It has been a tipsy journey, full of great excuses to get a fancy drink on a week night.  Although I retain some longing for an overly hipster, dim-lit basement in Brooklyn run by a tattooed bartender (or should I say professional mixologist) with a post-ironic mustache, I have discovered some amazing drinks, some cool people making them, and a new appreciation for the small independent and creative spots that are making Ottawa so much more than a boring government town.

1.  Union 613 (315 Somerset St. W.) – Best all around!

I had the lovely opportunity of sitting down with Ivan, one of the owners of Union 613, and asking a few questions.  Turns out he is a straight whiskey man and who can blame him? But he also let me know that “The Ottawa” – a version of which regularly sits on their “Standard” permanent menu – is his personal favourite. The current version, concocted with Centennial Rye, Melleti Amaro, Birch Syrup and Angostura Bitters, happens to be one of my favourites, too.  The 6 rotating seasonal cocktails and the Standards are collaborations between staff, the bartenders and the owners.  Their house cocktails include a hibiscus rum punch and hot spiked cider.  They always have the classic Sazerac (one of my personal favorites), which is not a surprise in a place that does modern Southern food so well.

“People say Ottawa is boring, I say it’s a blank canvas,” says Ivan, challenging a judgmental newcomer like myself.  After a couple of cocktails at Union 613, I couldn’t agree more! For their creativity, continuously new treats, and the fact that they have not one but two amazing bars, (their downstairs Speakeasy being the second), Union 613 gets my vote as #1 Best Cocktails in Ottawa.

2.  The Moon Room (442 Preston) – A Classic Cocktail History Lesson

There are many things to appreciate about The Moon Room. First, the menu has the date and location that each cocktail was invented (The Prohibition: Philadelphia, 1920; The Whiskey Sour: Port of Iquique, 1870). They also credit their own creations, like the Brazzo!, the-no-joke-bourbon-based cocktail I loved on my most recent visit (Bookers Bourbon 130 Proof, Raw W&H Walnut Brown Rare Old Oloroso and West Indian Orange Bitters on top of two enormous ice cubes).  Second, in an industry mostly dominated by men, I can’t help but appreciate the very lovely, predominantly female bar staff (and while we’re getting “more feminine”, I loved their killer style and hair).  They seem to do it all, including taking a blow torch to their bacon wrapped olives behind the bar.  On top of that, they make delicious, heavy drinks – our bartender even asked us if we were driving, warning that the cocktails were strong.  Luckily we were on foot, so we just ordered more! An appreciation for the classics, female empowered mixology, and a concern for personal safety, what is not to love?

3.  The Hintonburg Public House (1020 Wellington St. W.) – Simplicity

The Hintonburg Public House may truly shine as a great local beer haven, but they also know how to keep their spirit-lovers satisfied.  It is a simple small menu, but it’s all delightful, unpretentious and tasty. Kind of like the place overall. They have a rotating seasonal cocktail menu with around four options. I enjoyed the French 75, very classic and well-suited for the finally emergent spring.  On my visit they were also featuring a Manhattan made with Mead Wine.  My last brunch visit there included an expert Caesar.  It may or may not have included red wine as a secret ingredient – but I can’t confirm that for sure.  Either way, it was a very necessary and spicy Hair of the Dog.  I love the homey and casual yet refreshing and creative feel of The Hintonburg Public House, and the cocktails are perfectly fitting match.

4.  Gezellig (337 Richmond Rd.) – Sophisticated Standards

It is not the kind of place one can go to every week, but I was delighted with their short but impressive cocktail menu when I splurged on an anniversary treat there shortly after the opening.  They have a Smoked Manhattan, and I make a habit of loving all things smoked. Plus they make a serious Pimm’s Pint and a classic Negroni – my always enjoyable, routine order.  I would certainly return to Gezellig for another special occasion, and that special occasion would certainly involve a cocktail.

5.  Navarra (93 Murray St.) – Best Margarita

Ok, this place is not cheap, but the food is unique and full of flavor and the Margarita list has got to be the freshest and best in town.  A Margarita is not something I want every day, but there is definitely a time (summer) for one, and there is also a place!  A couple people in my party sampled the “Spicy Pineapple” and it received raves all around.  I would definitely have it again. Another member of our party had the classic and it was a totally perfect execution of a Margarita – tart, salty and boozy.  They also do a Mojito, and a Ginger Gimlet, both of which I would have trouble turning down. To top it off, our waiter could not have been more friendly and chatty, recommending all his favorite spots in town.

Honourable Mentions:

Two Six {Ate} (268 Preston) – Most of the drinks on the menu are a little sweet for me, but I think they please a lot of folks as I have heard good things.  They do have an Old Fashioned – which is crucial – and a few appetizing sparkly drink options. Plus, the food, the prices, and the service are so great, that Two Six {Ate} needs to be included on any of my favorite lists.

Brothers Beer Bistro (366 Dalhousie Street)– Mostly a beer joint, obviously, but they can mix up some classics upon request. The bartender fed me a great Manhattan recently.  They also feature a rotating barrel aged/infused liquor option. It was not ready yet when I asked, but apparently some inspiring flavored gin is in the works and I hope to make it back for a sample.

With a little help from the polling worlds of Twitter and Facebook, we have found some of Ottawa’s go-to poutine destinations.

1-  Sasha’s Chip Wagon. For weeks people have yelled that it is the best without question. Open until 4 a.m., this ByWard Market favourite – tucked between Zaphod’s and Kinki’s is a must at any time of day. The fries are crispy, the gravy is thick and peppery, and the curds are the real, fresh ‘squeak in your teeth’ kind. You may have to wait a bit to get your order (they refuse to serve any fries left out of the fryer a moment too long) but trust me, it is worth every second.

