After being in business for more than 15 years, we happen to think we're pretty good at what we do. But don't take our word for it: here are some selected newspaper reviews and comments from satisfied customers.

Eateries in Ottawa
Culinary diversity gives this city international flair and flavor.

By Kit Snedaker,
The Robb Report

    Ottawa, Canada's capital located high on the banks of the Ottawa River, owes a lot to America. After the War of 1812, nervous Canadians built the Rideau (pronounced REED dough) Canal from Ottawa to the St. Lawrence River for safe access to that waterway. A few years later, Queen Victoria chose Ottawa as the country's capital because it seemed a good distance from the American border.
    Today it is an international city regularly invaded by Americans and representative of the spirit and flavor of the whole country. Actually, Ottawa is two cities. Its twin, French-speaking Hull lies directly across the Ottawa River from Parliament Hill. Most of all, Ottawa is an eating town inspired by all of its embassies as well as the country's ethnic mix: French, Lebanese, Polish, Ukrainian, African, Afghan, Greek, Mexican, Spanish, Sri Lankan, Asian, Turkish, and everything in between. French food predominates, of course, but light Canadian French.
    This is such a good restaurant city that even public buildings like the National Arts Center and hotels, notably the fairy-tale Chateau Laurier, which looks as though it belongs on the banks of the Loire in France, have great eateries.

THE BAGELSHOP

    But for everyday living and in-your-face representation of how international Ottawa is, there's the Bagelshop on Wellington Street. Besides the best bagels in the world (plain, sesame, cinnamon, oatmeal, muesli, light pumpernickel, and seven-grain) tumbling out of a wood-burning oven, the place offers 30 salads for take-out, from potato to tabbouleh, as well as hummus and dolmas. Preserves rate several shelves. Balsamic vinegars go on and on, as do olive oils. (The owner, Vince Piazza, is Sicilian, after all.) Coffee comes by the rich dark cup, ground, or by the bean, and there are as many different cheeses. In addition, there is homemade pesto, roast duck, barbecued chicken, pastry, and frozen foods, as well as Scottish oatcakes and Dutch strobwafel (small waffle cookies with honey filling). It is impossible to walk out of the store without finding some international delight -- a favorite indulgence or a morsel to sample.
    At the end of a visit to the city, the Bagelshop leaves in your mouth a hint of the whole splendid culinary mix that is Ottawa eating. It's a great place to start as well.

from the December, 1996 issue of The Robb Report

"The Ottawa Bagel and Deli, has always sold the best bagels in the city. They also have a wonderful array of salads. The Tortellini salad is not only delicious but quite inventive. . ."      Suzanna P., Aylmer, PC

"Just a short note to let you know about the great service that I recently received from your staff. On September 3rd I called the Bagelshop to see if I could possibly order some bagels as my personal stock had run out. To my surprise, the gentleman promptly obliged to my request and within 24hrs I had refilled my freezer. What makes this incredible is that I live in Timmins, ON which is approximately 750km away. Thanks for the great service and expect another call in a few months !!!!!"  George L, Timmins, Ontario
 
"We had the pleasure of ordering lunch from your establishment today: assorted sandwiches, a vegetable tray and a fruit tray for 20 people. The quality of your food and your service were excellent. The trays were beautifully arranged, the food was fresh and delicious, and there was more than enough for everyone. In addition, you delievered the order on time and your prices were very competitive. Thank you very much for exceeding our high expectations. We would be happy to recommend your catering services to anyone in the community. Sincerely, Karen H, Ottawa, Ontario."

Anything to add? Please e-mail us with your comments. Keep checking back here for additional reviews and testimonials.