I’ve been reflecting a lot recently on being grateful, and on what a great city Ottawa is.
So, with that in mind, I’d like to do a best of list, which is HIGHLY opinionated, because it’s not a “user-rated” list it’s MINE, and it’s random.
Best Pizza – Back Lane Cafe. Must be those crazy expensive ovens they put in but this pizza is the best pizza I have had. Authentic Italian-style pizza like I have only ever had in Rome. This pizza is so good that you don’t even need any toppings. I always get the marg but I would eat the crust plane it’s that good
Best late-night drinks – Hintonburg Public House. Despite the fact that the service is terrible, it’s a fun place to go with a great scene, and the cheese curds can’t be beat
Best Beer – Kichessippi Beer Co http://www.kbeer.ca/ They are only a couple years old but have several great beers and do free brewery tours on Saturdays. Stop by the brewery for a growler, it’s located in Ottawa proper near Carling and Churchill. Follow them on Twitter @kichesippibeer
Best newly opened: Brother’s Beer Bistro. Although I don’t frequent the market as much these days, this place is worth the trek. They have a beer-inspired menu with all beers organized by type. It’s a great place to take someone who doesn’t know much about beer because their knowledgeable staff and the menu itself provide a great learning environment.
Best fine-dining: The wellington Gastropub The great thing about this place is consistency. Consistently good service, great food and atmosphere.
Best hopeful: Union is said to open in mid July on Somerset W. I haven’t heard anything about it anywhere on the web but I’m excited because rumor has it they’ll be open late night with a full menu.
Best Bike shop: Kunstadt sports (Glebe). I send my friends here because of their affordable line of house-brand bikes. Even the bigger shops don’t do this, and Kunstadt has a bike of every type, from Road to cruiser and everything in between. These are entry-level bikes but they are great for the price and an excellent way to introduce people to cycling. When they want to upgrade, Kunstadt also has really great higher-quality bikes. The mechanics in the Glebe are also a huge plus because they have 2 senior mechanics working in the same shop. I’ve never had any issues with the quality of work at this shop. If you’re a road cyclist, join them on Mondays at 6 for a group ride, all levels welcome
Service is Central 