Union 613 (Review)

Union 613 has been on our list of eats since it opened last year. It's a rather small restaurant in an old house so it's sometimes difficult to get a table unless you plan ahead and make reservations. But let me tell you it is well worth the wait. The atmosphere is rustic but cozy and casual. The staff are friendly (And the real kind of friendly. Not the "you better give me a good tip because I'm being attentive kind of friendly") and they are knowledgeable about the drinks and food on the menu.

Union's theme is a Canadian take on classic southern food with an urban flare and a Prohibition-style ambiance with all the bourbon classic libations to go along with it. Most of the seating is also communal so feel free to strike up a conversation with the hipsters sitting next to you.

The menu's presentation caught our eye as the front page is made of burlap with Union's infamous logo. After visiting Georgia and South Carolina earlier this year, we were comforted by the familiar southern staples that appeared on the menu, such as boiled peanuts, grits, cornbread and fried chicken.


Our classic cocktails came served in mason jars and we were treated to some boiled peanuts while we mulled over the menu. We decided to share a few side and main dish items so we would get the most out of our experience. Our sides for sharing were the cast-iron cornbread with bourbon brown butter ($6) and the cheddar and roasted garlic hominy grits ($5), which tasted as decadent as they sound. The main dishes we tried had some of the most unique flavor combinations including the smoked hog jowl, watermelon & pickled rind with chiles, benne ginger and sorghum dressing ($18); the cracker crusted Louisiana catfish with pecan puree, wilted frisee and lemon ($17); the free range southern fried chicken with pepper vinegar ($14); and the rabbit, scallop and crab skillet with chiles and popcorn ($17).

The food was so delectable and rich but we couldn't pass up sharing some dessert. We chose to try the fried cherry & lavender pie with vanilla bean gelato and lemon gel. There was not a crumb left within 5 minutes, needless to say we weren't quick enough to get a photo.

Cast-iron Cornbread; Cheddar and Roasted Garlic Grits

 Union's atmosphere has an added bonus with a newly added speakeasy in the basement. To stay with their prohibition theme, speakeasies were underground establishments that served alcohol illegally in the United States during the prohibition-era of the 1920s. Obviously Union's speakeasy is totally legal, but the experience of walking through an artificial bookshelf definitely takes you back to that era. Next time you call to make a reservation ask to be seated in the basement.

Union is also one of the only restaurants in the city that continues serving food until 2am so club-goers can fancy themselves a little something extra than the ordinary poutine, pizza or shawarma.

Verdict: A 1920s southern experience. Authentic yet modern food. Young, rustic and casual atmosphere.

Cost: Sharing sides about $5. Main dishes range from $15-$18. Drinks from $10-$15

Hours: Monday & Tuesday 11:30am-2:00pm and 5:30pm-10:00pm. Wednesday - Friday 11:30am-2:00pm and 5:30pm-2:00am. Saturday 5:30pm-2:00am. Sunday 5:30pm-10:00pm

Union Local 613. 315 Somerset Street West. Ottawa ON. 
www.union613.ca
www.facebook.com/UnionLocal613

Slow Cooker Moroccan Stew (Recipe)

Looking for a simple, tasty and wholesome meal? With little prep work involved, you can enjoy this highly aromatic Moroccan Stew served hot and fresh from your slow cooker!

This recipe makes roughly 6 to 7 portions, and can be easily frozen for future meals.

Ingredients:

2 tsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into ½-inch cubes
1 cup carrots, chopped
28 oz can of crushed tomato
½ cup vegetable broth
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp red pepper flakes
Handful fresh basil (or cilantro or mint), chopped coarsely
15 oz can of chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained
1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Directions:

1. Sauté onions in the olive oil in skillet with garlic until onion is tender. 
2. Toss all ingredients (except basil, chickpeas and raisins) into the slow cooker. 
3. Cover and turn to low heat and simmer for 6 hours. 
4. Add the basil, chickpeas and raisins and cook for another 15 minutes. 

ENJOY!

Verdict: Rich and flavourful stew that comes together easily

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (on low in a slow cooker)

Rating: 7.5/10

Art-Is-In Bakery (Review)

Do not despair…Lola and I are still blogging and eating our way through Ottawa and beyond! We have just been busy with our underground search for new recipes and great tastes, but we are now ready to share them with the world!