Price – $7

2-  The Standard. The Elgin Street hot spot may not be known for their poutine, but it is definitely worth checking out. Known to frequently change up the ‘ad on’ options (they offered a sausage and spices option one summer – to die for) you always have the option to put a little extra into the fairly medium sized appetizer.

Price – $10

Add ons – $5

3-   The Smoque Shack.  This poutine makes the list for their BBQ chicken gravy, which is unreal. A must try: top it with shaved brisket – you won’t regret that decision for a second.

Price – $10

4-  Elgin Street Diner. A huge fan of Montreal’s ‘shoe-string’ fries, I searched Ottawa for a poutine that had the perfect thin potato. Elgin Street filled this gap in the poutine community. Don’t be thrown off by the black sludge looking gravy: it is as thick as it looks, but delicious. At $8.99 it is a little pricey on its own, but add it as a side to a sandwich for only $3.99 and you get more than you can eat.

Price – $8.99 large; $3.99 with a meal

5-  Oz Kafé.  The token ‘outside the box’ fave. Replacing traditional ingredients with scalloped potatoes, old cheddar and jus and adding toppings like grilled apples, smoked duck and caramelized onions, this “poutine” melts in your mouth. At a great price, all poutine lovers have got to give it a try.

Price – $9;  without the duck – $5

And yes, we know these entries are controversial. Make your case for your favourite poutine below – we’re always up for eating more!

In honour of National Capital Craft Beer Week, we’ve assembled a list of local destinations for discerning beer fanatics. This list is a pastiche of beer landmarks across the National Capital Region. It includes microbreweries, brew pubs, quality dépanneurs, watering holes and bistros that are known to serve an interesting pint along with some fantastic food. We’ve also included a handy map to help you find each of these spots.

This list is certainly not exhaustive, so if you know of something we’ve missed, please let us know in the comments!

With files and concept from Yasmin Nissim.

View Great Ottawa Beer Guide in a larger map

Ashton Brewing Company
www.ashtonbrewpub.ca
113 Old Mill Road
Ashton, ON
613-257-4423

Ashton Brewing Company is a brew pub that operates out of the reputedly haunted Old Mill at Ashton near Carleton Place. Those familiar with local brewing history will be happy to know that Lorne Hart, who once operated Hart Brewing Company out of Carleton Place, is heavily involved. For those who can’t make it out to Ashton, these brews are available on tap at Patty’s Pub (1186 Bank Street) and Quinn’s Ale House (1070 Bank Street) in Old Ottawa South.

Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company
www.beaus.ca
10 Terry Fox Drive
Vankleek Hill, ON
613-678-2799

While not the oldest brewery on the list, many consider Beau’s to be the granddaddy of the region’s craft brewing scene. It’s hard to argue: Beau’s quickly ingratiated itself by providing solid beers, great parties (their Oktoberfest is unmatched) and some smart marketing. Small wonder it’s found on tap in most of the city’s watering holes.

Beyond the Pale Brewing Company
http://beyondthepale.ca
5 Hamilton Avenue North
Ottawa, ON

Beyond the Pale is currently nothing more than a warehouse, some equipment, a website and three guys with a passion for beer. These guys plan to take that passion public this fall when they launch with four challenging, high-alcohol brews. The plan is to start out as a small-batch brewery, with beers available for sale directly from the warehouse and a few local pubs. This is worth keeping an eye on.

Big Rig Brewery
www.bigrigbrew.com
2750A Iris Street
Ottawa, ON
613-688-3336

Big Rig Brewery feels like a slightly upscale sports bar, which makes sense as Senators’ defenceman Chris Phillips is a principal investor in this west-end brew pub. They offer competent beers and a location that is conveniently close to IKEA. Anyone up for tipsy furniture shopping?

Bistro L’Autre Oeil
www.lautreoeil.com
55 Rue Principale
Gatineau, QC
819-682-1221

This is more pub than bistro. In fact, Bistro L’Autre Oeil can likely lay claim to being the best pub for beer enthusiasts in Aylmer by a long-shot. Think of this as a more relaxed version of Pub Italia, with a beer selection that numbers in the hundreds, including many available on draught.

Broadhead Brewing Company
www.broadheadbeer.com
81 Auriga Drive, Unit 27
Ottawa, ON
613-695-9444

Broadhead’s founders describe it as a scrappy little beer company that aims to do big things. They’re quite new to the scene, and so options for trying the beer are limited to a small selection of pubs and restaurants. You can also head to their south-end location to pick up a growler, keg or kegerator.

Brothers Beer Bistro
www.brothersbeerbistro.ca
366 Dalhousie Street
Ottawa, ON
613-695-6300

While Brothers Beer Bistro doesn’t make their own beer, it has quickly become something of a landmark for beer lovers in the region. The brothers serves a wide variety of brews from near and far, and they even use beer in every tasty morsel of food that they serve. A must for anyone looking for a top-notch meal with their pint.

Cassel Brewery Co.
www.casselbrewery.ca
715-C rue Principale
Casselman, ON
613-816-2317

Cassel opened its doors in June of this year, but it’s quickly making a reputation for itself with its Golden Rails honey brown and White Fog brews.  At the moment, you’ll need to head to the Wellington Gastropub to give these brews a shot if you can’t make the trip out to Casselman.

Chez Lucien
137 Murray Street
Ottawa, ON
613-241-3533

Along with a free jukebox stacked with wicked music, Chez Lucien offers great local and imported beers on tap. My personal fave is Blanch de Chambly, a fantastic witbier from Unibroue in Quebec. Like the Manx, the food is solid, but expect to wait for a table on high-traffic evenings.

Clocktower Brew Pub
http://clocktower.ca/

The Clocktower has likely been around for longer than many of our readers can remember. The head-start has allowed them to branch out to four locations, including a new Westboro spot with a massive patio. It’s the perfect spot for west-enders looking to while away the fading days of summer with a pint.

