows and Tamworth pigs. Many other breeds of dairy and beef cattle, pigs, sheep, horses, poultry, goats, rabbits and even honeybees round out the collection.

Museum programs and exhibitions are related to Canada’s agricultural heritage, food literacy, and the benefits and relationship of agricultural science and technology to Canadians’ everyday lives.

Public programming also includes school programs, summer day camps, interpretive tours, demonstrations, and joint undertakings with community groups and associations. On the day I visited, there were busloads of camps and the kids were having a great time.

Some of the exhibitions were eye-openers to even me. Canola! Seeds of Innovation marks the 50th anniversary of canola as a “made in Canada” crop. This is an immersive and interactive exhibition exploring the ingenuity of Canadian plant researchers, who took on the challenge of creating a healthy vegetable oil from rapeseed, a little-known plant that grew well on the Prairies. Following decades of collaboration and hard work, they succeeded in developing one of Canada’s most important crops: canola. Meanwhile, via documentation and videos, the Healthy Oceans for a Healthy Planet exhibit examines the challenges facing our oceans due to pollution, habitat destruction, and overfishing.  Covering over 70 percent of the Earth, oceans help regulate the climate and provide us with food, energy, and livelihoods. Meanwhile, the exhibition From Earth to Us explores how we transform natural resources to meet our needs and wants – and the resulting impact this has on the world around us. Visitors will delve into topics such as mining, materials, metallurgy, energy, climate change, and water resources. Discovery Park is an interactive, outdoor exhibition is accessible throughout spring, summer and fall. Agriculture is a dynamic industry, constantly transformed by human ingenuity and creativity. Stroll through Discovery Park and explore some fascinating agricultural innovations…you may be surprised by what you find!

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to drive a tractor? 

Farming For the Future, our newest exhibition, is waiting for your visit! You can climb aboard a life-sized tractor cab — or enter an immersive, accessible cabin at ground level — to digitally drive a tractor. See if you have what it takes to efficiently plant corn in a sustainable farming operation 

The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum is open year-round, from, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week. It is open on statutory holidays, except December 25. The museum offers free admission from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Reserve your tickets in advance. It is located at 901 Prince of Wales Drive. Info: https://ingeniumcanada.org/agriculture 

PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL

The Ottawa Titans began play in the Frontier League in 2022. They play out of the state-of-the-art Ottawa Stadium. This is minor-league professional baseball. The schedule begins in May and continues through early September. It is a wonderful outing for the entire family, even someone who might not even be a baseball fan. The franchise officials work so hard to offer a fun game day experience. I really enjoyed my night out there, especially coming from Montreal. Our professional baseball team the Expos left 19 years ago. Go to www.ottawatitans.com

DINING OUT

There are so many wonderful choices for dining out. From my most recent trip, here is my culinary report.

STARLING: The historic York on William (YOW) building, which encompasses Starling Restaurant & Bar and Apothecary Cocktail Lounge, represents a must visit The latter are part of a  multiple-dining concepts featuring a rooftop terrace and street-level patio and located in one of the oldest buildings in Ottawa, dating back to 1875. Early occupants included an undertaker, a baker, and a wholesaler, uses which reflects the diverse commercial activity of the ByWard Market in the 19th Century. 

Starling is Ottawa’s new concept which elevates any night out with hand-crafted cocktails and a refreshing, modern menu that draws inspiration from bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Here you step into an inviting and stylish atmosphere, built for creating an incredible experience.

The 12,000-square-foot building was purchased in 2020 for $5 million. Co-owner John Borsten’s business partners in this venture are Pat Charbonneau and Ian Darveshali. It is spread over four levels, with Apothecary, YOW and Starling each catering to different audiences under the same roof and able to serve 500 diners at a time.  The seasonal patios are big draws: one at street level can seat 50 while the rooftop has room for 60. Capacity for both can be increased for cocktail receptions.

We were delighted to get a coveted rooftop table with a panoramic view of the market and were especially fortunate to have head chef Paolo  DiBello visit us on a number of occasions that evening.  The menu here changes seasonally. We found the ambiance, service and food all impeccable and we can’t wait to return for another visit. We will have to try Apothecary and down the line.

Apothecary is described as “a nod to medicinal cures of which bitters, tonics and spirits all play a role. Here they believe in using real botanicals, house-made syrups and tinctures, to heal the body, mind and soul.”