Recently, we had the opportunity to try Art-Is-In Bakery…which is actually much, much more than just a bakery. Not only do they sell an assortment of fresh baked goods, breads and traditional pastries, cakes and cookies, they also serve a wide selection of gourmet sandwiches, soups, salads, daily flatbread pizzas, as well as a variety of hot and cold drinks.

Tucked away in an industrial warehouse on City Centre Avenue, Art-Is-In is a showcase of modern ambiance and artisanal values. Kevin Mathieson, the mastermind behind this gourmet hot spot, uses only the purest of ingredients and does not believe in rushing perfection. All of the breads sold here are made by hand from start to finish.

When Lola and I first pulled up to this concrete haven, we immediately noticed a long lineup of hipsters, fawning foodies, and in-the-know locals and visitors stretching out from the front door. Clearly we came to the right place for lunch!

Once we made it in, we were engulfed by a divine scent of pastries, breads and espresso. The ambiance was thrilling, with patrons enjoying their food at mismatched tables scattered throughout the loading dock.

The elaborate menu and mouth-watering display of fine pastries, desserts and rustic breads and baguettes made it very difficult to pick just one item. Although I wanted to try it all, I decided to go with the Buttermilk Brined Chicken Caesar Sandwich for $10.95, which consisted of chicken pieces with bacon, havarti, tomatoes, arugula and homemade Caesar dressing. This heavenly creation was served on their special Dynamite cheddar, jalapeno and chive bread, which to my opinion, made the sandwich! The chicken was tender and moist and the bread was perfectly crunchy. This was by far one of the best sandwiches I have tasted in a very long time.

Lola decided to go with the Salmon Gravlax Sandwich with dill, cream cheese, arugula and avocados, which was an item from the Specials menu for $11.95 (specials change daily). For those of you who are new to the word ‘Gravlax’, it is a traditional Nordic dish of raw salmon cured with salt, sugar and dill. Lola’s sandwich was delectable, which was also served on the Dynamite bread.

To satisfy our hearty appetites, we also shared a side salad of mixed leaves and house dressing, and a classic cream soda. We couldn’t resist getting something sweet, and so we ended the meal with a signature cookie. We went with the Trio of Chocolate with Almond – a cookie of white, milk and dark chocolate chunks with toasted almonds. As we enjoyed our meals outside in the sun, our cookie was perfectly heated for optimal enjoyment!

Other lunch items that caught our eye include the pulled pork mac & cheese, crispy pickle melt, flatbread pizza and clam chowder! The Old Fashioned Potato Donut also looked amazing!


It is very clear that many have fallen in love with this culinary gem, especially with the crusty loaves of hand-crafted breads—each one a culmination of careful, patient steps. You too can enjoy their breads without venturing to City Centre, as they are now available at Farm Boy locations across Ottawa. In addition, Art-Is-In participates in various Farmer’s Markets throughout the summer every Thursday through Sunday.

For bigger events, Art-Is-In also provides office catering, as well as rents out the warehouse space for a range of events, whether it be a sit-down dinner or stand-up reception.

Lola and I thoroughly enjoyed our lunch, and will definitely be returning for their Sunday brunch, which is served every Sunday from 9am to 1pm. Apparently, the brunch burger—a fried-egg-crowned beef patty served on a brioche bun—is a must-try!

Verdict: delicious, fresh and pure ingredients combine to create signature creations; raw industrial hipster vibe

Cost: Lunch items range between $6.50-$13.95; pastries range between $2.50-$4.95; cakes $20-$50

Hours: Monday to Wednesday, 7am to 6pm, Thursday to Friday, 7am to 7pm, Saturday, 8am to 5pm, Sunday 8:30am to 4pm

Art-Is-In Bakery, 260 City Centre Avenue Bay 114, Ottawa Ontario
www.artisinbakery.com

Must Kitchen and Wine Bar (Review)

Tapas bars are definitely the craze as sharing dishes and small plates are increasing in popularity. Social dining adds an extra flare of experience as you can taste and share numerous dishes among your dining companions.   

Must Kitchen and Wine Bar is a small spot we've been to a few times and it never disappoints. The menu is quite extensive with numerous small sharing plates, larger dishes, flatbreads, and cheese and meat boards, as well as a number of delicious desserts. They also have a decent wine and beer list and offer "bring your own wine" on Sundays, for a small corking fee. A few of our favourites have been the Scallops, the Empanadas and the Truffle Mac & Cheese.