Dépanneur Rapido
43 rue Front
Gatineau, QC
819-684-7345

Dépanneur Rapido was recently brought to my attention by some friends from Aylmer. They had become mesmerized by the wide selection of brews offered in this corner store’s surprisingly well-appointed “Beer Cave”. I looked into it and I can see why. The brews available here are mostly Quebecois in origin, which is nice to see as many of these brands don’t make it across the Ottawa River. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Aylmer.

Hintonbrew*
www.hintonbrew.com
Ottawa, ON
*Not listed on the map

Billed as the Unofficial Official Beer of Hintonburg, not much is currently known about Hintonbrew. But there is a website, and it sounds like there are plans to launch a full-fledged brewery operation sometime in the near future. We’ll be keeping our eye on this one.

Hintonburg Public House
http://hintonburgpublichouse.ca
1020 Wellington Street West
Ottawa, ON
613-421-5087

A relatively recent addition to the Hintonburg landscape, Hintonburg Public House follows a well established formula of tasty pub-grub and a strong selection of local beers.

Hogsback Brewery*
http://hogsback.ca
Ottawa, ON
613-986-2337
*Not listed on the map

To our knowledge, Hogsback doesn’t have a retail outlet or brewpub that is open to the public, so we couldn’t include it on the map. But that doesn’t stop it from offering its tasty brews through other channels, like the LCBO and on draft at various establishments around town. To find out where to try Hogsback beers, visit this page.

Kichesippi Beer Co.
www.kbeer.ca
866 Campbell Avenue
Ottawa, ON
613-728-7845

Kichesippi Beer Co. burst onto the scene in 2010, quickly swallowing up local breweries Heritage Brewing and Scotch-Irish Brewing. They now offer a variety of tasty brews, but foodies should note, this is not a brew pub! While they do offer tours and a limited brewery store, food is not on the menu.

Les 3 Brasseurs
http://les3brasseurs.ca
240 Sparks Street
Ottawa, ON

Les 3 Brasseurs is a chain of resto-breweries based in Québec. Plans are in the works to launch an outlet at 240 Sparks Street this fall.

Les Brasseurs du Temps
www.brasseursdutemps.com
170 Montcalm Street
Gatineau, QC
819-205-4999, ext. 1

If you don’t often venture beyond Ottawa city limits you may not be familiar with what is, in our opinion, Gatineau’s prime beer destination. Located in a historic building that once held an 1800s era brewery, it features a great patio and a wide selection of adventurous in-house beers. If you enjoy the vibe of Mill Street Brewery, Brasseurs won’t disappoint!

Manx Pub
www.facebook.com/manxpub
370 Elgin Street
Ottawa, ON
613-231-2070

Known for its quality pub fare, the Manx attracts a fairly regular crowd of local musicians and artists. To stereotype for a moment, this crowd typically appreciates a good brew. The Manx does not disappoint in this area, offering up a good selection of beers from Quebec and Ontario. It’s best to arrive early; the place is usually packed to the rafters.

Marché Omni
50 rue Begin
Gatineau, QC
819-777-9921

Marché Omni (formerly known as Marché Jovi) is a relatively easily accessible dépanneur that should appeal to Ottawa beer enthusiasts who are looking to get more acquainted with various Québécois styles of beer. They also had a pretty decent selection of branded beer glasses on our last trip.

Mill Street Brewery
www.millstreetbrewery.com
555 Wellington Street
Ottawa, ON
613-567-2337

Mill Street arrived in Ottawa from Toronto in 2011, taking over the historic LeBreton Flats building where the Mill restaurant had fizzled out some time earlier. It was a good fit that quickly became a hit. Expect to have a difficult time getting a seat due to the droves of people who flock there on a daily basis. Nevertheless, beer enthusiasts will want to try their tasty Ottawa-exclusive brews and enrol in the MBA program (Master of Beer Appreciation.)

Pub Italia
www.pubitalia.ca
434 Preston Street
Ottawa, ON
613-232-2326

Pub Italia is another Ottawa beer landmark that has been around for years. Located in Little Italy, people come in droves for imported and trappist beers. There’s less of an emphasis on local beers, but brew-heads will definitely find something to like here.

Wellington Gastropub
www.thewellingtongastropub.com
1325 Wellington Avenue
Ottawa, ON
613-729-1315

More bistro than watering-hole (some people take exception to calling it a true gastropub) this fantastic eatery takes beer seriously. For years it has offered up a rotating cask of craft beer, and more often than not they select an interesting Ontario beer that locals might not be familiar with. The rest of their beer menu is nothing to sniff at either. Don’t skip out on a meal, as the food and service are always top notch.

Help out Fiona (and your fellow cheapskates) by suggesting free or cheap recreational activities that we may have missed in the comments!

PICKUP SPORTS: FRIENDLY GAMES THAT ARE CASUALLY ORGANIZED AND COST NOTHING!

There are numerous soccer, basketball, ultimate frisbee, and football pick-up games throughout the city. All it takes is the initiative to ask if a game is a league game or a pick-up game and if you can join.

We have included a sampling of pick-up games around town:

Soccer

The Ontario Soccer Association’s (OSA) Soccer and Settlement project runs several soccer programs in different communities across Ottawa. Contact Javier Clavelo at jclavelo@soccer.on.ca or at 613.233.6561 ext 228 for more details.

Held on the last Sunday before Canada Day, the Community Cup is a day-long event designed to engage the community and reduce isolation and challenges faced by many newcomers. It is recreational co-ed soccer tournament bridging and connecting cultures, ethnicities, and generations.  More info: www.communitycup.ca. Tel (613) 232-9634.