Starling brings you contemporary dishes from timeless classics to personal recipes with a fondness for locality—designed to be loved by one or shared by many.   Their mixologists can serve up a broad range of tasty concoctions, either mixed, stirred or shaken and inspired by local ingredients and international techniques.

Starling is named after a highly social bird that likes to travel in large flocks. That is why you will see decorative bird cages in the restaurant. It was in fact  Sofia Santiso Borsten who created the Starling concept and oversaw the design.     Even the doors they inherited were restored and now serve as a privacy wall for a table near the bar. The same goes for the original lamps, which were repainted.  Of course, the wallpaper features colourful birds.  

We enjoyed a fabulous meal, starting off with some scarlet tanagers from the bar, three ounces of excellence: Dillon’s strawberry gin, brut, apple simple syrup, lemon and strawberries. I also tried the Anthony, a tasty drink minus alcohol containing orange juice, lime, ginger simple and chili peppers.

Following a thorough study of the menu, we began with 12 oysters. They were of good size and did not last long on the serving plate. We then shared some terrific burrata toast, olive oil fried true loaf sourdough, local heirloom tomatoes, fresh burrata and Aurelius fig balsamic.

For the main courses, we chose two absolute winners. The pan-seared six-ounce west coast sable fish was beyond extraordinary. It was served with mint, pea and fine herb risotto. This is a fish we have always enjoyed, yet it is so rare to find on an east coast restaurant menu. It was moist and literally melted in our mouths. The 14-ounce rib eye, medium rare, with loaded mashed potatoes on the side, was another excellent choice. Paolo cooked it to perfection and the Bordelaise Larry sauce was just right to add more flavor.

When it came for dessert we shared the ever-so-rich chocolate mousse, which included brown butter streusel, brunoise mango and strawberry.

Indeed this was a meal fit for a king and rooftop terrace we look forward to experiencing again and trying some of the other delicious-looking items we had to pass on.

Starling is located at 54 York Street in the Byward Market. Hours of operation are  4 pm to 11 pm Tuesday and Wednesday,  11 am to midnight Thursday and Friday and  9 am to midnight Saturday and Sunday. You can call  613.421.0820   or log on to  www.starlingottawa.ca.

MÉTROPOLITAIN BRASSERIE: Last summer I made my first visit to the Métropolitain Brasserie in Ottawa, conveniently located next to the Byward Market at 700 Sussex. That is just steps away from Parliament Hill, 

Home to Ottawa’s largest oyster bar, the restaurant is open seven days a week, serving lunch, dinner and brunch on weekends. When we planned our return summer trip to the Nation’s Capital, this was the first dining establishment on our list.  It was a beautiful evening to once again experience their spacious patio, which is completely covered by a tent-like structure and umbrellas. This way, in the case of rain, the spot usually remains open. The patio can accommodate 125 people while the capacity inside is 300.

The Brasserie presents a  Hill Hour every day from 4 pm to 7 pm for discounted oysters and shrimp, and every Thursday for Buck a Shuck. There is an award-winning wine list and this is considered a prime place for a large event or a romantic dinner for two, adding that certain Parisian flavor.

We started off the evening with some drinks and then took a good hard look at all of the options available among the appetizers.   The small size seafood tower was more than enough for three of us to share. It contained shrimp, oysters, mussels, snow crab, cod croquettes, scallop Crudo and ceviche. Wow, this was a meal unto itself and we savored every morsel. There is a larger platter for four available. 

The burrato toast for two was another treat for the three of us to share. It includes sunflower seed and beetroot pesto, avocado, fried sourdough, sprouts and chili oil.

There is a nice selection of main courses.   I remembered The Duck Confit from my last visit,  an item I do not see available at too many restaurants I frequent. It was superbly prepared, with crispy skin and served with warm potatoes, red cabbage citrus slaw, duck fat fingerling, orange curry sauce and basil.   As for the others, they opted for the fish of the day, some perfectly seared scallops and an order of lamb chops.

While we were quite full, it was pretty hard to resist the dessert menu. We agreed to share the flourless chocolate cake, with caramel sauce and raspberry preserves. It literally melted in my mouth. 

Other items on the menu include burgers bouillabaisse, steak,  spiced impossible meatballs, veal paillard, fish & chips, impossible Italian sausage spaghetti, roasted Arctic char, lobster ravioli, seared walleye, tagliatelle, halibut, mussels and frites,  poutine, baked oysters, albacore tuna tartare and beef tartare, calamari, charcuterie and cheese board, soups and salads, sandwiches and omelets.