Scallops - Squash Puree and Crispy Prosciutto 

Empanadas - Red Yucca, Achiote Oil and Espresso BBQ Pulled Pork

Truffle Mac & Cheese 

Must is a really great place to enjoy good food, drinks and great company. They also have space to host private events or parties. We luckily stumbled upon a small photography show, featuring work from Patterson Imagery. They had some wine and food samples and offered an opportunity to speak to the photographer throughout the evening. Some of his pieces featured landscapes and cityscapes from Ottawa, Iceland, London and Vancouver.

Patterson Imagery

Patterson Imagery

Riley and I definitely recommend Must for a variety of occasions as it is perfectly located in the heart of the Byward Market, with friendly and knowledgeable staff, great food and wine selection, and a casual and inviting atmosphere.

Verdict: Delicious selection of tapas, entrees, desserts, cocktails, wine and beer. Highly recommended for the sharing of food and great company.

Cost: Sharing plates range from $7-$11. Main dishes range from $15-$30

Hours: Sundays 5:00pm-10:00pm, Mondays 4:30-10:00pm, Tuesday-Thursday 4:30pm-11:00pm, Friday-Saturday noon-midnight

Must Wine Bar and Tapas. 41 Williams Street, Ottawa, On. 
www.mustwinebar.ca 

White Chocolate and Coconut Truffles / Magnolia Bakery’s Banana Cream Pudding (Recipe)

No dinner party would be complete without an indulgent dessert. Simple to make, these easy yet delectable dessert recipes will make the perfect end to a meal.

White Chocolate and Coconut Truffles

Paired nicely with coffee or tea, these white chocolate and coconut truffles are sure to be a crowd pleaser. They also add a pretty contrast to a plate of dark chocolate truffles.

Ingredients:

180g white chocolate bits
½ cup cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup coconut flakes
1 cup desiccated coconut

Directions: 

1. In a heavy bottomed saucepan, combine white chocolate and cream.

2. On low heat, stir the mixture constantly until chocolate is melted and blended with the cream. This takes about 2 to 3 minutes.

3. Add the vanilla extract and remove from heat. Cool a bit.

4. Add the coconut and mix well.

5. Chill in the refrigerator for 45 to 60 minutes uncovered, or until the chocolate firms up enough to roll into balls.

6. Take 1 tablespoon full of the mixture and gently roll it into a ball with your palms. If the mixture is too soft to handle, add an extra ½ cup of coconut.

7. Roll the balls in desiccated coconut or coconut flakes. You can also use crushed nuts for a dry and delicious outer crumb.

8. Refrigerate until time to serve.

Yields: 20 truffles

Verdict: heavenly combination of chewy toasted coconut and creamy white chocolate ganache

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 45-60 minutes

Rating: 9/10

Magnolia Bakery's Banana Cream Pudding 

Comfort foods come in all sizes – and some even come in mason jars! Sweet, creamy banana pudding just like Magnolia Bakery makes. Once you've made a dessert in a jar, all other desserts officially feel overrated!

Ingredients:

1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1½ cups ice cold water
1 (4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
3 cups heavy cream
1 (12-ounce) box vanilla wafers
8 mason jars

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, on the medium speed of an electric mixer, beat together the sweetened condensed milk and water until well combined, about 1 minute.

2. Add the pudding mix and beat well, about 2 minutes more.

3. Cover and refrigerate for 3-4 hours or overnight, before continuing. It is very important to allow the proper amount of time for the pudding mixture to set.

4. In a large bowl, on the medium speed of an electric mixer, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

5. Gently fold the pudding mixture into the whipped cream until well blended and no streaks of pudding remain.

6. To assemble the dessert, arrange one-third of the wafers to cover the bottom of the mason jar, overlapping if necessary, then one-third of the bananas and one-third of the pudding.

7. Repeat the layering twice more, garnishing with additional wafers or wafer crumbs on the top layer of the pudding.

8. Cover with lids and allow to chill in the refrigerator for 4 hours before serving.

Yields: 8 servings in a regular size mason jar

Verdict: perfectly portioned, pleasing presentation and downright delicious!

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Chilling Time: 7-8 hours

Rating: 8.5/10

Slice & Co. (Review)

As we mentioned in an earlier post, Slice & Co. is definitely one of Ottawa's top dining spots in 2013! Located on Elgin Street, Slice & Co. is known for its amazing pizza, affordable prices and cozy atmosphere! Chef Warren Sutherland is the genius behind this tasty joint, who you may already know from the acclaimed SmoQue Shack!

