Fine dining in Ottawa isn’t hard to find, but that is really more of a problem than it might sound. Ottawa’s Byward Market is full of locations that will provide you with a satisfactory experience, however, if you’re anything like me, satisfactory just isn’t good enough. I want it all when it comes to my dining experience, really. Inexpensive, large portions, friendly staff and style that transcends beyond your typical restaurant locale. Like I said, I want it all, and why shouldn’t you? If you’re going to spend those hard earned bucks on an afternoon or evening out, make it count!
The interior of the restaurant
One delectable destination that actually gets a checkmark for everything on my list is Mezzanotte Bistro Italiano, opened in 1996 by current owner Tony Canonico. Located in the middle of the bustling and trendy Byward Market, Mezzanotte offers a mix of authentic and innovative Italian cuisine with a very welcoming, but chic atmosphere. The interior decor gives the restaurant a feeling of sophistication, but also a light, airy, relaxed vibe. Rich with natural light and bright white furniture accents, Mezzanotte sits at the crossroad where open concept meets urban chic.
A delicious dish from Mezzanotte
The staff is friendly and attentive, and are more than happy to make suggestions if you’re a first time diner. This is really no surprise after meeting the owner, Canonico. Canonico radiates a positive and contagious energy that shows you instantly how much he loves what he does. “What I love the most about this business is being around people, meeting new people, every day becomes a new adventure.” Canonico says with a smile. And it’s true! Upon further inquiry trying to find the one thing he doesn’t like about the business, Canonico responds, “I can’t say I dislike anything. I love everything about this business.” The difference between him and others is that he really means it. You can walk into Mezzanotte almost any time they’re open (trust me, I have) and there is Canonico, working as if the restaurant is in it’s first year. Happily greeting folks as they enter the restaurant and frequenting tables to check on his guests. It’s a very personal touch, but it works. With every greeting to his clients, smiles grow from ear-to-ear and their experience begins on a positive note from that one, simple gesture.
The menu offers both meat and vegetarian dishes. Below are a few of my suggestions and favourites!
Starter
- Mozzarella Arancini : Sicilian style risotto balls made with white wine and Parmesan cheese, filled with mozzarella cheese over a rose sauce topped with fresh ricotta.
Main
- Pasta alla Vincenzo (vegetarian): Spinach and Cheese Mezzaluna in a Rose sauce
- Pasta Basilico: Cheese tortellone served with pine nuts, mushrooms and grilled chicken in a basil pesto cream sauce.
Dessert
- New York Style Cheesecake: New York Cheesecake topped with Strawberries
But don’t just take my suggestions, when asking Canonico about his favourite dish he responded with, “our Chilean Seabass. It’s quite popular as well.” For a cooking tip Canonico emphasizes, “everything is always better with parm, everyone that works at Mezzanotte knows how I feel about Parmesan. It’s always better with parm!”
Mezzanotte is open Sunday: 3:00-10:00pm, Monday to Wednesday: 5:00-11:00pm, Thursday and Friday: 11:30am-11:00pm, and Saturdays, 11:30am-12:00am. Reservations are always good (especially in the evenings) as seats can fill up fast. Mezzanotte is Located at 50 Murray St, Ottawa.
Photos provided by Mezzanotte Bistro Italiano