This was the perfect evening, with great food, excellent service from our waiter Kelsey and an ambiance that you just can’t beat.

Weekend brunch is available from 10 am to 2 pm Saturdays, Sundays and select holidays.  

The restaurant is co-owned by John Borsten and Sarah Chown, with Mike Poliquin as chef de cuisine. Hours of operation are 11:30 am to 11 pm Monday to Wednesday, 11:30 am to midnight Thursday and Friday, 10 am to midnight Saturday and 10 am to 11 pm Sunday Take-out and delivery service is in place each day from 11:30 am to 9 pm. For more details log on to www.metropolitainbrasserie.com or call  613-562-1160.

LAVENDER GRILL AND LOUNGE: Lavender Grill and Lounge opened in the Byward Market in the summer of 2022, the vision of owner Reza Khakbaz

Lavender, of course, is a light shade of purple or violet. It applies particularly to the color of the flower of the same name. Khakbaz and his team have certainly taken advantage of the connection, from the décor to the coloring of some of the drinks like my blackberry smash tea mocktail, a combination of blackberry and Earl Grey tea,

There are 100 seats inside the restaurant and a nice terrace which can accommodate 20. That is where we sat. The menu contains a touch of Dubai and Iran,  two countries where Khakbaz has lived. But make no mistake, the items to choose from are all very familiar from steaks to pasta.

Khakbaz has lived in Dubai since 2001 and now commutes back and forth. He obtained permanent residency in Canada in 2017 and from that point on he set about seeking a good business opportunity. Ottawa and the trendy Byward Market appeared to be calling his name. In the past, he was a partner in a pizzeria and a coffee shop. This represents his first full foray into restaurants and he has hit the ground running.

“When I moved to Canada in 2014, I lived in Ottawa for nearly four years,” said Khakbaz.  “During that time, I found the ByWard Market area to be a popular destination where people spent time and money. Beyond its popularity, I also had a personal connection to Ottawa as it was the first point of entry for me and my family to Canada.”

How did Khakbaz come up with the Lavender theme and integrate it into so much of the menu and the restaurant design? “As a businessperson who has had the opportunity to travel worldwide and live in Dubai for many years, I noticed that lots of special restaurants gradually opened their branches there,” he responded. “Considering this, I believe the theme I have in mind can work for the area. Of course, we faced several challenges and various changes during the process. I would like to thank my manager Hano.   He has been a great asset, as he significantly helped us in finding the best theme and menu for Lavender.

Hano was there to give us a warm welcome when we arrived. When a chef brought out one of our items, I asked Hon for his name.  “At Lavender Grill, we really rely on teamwork,” he responded. “All of our food and menu are results of the teamwork with direct supervision of myself, using my culinary experience in fine dining restaurants. So  all dishes come from  the Lavender Kitchen Team.”

What are the most popular menu items with clients?  Hano lists  Lavender gnocchi, Lavender ravioli, rib eye steak, grilled salmon and salmon tartare. As for the drinks,   there are the  Lavender Gin and Tonic, Lavender Mocktail,  Sunset Boulevard, Lavender Royale and Kiwi Breeze

Business, says Hano, has been solid. “We are a fast-growing business,” he maintains. “It’s been six back-to-back months that we are breaking our sales records.”  

We began our meal by sharing two bowls of delicious and piping-hot carrot soup among the three of us.  That was followed by a bruschetta, which had a sturdy crust and was firm enough to hold the diced tomato and red onion toppings. We also split the salmon tartare, sushi-grade salmon with chopped shallots, chives, parsley, dill, capers, a  splash of chardonnay,  soya sauce, grainy mustard, tabasco, lemon and lime zest,

While I quenched my thirst with a mocktail (yep I am a safe driver), the two others enjoyed some Lavender royales, containing Saint Germain,  London Dry,  Crème de Violette and Prosecco.

For the main course, I went for the chicken parmesan, tenderized chicken breaded and fried, topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella. It was served with tomato pasta on the side. The portion was so plentiful that I brought back enough to eat for lunch the following day.

As for the others, they sampled the Lavender ravioli and the filet mignon.  The four cheese ravioli was tossed in creamy Lavender sauce and mushrooms, with onions and garlic and topped with Lavender crumbs. The eight-ounce filet mignon was served with a side of vegetables and a garden salad.  For dessert, we shared the chocolate explosion -chocolate cake, topped with chocolate sauce and blackberries.

