Get a taste for Southern hospitality at Union 613

Ottawa Travel Guide

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Thursday, 29 November 2012 16:37

As one of the newest restaurants in downtown Ottawa, Union 613 has climbed the ranks of eateries in the city, impressing critics from all over the country. With communal seating and a funky vibe, Union 613 caters to a vivacious crowd that's willing to get a little raucous during mealtime, whether this means having a few cocktails or sharing an animated conversation with neighbours. A recent review by the Ottawa Citizen deems the menu at Union 613 "solid," with plenty of room to grow.

Luckily for guests at Ottawa hotels, Union 613 is located in a convenient part of the city, and visitors might not even have to take a cab back to their accommodations. The doors open early and close late, so diners can take their time wining and dining with newfound friends, perhaps even making connections with locals who know a thing or two about the best of Ottawa.

Southern charm meets Canadian bites
When Southern food is combined with Canadian staples like poutine, the results are astounding. Who knew that Texas white shrimp could taste so good with grits? Or how about the fried green tomatoes, served with black pepper ranch? And those are just the lunch menu. Diners who come for dinner can feast on apple smoked Ontario trout, Louisiana catfish and Rideau Pines cabbage. The fusion of local ingredients with a bit of Southern flair is simply dynamite.

One word: Bourbon
Southern cocktails are all about the bourbon, and the mixologists at Union 613 definitely know what they're doing. Old fashioneds, Manhattans, mint juleps and the classic bourbon on the rocks are surely on the menu, and even if they're not on the specials list, visitors can rest assured their bartender knows how to make a killer concoction. Be sure to ask the mixologists what his or her favourite beverage is - patrons won't be disappointed.

More than just food
Union 613 works closely with the Ottawa Food Bank to ensure that no one goes hungry in the capital city, especially during this holiday season. With the help of restaurants, the organization provides food to more than 45,000 people per month, and the folks at Union 613 are eager to help the community in as many ways as they can.

Outstanding establishments like Union 613 are just more evidence that Ottawa is unlike any other city in the world - all the more reason to travel to Ontario and check it out.