There’s also several regular pick-up soccer games happening around the city:

• MacDonald Garden Park (Wurtemburg & Heney St), Mon-Wed, Fri, 6pm to 8pm
• NRC (Montreal Rd. and Blair Rd.), Sun, from 1- 3pm
• Chamberlain Park (Chamberlain Ave. and Lyon St.), Sun 1- 3pm
• NRC (Montreal Rd. and Blair Rd.), Tues-Thur, 12:30- 2pm
• Brewer Park (Bronson Ave. and Brewer Way), Fri, 6-8pm
• Ottawa U Sports Complex (Templeton St.), Sat, 11am- 1pm

Cycling

Ottawa has a great network of bicycle paths.  You can pick up an affordable refurbished bike from Cycle Salvation ($40-$70 473 Bronson Avenue (near Gladstone,) or  sometimes on kijji.com you can get your hand on a free bike from someone who no longer rides it.

Useful links:

• http://www.canadascapital.gc.ca/things-to-do/cycling,
• http://ottawa.ca/en/roads_trans/cycling/cycling_map/index.htm

MEC hosts a free Cycle Meet up every Thursday at 6:30pm, starting from 366 Richmond Road. Call 613.729.2700 for more details

Jogging

Ottawa has numerous routes that are fun to jog including the experimental farm, along the rivers or in the greenbelt or simply the streets in your neighbourhood.  The main cost is a good pair of running shoes, you don’t want to scrimp on those because you could pay for it later in foot or knee injuries.

There are also a number of Group Runs taking place around town:

• Euro-sports, 13 Bullman (off Parkdale Ave) Street ,  Mon 6 pm start, Website: www.euro-sports.ca
• Mountain Equipment Coop, 366 Richmond Road, Ottawa, Ontario  K2A 0E8, 613.729.2700, Thu 6:30PM
• Running Room Glebe, 901 Bank St. , Ottawa K1S 3W5, 233-5617, Wed.: 6:00 p.m. & Sun.: 8:30 a.m
• Running Room Downtown, 160 Slater, Ottawa, K1P 5H8, 613-233-5165, Wed.: 6:00 p.m. & Sun.: 8:30 a.m
• Running Room Kanata, 484 Hazeldean K2L 1Z4, 613-831-4409, Wed.: 6:30 p.m. & Sun.: 8:30 a.m
• Running Room Orleans, 260 Centrum Blvd. K1E 3P4, 613-830-7539, Wed.: 6:30 p.m. & Sun.: 8:30 a.m

Walking

Walking is a great activity you can do it alone or in a group, all you need is a reasonable pair of shoes. Most walking groups are free.

• Merivale High School, Get W.I.T.H. It  613-727-7070, Tues and Thurs,  Nov- May, 6 to 8 pm
• Dempsey Community Centre Indoor Walking Club, 613-247-4846, Mon, Wed, Fri 10:30 – noon
• Hintonburg Walking Indoor Walking Club, 613-798-8874, Mon-Fri 9- 10 am
• Superdome at Ben Franklin Park Indoor Walking, 613-829-3663, Mon, Wed, Fri,  8-10 am,Tues, Thurs 2- 4 pm
• Superdome Bearbrook Road Indoor Walking, 613-590-1660, Mon, Wed,   Friday 8-10 am,Tues, Thur 2-4 pm
• Ottawa-Carleton Volkssporting Association, 613-824-1583, Special walk outings weekly
• Ottawa Voyageurs d’Ottawa Walking Club, 613-824-7332, Special walk outings weekly
• Richelieu-Vanier Walking Club, 613-580-2424 ext. 36058, Tues, Thurs 9-10 am
• Sweet Beat Walking Group McNeil Pharmacy Carling Ave, 613-722-7679, Friday noon to 1 pm
• Sweet Beat Walking Group White Cross Dispensary Elgin St, 613-233-4029,Tues, noon to 1 pm
• Nepean Nomads, 613-828-3216, Special walk outings weekly
• Centretown CHC Outdoor Walking Group Cooper Street, 613-233-4443, Friday 1 to 2:30 pm
• Rideau Trail Association Ottawa Club, 613-825-2225, various (Membership $25/yr)

If you prefer the indoors, there are plenty of “mall walking” groups you can join

•  Bayshore Shopping Centre – Heart Walk , 613-829-7491, Everyday 7 to 9 am
• Billings Bridge Shopping Centre – Pacesetters, 613-521-6740, Mon to Fri 7:30-10 am
• Carlingwood Shopping Centre – Walk A Mall, 613-725-1551ext. 231, Everyday 6:30- 9:30 am
• Lincoln Fields Shopping Centre Walking Club, 613-828-3783, Please call
• Merivale Mall – Trekkers Walking Club, 613-226-1290, Mon-Sat 7- 9 am, Su 11 – noon
• Hazeldean Mall Walking Club – In Club Mall Walkers, 613-591-1294, Mon- Fri,7:30-10:30 am
• Place d’Orléans – Mall Walking Club, 613-824-9050, Tues, Thur 8:30-10:30 am Oct- May
• St. Laurent Centre, – Wild About Walking Program, 613-580-6744 ext. 26189, Mon, Wed, Fri mornings – Year round
• Westgate Shopping Centre Walking Club, 613-722-3433, Please call

Geocaching

Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game. Serious geocachers will probably want to use a GPS unit, which can be pricey, but if you have a smartphone there are many geocaching apps you can download for pennies (some are even free). They’ll do the trick if you’re just after an afternoon of fun! The pastime involves using GPS coordinates to find hidden containers, called geocaches, and then logging your finds online. The containers contain a logbook for you to sign, and sometimes a small, inexpensive prize. Each time you take something from a geocache, you should leave something behind for the next person. Geocache coordinates can be found at a number of websites, the most prominent one being www.geocaching.com. Basic membership to geocaching.com is free and lets you search for nearby geocaches using your postal code.

Website: Ontario Geocaching Association.

Tennis

There are over 100 free tennis courts in Ottawa.  You can get ahold of an affordable secondhand tennis racket through kijiji, garage sales or second hand sports stores.