Lavender Grill and Lounge is located at 47 Clarence Street.  Opening hours are 5 pm to midnight Wednesday to Friday and 11:30 am to midnight Saturday and Sunday.   For more information call 613-569-6605 or log on to www.lavendergrill.com

MARZITELLI’S MONTREAL CONNECTION:   When I first started visiting Ottawa on a semi-regular basis a few years ago, filing restaurant stories, a former colleague from The Suburban Newspaper Christopher Michaud reached out. The  West Island Pierrefonds native was now in the nation’s capital and operating a supper club called Marzitelli and named after his Italian mother.

On my most recent trip to Ottawa, I went to visit with Chris and take advantage of the ever-so-popular Marzitelli Sunday brunch. We sat on the beautiful rooftop terrace, overlooking hopping Elgin Street. Chris’s charming wife Fei helps manage the place and on this day his niece Caleigh was my server. Fei also handles the bar and provides great renditions of classic cocktails and specializes in custom house favourites. Ask about her Amaretto Sour or Fei’s Negroni!

The breakfast was top-notch. Chris recommended I try their Galette au Saumon Fumé: two sunny-side-up eggs, accompanied by a potato galette topped with Norwegian smoked salmon, wafer-thin red onion, sour cream & capers. On the side, you can have some crispy roasted potatoes or a garden salad, garnished with fruit. A Galette is a rustic French tart, but the Marzitelli version looks and tastes a lot more like a latke. “I worked at Chenoy’s on Boulevard St. Jean when I was a student at John Rennie High School,” Chris told me. “I made plenty of latkes in those days.”

I also ordered a clubhouse wrap to take back with me for lunch, marinated chicken breast, roasted peppers, onions, bacon and mozzarella. It was delicious, especially after putting it in the microwave oven for 30 seconds.

Chris left Montreal in 2013 to pursue his love for music and cooking, landing in Toronto. Initially, he built websites and came up with a concept for online orders and deliveries for restaurants, preceding Uber and the other apps. He did that for three years until he decided to open a bar on Yonge Street. When the venue started attracting lineups for its drinks, music and pasta, a neighbouring restaurant took notice and proposed a merger. That arrangement lasted two years before Chris was on the move again, this time to the popular Ontario summer vacation spot of Wasaga Beach where he set up some food kiosks. He returned to Toronto in 2018 and established his first Marzitelli. This was a small operation, but business evolved nicely until the COVID-19 pandemic turned everything into pieces. By the fall of 2020, Chris and his wife decided that another fresh start was necessary and this time it would be Ottawa.  His new version of Marzitelli materialized at some prime real estate at Elgin. The second-floor dining room and lounge can accommodate 220 people, plus 40 on the seasonal terrace. Facing east, it has the distinct advantage of an early morning sun and afternoon shade, for the perfect ambiance and maximum comfort.

Of course, Michaud had arrived in Ottawa with COVID protocols still in place. Patience was required, but with a lot of hard work, Marzitelli has already gained a good following here, featuring performances by some of the city’s best musicians. The dinner menu is noted for excellent pasta dishes, all made from scratch and from the Marzitelli family recipe book, as well as French classics, pizzas, burgers, steak, shrimp, whiskey maple braised salmon, fish tacos, a poke bowl and more.

Chris’s late dad was a musician and his mom was a cook.  On the stage sits Chris’s baby grand piano and it isn’t uncommon to see him come out of the kitchen after dinner service to enjoy a few cocktails with the guests while playing well-known hits. Often, guests are also entertained by one of his many musical friends invited as performers.  In fact, his house band is called the Men From Marz and performs about once a month. It includes Chris and NDG musician Dimo James Papadimitrios.  

​Marzitelli is located at 350 Elgin Street. Hours of operation are 4 pm to 10 pm Wednesday, 11 am to 10 pm Thursday, 11 am to 1 am Friday and Saturday and 10 am to 4 pm Sunday. For more information call 613-870-1377, e-mail; info@marzitelli.ca, or log on to www.marzitelli.ca.

AL’S DINER: My friend Jack has been telling me about Al’s Diner in Ottawa for some time now, a popular spot on Clyde Street that serves breakfast and a whole lot of other menu items all day long. Now that is my kind of place, so it was indeed time to explore.

