Having recently returned to the province of Quebec after being away, our friends at A Cook Not Mad realized a lot has changed in the past ten years. The Ottawa and Gatineau (Hull sector) are both vying for a place on the foodie radar. Hip eateries are popping up everywhere rivaling some of the top restaurants out west. They highlight their Top 5 favourite places to eat, and what not to miss when visiting the Hull Sector:
The Black Tomato
The setting is beautiful with a patio in the back courtyard and two dining areas and bar situated in an 1800’s building. Ok so The Black Tomato isn’t new, it’s been around since 1995, which to me means they’re doing something right. They have a great selection of microbrewery beers and wine and new specials daily. The regular menu is nothing to balk at either with succulent duck confit and a cheese plate made up of local cheeses and house made chutney.
The music is a mixed bag, expect to hear everything from Johnny Cash to Spearhead by way of Tom Waits. Feel free to sit at the bar and enjoy the music listening station to discover new sounds.
www.theblacktomato.com 11 George Street Ottawa 613-789-8123
Brothers Beer Bistro
Their offerings of beer on tap and in bottles is extensive, but don’t panic if you’re not sure what to order. The knowledgeable staff can help you pair the beer to your menu choices. The charcuterie plate comprised of pork rillette, smoked duck and speck is flavourful and satisfying. Other notables are the beef carpaccio with smoked corn, capers and carrot chips and the charred BC octopus served with white beans, olive tapenade and pickled celery.
www.brothersbeerbistro.ca 366 Dalhousie Street Ottawa 613-695-6300
Les Brasseurs du Temps
Established in 2009 in Philemon Wright’s 1800’s brewery, this brasserie quickly gained popularity with the local community. Their beers, all brewed on site, are made with quality ingredients. They have over a dozen on tap at all times and sell their bottled beer in stores all over Quebec. Their brasserie style menu includes the mandatory poutine, an awesome flat iron steak frites and very popular bangers and mash.
www.brasseursdutemps.com 170, rue Montcalm Gatineau 819-205-4999
Odile
This is one we’ll be checking out soon. Nestled in what used to be a house, this tiny restaurant, owned by the same people that brought us the equally popular Chez Edgar, brings fresh local ingredients to the table.
The menu and prices change weekly, at time of posting this included braised rabbit with stewed aubergine style caponata, papardelle and pine nuts, Lamb shank sharing plate with elk sausage, porto sauce, mashed potatoes, spaetzle with brown butter and roasted vegetables. They accept walk-ins but with only 18 seats indoors you would be wise to make a reservation.
www.odile.ca 47A Montclair Gatineau 819-205-4425
Au Pied De Cochon
Since 2001 Chef Martin Picard has been taunting us from afar with his foie gras laden menu. His artery clogging dishes have developed quite a reputation and people come from far and wide to stand in line for a chance to taste his swine inspired dishes. Now back on this side of the country, we can’t wait to make the drive to Montreal and gorge on his fatty livers and pig’s trotters. Save us a seat at the bar Monsieur Picard.
www.restaurantaupieddecochon.ca 536 Duluth est Montreal 514-281-1114
Which are your favourite restaurants in Québec and Ontario? Share them with us in the comments below!