Check this list of public courts: http://ottawa.ca/en/rec_culture/park_facility/parks/tennis/ or phone 311

CITY OF OTTAWA

The City of Ottawa offers help with program fees so that all residents can take part in recreation and culture activities regardless of their ability to pay. If you are already a participant in a community or social service agency program, or if you are an individual or family with a low-income, you may qualify for the Ottawa Hand in Hand recreation and culture fee support program. For more information on the Ottawa Hand in Hand, Recreation and Culture Fee Support, please click here or phone 311

Recreation Guides: http://ottawa.ca/en/rec_culture/class_activity/reg_mem/courses_available/rec_guide/index.html

Recreation centres: http://www.ottawa.ca/en/rec_culture/park_facility/facilities/rec_centres/index.html

YMCA HEALTH, FITNESS AND RECREATION CENTRES

The National Capital Region YMCA-YWCA is Ottawa’s leading resource for health, fitness and recreation, child care, camping and outdoor education, and social services. Subsidized rates based in income are available http://www.ymcaywca.ca/Families/healthfitness/program-guide-adult

http://www.ymcaywca.ca/membership-rates/

Taggart Family Y: 180 Argyle Avenue, Ottawa, ON K2P 1B7 / Tel: 613.788.5000

Carlingwood Y: 200 Lockhart Avenue, Ottawa, ON K2A 4C6 / Tel: 613.729.7131

Downtown Y: 99 Bank Street Sun Life Financial Centre, Level B1 Ottawa, ON K1P 6B9 / Tel: 613.233.9331

Kanata Y: 1000 Palladium Drive (Scotiabank Place) Kanata, ON K2V 1A4 / Tel: 613.599.0280

Nepean Y: 1642 Merivale Road (Merivale Mall), 2nd floor Nepean, ON K2G 4A1 / Tel: 613.727.7070

PUBLIC SWIMMING AT CITY OF OTTAWA INDOOR SWIMMING POOLS

The City of Ottawa offers Standard Category public swims at the following indoor facilities, year-round. Swims in the Standard category are ($10 or less for a family of four). Standard swim prices: family admission (maximum 2 adults) $1.90 per person (tots 2 and under get in for free).

The City of Ottawa also offers Leisure category public swimming year-round. Leisure swim prices: $2.90 per person, tots 2 and under get in for free.

PUBLIC SKATING AT CITY OF OTTAWA ARENAS

City arenas offer public skating, family skating sessions, adult skating sessions, 50+ skating sessions and pick up hockey for adults.

Schedules vary by arena. All arenas offer skating from October 1 to March 31; some arenas offer skating year-round. See website for details. Check individual arena listings prior to going as schedules are subject to change. Public skating fees are $6.75/family (2 adults, 2 children).

Website: List of City of Ottawa Arenas: ottawa.ca/arenas   Search Public Skating Schedules: ottawa.ca/skating

The result was our five picks for the best videos to have come out of Ottawa. For our purposes, ‘local’ means that the artist either considers Ottawa their hometown or that they currently reside in the city.

THE ORGANIZED RHYMES AWARD FOR BEST RAP VIDEO: Jesse Dangerously – Bring your girlfriend to rap day

Click here to view the embedded video.

Ottawa stole Rap Legand Jesse Dangerously from Halifax and we’re not giving him back. “Bring your girlfriend to rap day” is hilarious, the type of song you’ll listen to again and again to catch all the clever lines, and this fun video really helps to bring the song to life. I really identify with the girlfriend, since I also think that I could rap if I really tried (it’s just talkin’). A video in the best tradition of Ottawa native Tom Greene’s Organized Rhymes.

Runner up: Kool Kris – Show Stopper

SPINS AND NEEDLES AWARD FOR BEST DYI STYLE: Kalle Mattson – Thick as Thieves

Click here to view the embedded video.

Watch this video, then guess the budget. With $200, a basketball and a few hours of time, the team of animators came up with something that blows away $1,000,000 worth of gyrating ladies in fancy costumes (no disrespect Beyonce). The song is catchy, the animation is cute and funny and there’s a little something for everyone (Monkeys! Pirates! Killer Robots!). The video has reached 1,000,000 views spread out over a variety of video sharing sites. Kudos to animators Kevin Parry, Carla Veldman, Andrew Wilson and Andrea Nesbitt.

Runner up: Amos The Transparent – Sure As The Weather

THE JIM CUDDY AWARD FOR A VIDEO FEATURING JIM CUDDY: Kathleen Edwards - I Make The Dough, You Get The Glory

Click here to view the embedded video.

This is probably the most Canadian thing I’ve seen in a while: Hockey, folksy singer song writer, the CBC and of course a guest appearance by Jim Cuddy… The only thing missing is a bottle of maple syrup and a dancing moose. Hometown favourite Kathleen Edwards’ fun video is the perfect thing to watch while sipping a cup of Timmy Ho’s on Canada Day.

Runner up: Jim Bryson - Somewhere Else (Also featuring Jim Cuddy)

THE OK GO AWARD FOR BEST CHOREOGRAPHY: Hollerado - Americanarama

Click here to view the embedded video.

OK GO shot to fame on the back of their incredibly cool videos (here’s the most famous example). Helped along by video genius Greg Jardin, hometown rockers Hollerado look set to accomplish the same feat. This isn’t just one of my favourite videos by a local band, it’s one of my all time favourites.

Runner up: Hollerado - Got to Lose

THE SPIRIT OF OTTAWA AWARD: My Dad Vs Yours – Happy Wanderer / Carry The Weight

Click here to view the embedded video.

There’s something about this video that captures the spirit of the city: a stolid exterior masking a bunch of kids-at-heart who just really want to go play in the snow. The aftermath of the recent budget announcements makes the video, which won best music video at last year’s Ottawa International Film Festival, even more poignant and topical.