Unlike most pizza joints which usually specialize in a certain style of pizza, Slice & Co. offers interesting variations of thick and thin crust pizzas that go way beyond the traditional ingredients. You can choose between an Italian hand-tossed pie, a New York pan style, a California thin crust, or even a Chicago deep dish pizza! The menu really offers something for every taste and preference.

We had a very difficult time deciding on what to order, as everything sounded delish, but in the end, we chose three different types of pizzas to share. First, we tried the Italian hand-tossed Puttanesca, which was topped with tomato sauce, capers, red onions, olives, chilis, mozzarella, oregano and garlic. The combination of toppings was surprisingly delicious, and the chilis gave the pie a nice kick! It was definitely my favourite.

Italian-Hand Tossed Puttanesca

The next one we got was the California thin crust BST. This pie consisted of bacon, spinach, tomato sauce, Buffalo mozzarella and parmesan. This pizza really showcased the high quality, fresh toppings used on their pizzas. Cut into small square slices, this tasty, rich pizza was perfect for sharing!

California Thin Crust BST

The last pizza we tried was the Original Chicago deep dish. This heavenly creation was stuffed with tomato sauce, sausage, onions and mozzarella. This pizza was a true indulgence, but the extra calories were worth every bite. Not only was the crust baked to perfection, but it was also perfectly topped and seasoned. With Lola's hearty appetite, this was by far her favourite.

Although we stuck to the pizza, Slice & Co. is also more than just a pizzeria. It is also known for its unique sandwiches, which I must admit, looked amazing! Options vary between the traditional roast beef, Reuben, Philly cheesesteak, meatball or the more creative Chipotle chicken panini, big club, or the muffeletta, which is an overstuffed sub with layers of meat and marinade. To quench your thirst, Slice & Co. also offers interesting cocktails and local beer.

Original Chicago Deep Dish

Verdict: Phenomenal pizza with several fun and interesting options; personable and engaging staff; budget-friendly

Cost: Pizzas range between $14-$28 and sandwiches range between $10-$12

Hours: Sunday to Wednesday, 4 pm to Midnight, Thursday to Saturday, 4 pm to 4 am

Slice & Co., 399 Elgin Street, Ottawa Ontario
www.sliceottawa.com 

Ottawa Foodie Challenge

This past weekend, Lola and I competed in the Ottawa Foodie Challenge. As food bloggers and Amazing Race connoisseurs, this event was perfect for us. It gave us the chance to test our local food and restaurant knowledge, explore the city and discover and rediscover all that Ottawa's culinary scene has to offer.

We scoured the city's central neighborhoods including Little Italy, Hintonburg, Westboro, New Edinburgh, the Glebe and the ByWard Market. During the challenge, we learnt about the best places to eat, drink and shop in Ottawa. We discovered several of the tastiest new additions to the city, as well as where to head for gourmet groceries, delis, bakeries and more.

While we would love to tell you about everywhere we went and everything we tried, the post would be far too long! So instead, we will focus on our favourite new dives where we are sure to return.

Restaurants

Bonita's Cantina 
Tucked away in the industrial park of City Centre, Bonita's is a new food truck featuring Mexican food prepared fresh daily. They offer familiar favourites, some specials and also vegetarian and gluten-free options. During the challenge, Lola and I got to taste their guacamole, which was fresh and delicious.
www.bonitascantina.com 

Hintonburg Public House
Known for its traditional pub fare and comfort food, this chic restaurant has something to please everyone. Their spicy beer nuts and fish and chips are a fan favourite.
www.hintonburgpublichouse.ca

Table 40
Established by the famous chefs/brothers of Fraser Café, Table 40 is located right beside the café and is opened on Mondays for a three-course family-style menu that changes weekly. While Lola and I haven't yet had the chance to try it, we will definitely be reserving an upcoming Monday night to experience this creative culinary experience.
www.frasercafe.ca/table40/

The Albion Rooms
Had it not been for the challenge, we may not have discovered this new gem. Located between the Arts Court and the Novotel on Nicholas Street, the Ablion Rooms have a 'farm to table' motto, featuring local, fresh ingredients and a menu that changes frequently. We got a sneak peak at the food while peeling and pickling quail eggs at this restaurant during the challenge.
www.thealbionrooms.com 

The FarmTeam Cookhouse & Bar
A North American style cookhouse and bar, The FarmTeam is the type of place you can go for locally sourced breakfast with your family, a business lunch with gourmet homemade soup and sandwich combos, or to enjoy seasonal, local Farmer’s dinners with friends.
www.farmteamcookhouse.ca

The Moon Room
Similar to Two Six {Ate}, this lounge is located in Little Italy and features small plates until 2:00am. The menu is constantly changing, yet the chefs continue to keep it interesting. Many have raved about the killer atmosphere and unique bourbon cocktails.