The place opens at 6 am Monday to Saturday and 7 am on Sundays, remaining open for dinner Tuesday to Friday. Besides an array of breakfast items, the regular menu consists of items like pizza, wings, burgers, salads, fish and much more. They offer quick pick-up and delivery and you can order online at www.alsdiner.ca

There are 110 seats inside and 35 on the patio.   Owner Al Ayoub told me that before the pandemic, the place was averaging about $1,000 a week in orders via Uber, Skip and Door Dash. That quadrupled during the lockdown and has remained constant since.

Al’s parents ran a greasy spoon in this spot called Skyline Restaurant from 1970 to 1975 and then rented out until 1990. At that time Al stepped in, moving on from his profession in sales, gutting the place and rebranding it as Al’s with its present format. “During the pandemic, I repainted the place and made some cosmetic changes,” Al noted. “We also provide catering for sports teams, parties, office events and more.”

The place attracts a lot of regulars. “Those people are here five days a week,” Al said, motioning towards some clients. “We have a great following of regulars, young and old. Kids that were coming in with their parents, are now coming in with their own children, which is great to see.”

Al can also count on the support of his wife Anita, who works as a server and operates the place when he’s not on duty.

I was there for breakfast, of course, comfortably seated on the patio on a warm weekday summer morning.  A lot of restaurants stop this service towards lunch hour, but not Al’s. “You need to have a really good grill to provide breakfast all day,” Al explained. “I am glad I invested in one.”

 Looking at the menu, it was hard to make a choice, but I settled on three slices of golden-brown cinnamon raisin French toast, with sides of crispy home fries, bacon and rye toast with my standard cup of decaf coffee. I also ordered a chicken sandwich to take back with me for lunch. It was delicious.

There are a variety of Al’s breakfast specials. They all come with a choice of home fries, baked beans or tomato slices, as well as toast and coffee. From eggs and omelets to pancakes, waffles and smoked salmon bagels the choices are endless.  I look forward to coming back for lunch and dinner and sampling something among the fish n’ chips, smoked meat club, wraps, hot beef dip, burgers, pizza, chicken wings, lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, shepherd’s pie or veggie spring rolls.

Al’s is located at 834 Clyde Avenue. Opening hours at 6 am to 3 pm Mondays, 6 am to 7:30 pm Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 6 am to 8 pm Thursdays and Fridays, 6 am to 3 pm Saturdays and 7 am to 3 pm Sundays. This is a licensed restaurant that serves alcohol. For more information call 613-761-74988 or log on to www.alsdiner.ca

A DAY AT THE BEACH 

Ottawa has several lovely beaches minutes from the city center.  Our favorite is at Britannia Bay, located on the Ottawa River. It is great for swimming, picnics or just watching the sailboats go by on a beautiful summer day. Key amenities include washrooms, change rooms and outdoor showers; free parking; a canteen; picnic tables and barbecue pits; and play structures and fields. Lifeguards are on duty daily between noon and 7 pm during the summer season. Volleyball net rentals are available for $14.50 per hour or $49.50 per day

VISIT OTTAWA PASS

A new option for visitors to Ottawa launched this summer: the Visit Ottawa Pass is available for adults and children as either a one-day or three-day pass, offering admission to the Canadian Museum of History; Canadian War Museum; Haunted Walk of Ottawa; National Gallery of Canada; the Diefenbunker, Canada’s Cold War Museum; Royal Canadian Mint; and Gray Line Ottawa in summer months (in winter months, Cobblestone Tours takes over). Passes are good for 24 (or 72) hours after their first use. Watch for full details at visitottawapass.ca 

PARLIAMENT HILL

The restoration of Centre Block on Parliament Hill, which started in 2019, continues. A trompe l’oeil has been installed on Centre Block and will expand as masonry work continues through 2023 and beyond, allowing visitors to get a sense of what the building looks like behind the tarps. In the meantime, free guided tours of an architecturally impressive “temporary” House of Commons in West Block and a “temporary” Senate chamber in the former train station next to the Rideau Canal are available year-round. visit.parl.ca

WALKING TOURS

Ottawa Walking Tours now offers a food/art/history tour called the Centretown Neighbourhood Experience. Tours depart from Minto Park on Elgin Street every Saturday afternoon at 2:30 pm until September 30, 2023. ottawawalkingtours.com/our-tours/the-centretown-neighbourhood-experience-food-art-history-tour

For more details on what to do and see in Ottawa log on to  www.ottawatourism.ca.