Runner up: The Joynt – CapCity (Ottawa Song)

THE FRANKY WANTS A DANCE CATEGORY AWARD: Jokers Of The Scene – Baggy Bottom Boys

Click here to view the embedded video.

While Fool’s Gold JOTS now travel the world with their beats, they’re originally from Ottawa and the psychedelic video for Baggy Bottom Boys was even partly shot in the city. Heck, I think I even recognize a young LeChampionDuMonde in there!

Runner up: Bonjay – Stumble

We couldn’t stop at just five… here are a few of the other suggestions off of facebook and twitter.

The Murder Plans – Tell a Lie
The Love Machine – Love is on your side
Amanda Rhéaume - Better Days
Craig Cardiff - When People Go
The Claytones – Won’t Let Go

What did we miss? Did we get it tragically wrong? Let us know in the comments.

Anyone who knows me at all knows that I have a small infatuation with tacos.  OK…maybe not so much an infatuation, but rather an outright obsession.  I can’t help it.  And I’m not talking Old El Paso or Taco Bell here…I’m taking handmade soft corn tortillas, fresh ingredients and traditional flavours.

My problem started years ago with travel through California and Mexico.  I was introduced to what tacos REALLY should taste like, and since then I’ve been ruined.  Whether it’s LA style carnitas, Baja fish tacos or even the pork brain tacos of the Mercado Hidalgo in Tijuana…it’s all beautiful and delicious.  After my last trip to Southern California I came home and immediately bought a tortilla press.  It’s taken several failed attempts and endless nights slaving over a hot stove, but I think I’ve finally gotten the hang of the tortilla.  Since then I’ve been putting basically anything I can into a tortilla and subjecting close friends to “taco parties” against their free will.

Up until recently, there were few worthwhile taco options in Ottawa.  But that all seems to be changing now.  We’ve got a long way to go to catch up to other large cities, but that’s typical for our local food scene.  So, for now let’s just enjoy what we have and support our local “Taquerias”!

Here’s where you can find some of Ottawa’s best tacos;

The Piggy Market is a craft butcher and gourmet food store in Ottawa’s Westboro neighborhood.  They have a daily lunch counter which offers tacos every Thursday. The handmade tortillas and succulent local meats make for one of my favorite stops through town.

Piggy Market's Cochinita Pibil Taco.

Stone Soup Foodworks, Ottawa’s lone gourmet food truck does Taco Tuesday every week.  Situated on  Marie Curie Dr on the University of Ottawa Campus Monday through Friday lunch, this truck has become a hotspot for streetfood loving students and professionals seeking fresh and healthy alternatives to fast food.

Stone Soup's Beef Tacos.

The Whalesbone offers fish tacos during their famous “Brown Bag Lunch” every Tuesday to Saturday 11-2pm at their Kent St retail location.  This local institution in sustainable fish supply is the place to go if you love seafood in your tortillas!

Whalesbone's Octopus Tacos.

TacoLot is the newest kid on the scene and on their first day last week they were already sold out by 1:30pm.  Although they have yet to set up a website or social media accounts, they can be found in on Wellington St in Hintonburg, right beside Suzy Q Doughnuts (which makes for a very tasty combination).  Hours are12-9pm, however since they are just getting started it is likely that for the time being those hours are no guarantee.

TacoLot's pork tacos.

Los Tacos de Mauro aka DiscoTaco is a hidden gem at 349 Dalhousie St. in the Byward Market. Sharing space with a Latin Discoteka, they are open 11-9pm Tuesday to Friday.  Here Mauro Rosario’s tacos are served along side other traditional favorites like chile rellenos, tamales and tortas.

Lamb, Chicharrón, and Chicken tacos.

Mercado Latino on Montreal Rd in Vanier is a specialty grocery store that cooks up tacos every Saturday from 12-2pm.  Don’t be shy to ask about the tacos, they aren’t advertized anywhere.  There is likely only one meat option available, so just tell the store clerk how many you want and she will head to the back to whip them up.  There is a small table located in the front where you can sit and enjoy lunch, or they will pack it up for take out as well.  It’s deliciously messy and the most authentic street tacos you can get in Ottawa.

Mercado's Tacos de Pollo.

So there you have it. There are a couple other restaurants with tacos on their menu, but in my humble opinion these are the ones most worth your while.  It’s a pretty good start for our to city really embrace the taco, and I’m glad I am no longer alone in my obsession.

If you think we’ve forgotten any great tacos in the city, leave us a comment!

Since we here Apartment613 (and our vocal readership!) have already paid tribute to Ottawa’s best used bookstores, perhaps it’s time to cast an eye at their competition and acknowledge the best not-used-but-still-independent bookstores in the capital. If you don’t want to give your money to a megachain like Chapters, but still crave the smooth matte feel of a pristine trade paperback, the satisfaction of cracking open an unbroken hardcover spine, or even just a heady whiff of that new book smell, check out these alternatives:

Collected Works (1242 Wellington St. West, near Holland Avenue).

Brilliantly combining two staples in every reader, writer, and student’s life – words and caffeine – West Wellington Village’s Collected Works is both bookstore and coffee shop. It serves tasty lattes and delicious reading material in the same cheery, comfortable location. Its stock emphasizes fiction and creative writing (novels, poetry, children’s books) which you can browse and purchase both in-store and online. And it also recently doubled in space. But perhaps its most appealing aspect is the impressive variety of community events it offers: from art shows to author appearances to open mics to book club meetings, Collected Works hosts around a dozen different events a month.

