Ottawa's Hidden Gem Near TD Place: The Belmont 🍽️✨

Plans changed last minute when our first choice (the ever-popular Pelican) was fully booked—but what seemed like a setback turned into one of the best culinary surprises of the year! The Belmont, an unassuming spot at 1169 Bank St, delivered a meal so extraordinary I'm still thinking about it days later. The Showstoppers 1. Buttermilk Chicken with Fermented Cabbage 🍗 As someone who typically avoids sauerkraut, this dish rewired my brain. The chicken? Juiciest in Ottawa—each bite released an almost unfair amount of moisture. But the real star was the fermented cabbage beneath: a masterclass in balance where creamy buttermilk tangoed with bright acidity. The crispy skin-to-juicy-meat ratio should be studied by chefs citywide. 2. Hamachi Crudo 🐟 This yellowtail sashimi presentation ruined all other crudos for me. Paper-thin slices glistening with citrusy oil, dotted with... was it yuzu pearls? Every component amplified the fish's natural sweetness while adding texture surprises. Best bite: When the crispy shallot strands stuck to the fish like edible glitter. 3. Chicken Liver Mousse 🦢 Silky doesn't begin to describe this velvet bomb. Served in a jar with toasted brioche, it walked the tightrope between sweet and savory—think caramelized onions blended into foie gras, but more approachable. Zero metallic aftertaste (the true test of great offal). Pro move: Save some for the fries that come with the chicken. Why This Place Shines 🔥 Unexpected Harmony: Dishes balance bold flavors without clashing 🍷 Natural Wine List: Curated bottles that actually complement the food 💡 Chef's Playfulness: Familiar ingredients in revelatory combinations Practical Details 📍 Address: 1169 Bank St, Ottawa (10-min walk from TD Place) 💸 Price Point: $$-$$$ (Worth every penny) ⏳ Ideal For: Date nights, adventurous eaters, post-event meals Final Thoughts Most "fusion" restaurants dilute their concepts—The Belmont elevates them. That chicken alone warrants pilgrimage status, but the entire menu whispers (then shouts) creativity. Already planning my next visit to try their infamous duck breast with plum miso. Rating: 11/10 - Ottawa's food scene needed this. Drop everything and go. Then thank me later. #OttawaEats #OttawaFoodie #TheBelmont #HiddenGems #FoodieFind #CanadianCuisine #OttawaLife #MustTryOttawa #UnexpectedDelights #BankStreetEats