In 2014, the Westboro Village restaurant landscape changed when it welcomed Gezellig, a Beckta restaurant, to Richmond Road. It quickly became a favourite place for residents. One of those residents includes the Managing Partner Clay Cardillo.
This family-run restaurant welcomes local Westboro residents, people who are working in the area, and visitors from across Ottawa (or those who are tourists) to enjoy their Canadian-focused menu, friendly hospitality and welcoming atmosphere for brunch, lunch or dinner.
Ottawa diners are hungry to support local restaurants and Gezellig is meeting demand with more days open for lunch and dinner service as well as a weekend brunch menu that is consistently welcoming guests from Westboro Village and beyond. The brunch menu offers a kid’s menu to ensure all family members are invited.
The Connection to Westboro’s Past
The building itself has a longstanding history connected to Canadian banking in Westboro so it seems appropriate that another significant institution sits in its place now. It eventually became a TD Bank branch, which many local residents remember. “I opened my first bank account there in 1979/1980. I feel that the building itself is a good anchor for the intersection and a reminder of earlier Westboro.” Clay says, speaking to the connection he has to the area and now Gezellig.
“Westboro is where I grew up until I was about 10 years old.” Clay says. “It has changed a lot but I love that it is and always will be an incredibly active and alive community in Ottawa. I love that I’ve been able to watch families grow in our time here, and got to know so many great people and businesses”.
Praise for the Staff
Clay speaks about the people who make the restaurant a success, and that includes the diners and the staff. “…diners usually have a balance of praise for the food and the people working. I think I am most proud of the people that we work with, as they do try to leave everyone inspired to return” he says.
In addition to Clay, this team includes owner Stephen Beckta, Hospitality Manager Nina Frigotto Martins, HR and acting General Manager Sarah Cardillo, Jordan Sabourin, and Chef Brent Henderson.
Highlighting Canadian Ingredients
The menu evolves but there is always a distinct focus on Canadian ingredients and wines, an important priority for the team. “Over the next 3 years we are looking to build bigger and bigger partnerships with local and Canadian farmers, brewers and producers as well as whatever and whomever joins the Westboro community.”
Gezellig also offers a popular Table d’Hote menu for brunch and lunch in Ottawa which highlights the same quality and exceptional taste at a price-conscious rate.
Ottawa Events: Hosting Meetings and Special Occasions in the Private Space
Events are often hosted at Gezellig, with sound-proofing and privacy available to book on their second level. The restaurant welcomes Ottawa events and experiences such as baby showers, bridal showers, bachelor and bachelorette parties, club gatherings, team meetings, corporate meetings, birthday parties, wine tastings and more.
“This year we are looking to expand on some of our experiences we have offered in the past. A few more wine dinners, and tastings, a few more guest hosts and chefs.” Clays says, wanting to cultivate some ‘fun and whimsy’ for guests.
This growth plan benefits the neighbourhood, the city, and everyone’s taste buds.
Favourite Dishes at Gezellig
So what are some of Clay’s personal favourite dishes? He says it’s a tough call but they include any variation on gnudi (pasta dough made with ricotta cheese), and claims he may have indulged in one-to-many butterfinger desserts because he loved it so much. It’s not difficult to see why choosing a favourite from a menu this diverse and inviting can be difficult. “I love the influence of all our chefs on the menu; Tamika, Sam, Brent and Myha all bring different palates, experiences and likes, and I find that I am always looking forward to what is next.”
Whether it’s for your next date night, work lunch, or family brunch, you can book your reservation at Gezellig.
Where to find Gezellig
Visit Gezellig at 337 Richmond Road.
Make your reservation or browse the menu online here.