Nicholas Hoare (419 Sussex Drive, near St. Patrick Street)

Across the street from the National Art Gallery, Nicholas Hoare’s Ottawa location (there are stores in Montreal and Toronto as well) is spacious and beautiful. The gleaming wooden shelves and colourful table arrangements artistically showcase an eclectic but nevertheless quite varied selection. Apparently reflecting the store owner’s personal tastes, there’s an overall emphasis on “mostly British books,” as the website tells us. The site maintains the charm of the actual store. While online ordering is not a possibility (Nicholas Hoare encourages a personal experience), there you can find not only useful inventory catalogues and event listings but also video book reviews by Hoare himself, who dons a bow tie and sumptuous suit jacket to deliver snappy two and a half minute book promos.

Perfect Books (258A Elgin St., near Somerset Street West)

Small and unpretentious, Centretown’s Perfect Books focuses on fiction but offers a smattering of other subjects including history, biography, and politics. The store’s motto is “Proudly Canadian, Fiercely Independent,” and it lives up to this bold statement by soliciting self-published works by local authors. I always enjoy the staff reading recommendations, which seem to be updated every time I go in. Taped to the shelves on endearingly hand-written cue cards, they’re complete with exclamation points and underlining to convey the recommender’s unbounded enthusiasm for the work in question.

Books on Beechwood (35 Beechwood Ave., near McKay Street)

Like Perfect Books and Collected Works, New Edinburgh’s Books on Beechwood is also a haven for local authors and those interested in the Ottawa literary scene. Offering an impressive variety of both fiction and non-fiction, the store helps to spotlight Ottawa-based authors by showcasing them in regular book signing events. The store also runs a monthly book club and hosts a weekly story hour for neighbourhood children. I find the staff here both helpful and kind. Weeks after I had purchased – and of course lost the receipt for – a volume of Ngaio Marsh mysteries, I discovered it contained a major printer’s error. When I brought this to the store clerk’s attention, I was promptly and without question offered a replacement copy!

Mother Tongue Books (1067 Bank St., near Sunnyside Avenue)

While it’s not one of my most frequented stores because of its very small size – and hence quite limited selection – Mother Tongue definitely deserves a shout-out here. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to order anything you want that they don’t have in stock. What’s more, Mother Tongue primarily specializes in material that doesn’t often appear in the more mainstream independent bookstores mentioned above – so if you’re looking for books in feminist theory, First Nations writing, or lesbian and gay literature, this is the store for you.

Octopus Books (113 Third Ave., near Bank Street)

So, Octopus Books doesn’t officially make this top five list – but only because I haven’t been there in years. From what I can recall, however, (and from what the internet tells me), it’s certainly one of Ottawa’s more unusual independent bookstores, focusing primarily on politics. Octopus Books is described on its website as  “a forum for radical and revolutionary voices, local authors, small presses, and writers from a variety of countries and cultures.” They’ve also been a sponsor of Apt613′s annual fall fiction contest.

Want to share your more up-to-date impressions of Octopus Books? Any other independent gems out there missing from this list? Let us know in the comments!

Squinting to see spring, but still too creeped out to have your cornea lasered? Ottawa has a few great independent eyeglass stores to frame up your peepers in style.

For the practical-minded, there’s Pflug Optical (1580 Merivale), an Ottawa staple for over 30 years. They offer classic shapes with small quirks (e.g. standard rectangle frame in vibrant green). Pflug is a great place for those having trouble picking out frames on their own. Excellent customer service and honest opinions are abundant at this shop.

If Elton John lived in Ottawa (imagine THAT?), he’d buy all his glasses from Optical Excellence (779 Bank). Exotic-takes on the cat-eye, intricate European designs: each frame is like piece of art, and priced as such. Ironically though, Optical Excellence offers great prices for refitting old frames with new lenses, so it all balances out.

Eyemaxx (237 Elgin) is also a great choice. It’s a clean, uncluttered store that still has oodles of options— from funky plastic to basic metallic. If for no other reason, you should check them out because they are the only store in Ottawa that carries super sexy Salt brand eyewear; a hot eyeglass company with moderately priced.

For those still looking for something different (or cheaper), there’s always the vintage route. Aunt Olive’s (209 Glmour) offers up the odd frame (average price $20), and you can sometimes get lucky at Young Jane’s (203 Dalhousie) and Ottawa mega-consigner Ragtime (43 Flora).

Did we miss your favourite eyeware store? Let us know in the comments!

I’m not really a team player. Oh sure, I work well enough with others, but when it comes to team sports, I’m inept and get sulky when I can’t play well (which is pretty much always). But like many of you out there, I like to stay in shape. While Ottawa has lots of conventional fitness options such as going to the gym, running, and pumping iron, I’ve come to realize that our fine city offers many more, uh, alternative fitness options. Below are some options for getting in shape in strange and wonderful ways.

Trampolining

Round a quiet parking lot in the back of a building exists a room of ‘bounciful fun’. With six Olympic-sized trampolines, Spring Action Trampoline Club provides a most excellent venue for bringing back that jumping on the bed feeling, except way higher and with flips! You can sign up for lessons, do drop-in classes, or even compete. Each class is staffed with experienced trampoliners so you can learn safely, and there’s even an adults-only session so you don’t have to be shown up by eight-year olds. They also offer party bookings, so you can grab 15 of your closest friends and reach for the sky (or seriously injure yourself).

Stilting

At a diminutive 5’2, I’ve always wondered what it would be like to tower over everyone else. Imagine the power! The fame! The glory! Okay, a few extra inches might not make that happen, but being taller is pretty freakin’ cool, and you can get this experience by learning how to stilt with the Ottawa Stilt Union. Although they don’t offer regularly-scheduled classes, they do host occasional workshops. Contact them to find out more.

Hula-hooping (also known simply as “hooping”)

Remember when you were a kid, and you’d hula-hoop as long as you could (which, in my case, would be approximately three seconds before the hoop would fall to the ground and I’d be left standing there shaking as if I was having a seizure). Well, now you can bring back those happy memories, and get fit too! Mini-Cirque, a circus and performance art school, is offering beginner hooping classes starting April 6th. Sorry fellas: this one’s only for women. However, other places offer classes around town in case you boys wanted to get your hoop on.