Union Local 316
Another great restaurant on our must-try list is definitely Union! This hipster hang-out specializes in Southern cuisine and everything that goes along with that. Boiled peanuts followed by their signature buttermilk-bathed fried chicken is sure to please any palette. Again, this Southern hot spot is open late until 2:00am.
www.union613.ca

Bakeries (and much more)

Art Is In
The participants of the Ottawa Foodie Challenge were treated with breakfast compliments of Art Is In Bakery. I indulged in a raspberry scone, which was probably the best scone I have ever tasted. But the bakery is much more than just great breads and pastries...it also specializes in cakes, macarons, tarts, and a variety of mouth-watering sandwiches and burritos, including croque monsieurs! You can find this heavenly gem in the industrial park of City Centre.
www.artisinbakery.com 

Nutty Greek Bake Shop
Made fresh and on-site, Nutty Greek offers a wide selection of sweet and savoury treats. They may be known for their Loukournades, which are bite-sized honey drenched doughnuts, however, they also serve an array of other scrumptious meals. We chowed down a fabulous Greek vegetable wrap during the challenge for some extra energy.
www.nuttygreek.com

Simply Raw Express
Located in Westboro, Simply Raw Express offers completely gluten-free, organic, plant-based and mostly raw goodies. They make various fresh-pressed juices, salads, wraps, raw desserts and cheesecakes! This place is ideal for anyone doing a raw detox.
www.simplyrawexpress.com

Suzy Q Doughnuts
Although Lola and I have both had the privilege of trying these amazing doughnuts on a few occasions, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to mention them here. Suzy Q has definitely mastered the art of doughnutry, and she should be thanked for making such edible pleasures. If you have yet to try these doughnuts, we strongly suggest that you go!
www.suzyq.ca

Wine/Beer

Beyond the Pale Brewing Company
Ottawa's newest craft brewery features hand-made and all natural beer with innovative and exciting flavours. During the challenge, Lola and I got to try their signature 'Pink Fuzz' and 'Rye Guy' beer, which definitely had an intriguing taste!
www.beyondthepale.ca

Divino Wine Studio
This welcoming wine bar space in Little Italy is part tasting room, part restaurant, part school. You can take Italian language and cooking clases or indulge in one of their house specials when the studio is not closed for a private function. During the challenge, we had to find the oldest bottle of wine on their wine wall, which exclusively features Italian wine.
www.divinowinestudio.com

Food Shops

Jacobsons 
Located in Beechwood, Jacobsons is a gourmet grocery store, specializing in cheeses, jams, preserves, oils, cured and artisanal meats, wines, pastries and chocolates. Their locally made jam has interesting combinations such as Rhubarb and Black Pepper, Peach Cardamom and Blueberry Lavender....an item we had to track down for the challenge. Everything in the store looked absolutely delectable and we will definitely be returning in the near future to stock up our cupboards!
www.jacobsons.ca

La Bottega 
A modern Italian deli located in the heart of the ByWard Market, La Bottega is one of Lola and I's favourite places! While you can shop-til-you-drop for Italian specialities, you can also grab a delicious sandwich at the deli to go, or sit down at the tables in the back and enjoy the full service lunch counter. Cooking classes are also offered, where you can learn to cook a three-course Italian meal. Also, they've recently launched a special Sunday Brunch from 11:30-2:00pm.
www.labottega.ca

The Red Apron 
The Red Apron is a unique establishment known for sophisticated comfort food. You can either shop their retail store, which carries fresh and frozen meals, fresh breads, fruit pies, cakes, etc., or you can participate in their weekly Fresh Meal service with flexible options to suit your needs. Either way, the Red Apron is a must-try!
www.redapron.ca 

There are certainly a lot more places to discover throughout our beautiful city, which you can find in the latest food edition of the Ottawa Magazine: www.ottawamagazine.com