Spinning Poi

Mini-Cirque also offers Poi Spinning classes. Originally from New Zealand, poi involves spinning weighted balls at the end of a rope or a piece of fabric. It sounds simple, but poi can be tricked out to include LED lights and glow-in-the-dark materials. And for you pyros out there, you can even spin with fire. Spring session starting soon!

Roller Derby

This one is also for ladies only – ladies who like to cuss, jump, hit, and dress up fiercely in ripped tights, skirts, kneepads and helmets. Roller derby involves racing around a track, with one member of each team (the “jammer”) lapping the other team. It’s fast, aggressive, and lucky for us, Ottawa’s got not just one but two teams. Sign up for an open house to learn the basics and become “fresh meat.” Then, fill in for other players as a “free agent” and graduate to a full-fledged house-league team member.

Swordfighting

Have you been told that the Lord of the Rings is fiction? That you can’t be the next Braveheart? Well, now you can turn and laugh at those naysayers by learning how to sword fight. There are both Japanese and Western (European) styles being taught in Ottawa.

Japanese sword-fighting lessons in Ottawa include Kenjutsu, also known as “sword art”, as well as Kendo and Iaido, modern sword-fighting based on traditional techniques. Click here and here for more info.

For lessons in western or European styles, you can take traditional fencing classes through the EXO Ottawa Fencing Club. There is also a course in “chivalrous sword handling” offered at the Plant Recreation Centre. The spring session starts April 10th through Ottawa Parks and Recreation. Can’t get enough? You can also join the Ottawa Medieval Sword Guild and put your new skills into practice. They aren’t accepting new members now, but keep an eye on their website to find out if vacancies open up.

Got other strangely spectacular ways of getting in shape? Post your suggestions in the comments!

Carlington Park Ski Hill – Carlington off Carling Avenue

To my knowledge, this is the only former ski hill in the city’s west end. Operating until the 1970s, Carlington Hill now annually gets taken over by the bravest of tobogganers. It’s very steep, and for anyone over 12, the unused chairlift is very tempting. There are usually many jumps carved into the snow, and you’ll often see a few snowboarders trying to get some curves. Essentially, Carlington Hill is two hills in one, the highest being the steepest and showcasing a platform before the second hill. Sure, there are lights for nighttime sledders, but again, this hill is not for the faint of heart. (OC Transpo riders will be happy to know, however, that the #14 takes you right there!)

Experimental Farm Hill – the Arboretum, Prince of Wales Drive

While the Experimental Farm hill serves as a beautiful lookout during the fall, come first snowfall, it turns into an exceptionally popular sledding hill with different grades of steepness and the potential for thrilling, dangerous spins. It’s a great hill to get your Winterlude spirits going, since if you aren’t too sore after a day of tobogganing, Dow’s Lake and the Rideau Canal are both within walking distance. Be warned, however: There are trees dotting the hill’s landing spots, although they get wrapped in straw by the NCC during the winter so you don’t feel quite so much like a human pinball.

Hog’s Back Park – off Prince of Wales’ Drive in Nepean

The hill at Hog’s Back Park might not be huge, but is excellent training ground for some of the city’s bigger ones. It’s a great site for parents with small children – the snow is always covered with hundreds of little boot imprints. There’s also a chain-link fence at the bottom that many a kid has faceplanted into (including this writer).

Mooney’s Bay – Riverside Drive South of Heron

During the summer it’s doubtful you’ll want to stray from the beach and climb this bad boy, but if you do in the winter, you’re in for a tobogganing treat. This hill gives quite a view of the area, rivaling even with the 13-story apartments across the street.

Conroy and Bruce Pit – Bruce Pit is on the east side of Cedarview Road south of Baseline Road. Conroy Pit is on the west side of Conroy Road just south of Hunt Club Road.

These Greenbelt spots are mainly used as off-leash dog parks, but they’re not just for the canines. Both used to be sand/gravel pits and are on land that’s managed by the NCC.  There’s one large hill at the north end of the Conroy pit that’s surrounded by urban forest trails, while the nearby Green’s Creek Nature Conservation area – off Bearbrook Road, between St. Joseph Blvd. and Innes Road – also has hilly, dog-free terrain.

Lincoln Fields

You don’t have to go to the high school this hill is located behind to see its sledding potential. It’s on the west side of the pedestrian bridge that spans the OC Transpo parkway and heads straight to Woodroffe High School. In fact, every winter, thousands of bus commuters spy tobogganers as they zip by to Baseline Station.  It’s off of the Elmhurst Street opening to the bike path.

Vincent Massey Park

Across the way from Carleton University by the Rideau River, the hill at Vincent Massey Park attracts many sledding newbies. There are no groomed trails and the area is mainly used by cross-country skiers since the Experimental Farm hill is a short walk away.

Walter Baker Park – Kanata

This is a very tall hill (one that therefore requires a lengthy climb) that’s located in Kanata and is popular with suburban kids.

Upper Aylmer Road – Aylmer, Québec

If you’re up for a five-minute trip across the bridge, there’s a lovely hill behind the Chateau Cartier hotel that attracts French and English thrill-seekers alike – after all, the sport of tobogganing needs no language but “Aaaahhhh!” and “Wheeeee!” Park south of the parking lot for Sam Snead’s.

There are also Quebec ski resorts like Mount Pakenham (Ontario) and Edelweiss (Québec) which offer snow tubing. They’ll provide you with a blown-up inner tube that can be raced on a secure course and even offer you the option of pulling you up the hill in your tube. Prices are about $10 per person, but the experience is sure to be a hit with the entire family.

Just remember to wear warm, brightly coloured clothes, stick to the side when climbing up, avoid open water, wait your turn, and for goodness sake, let your little brother go first! For a list of more hills in your area check out Ottawa Start’s tobogganing guide.