My Ottawa by The NACO's Donnie Deacon gives Natasha Gauthier the 411 on the 613
/ July 13, 2004
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Destination
Anne Gilbert
Coordonnatrice section
Destination
Dear
Reader,
La Scena Musicale is pleased to
present a new section in this issue entitled "Destination." In it you'll find
the first of a series of articles on cities and regions where you'll be able to
hear the best classical music while discovering new faces and
landscapes.
For this inaugural section we've chosen Ottawa, a city
full of surprises. It offers a wealth of activities and cultural attractions,
and hosts one of the world's major chamber music festivals.
We invite you to share in this monthly getaway, and hope
it will help you in deciding where and when to experience classical
music.
In 2001, 22-year-old Donnie Deacon joined
the National Arts Centre Orchestra as principal second violin. Three years
later, the charming Glasgow native hasn't lost his soft Scottish burr, but he's
gained an insider's appreciation of Ottawa.
"I love the Byward Market area. Even
if I don't buy any fruit or vegetables, I like to just walk around and watch the
people. There are also some fun, trendy bars and restaurants in the area, like
18 and Helsinki. But if I'm meeting people before a concert, I'll go to Le Café
at the NAC."
The Fox and Feather (283 Elgin, 233-2219)
Unpretentious pub fare. Second-floor patio perfect
for people-watching.
The Manx (370
Elgin, 231-2070)
Cozy pub with a superb malt whiskey menu and
fabulous food. Great brunch. Live music and art exhibitions draw an artsy
crowd.
Le Café at the National Arts Centre (594-5127)
A must for fine pre-concert dining. Romantic
canal-side tables. Fresh Canadian cuisine.
Helsinki (15
George, 241-2868; www.helsinki.ca)
Über-trendy martini lounge and dance club in the
Market. Funky modern décor.
18 (18 York
St., Ottawa, 244-1188;
www.restaurant18.com)
Another Market hot spot. Spectacular setting in a
19th century stone building. Sleek bar for seeing and being seen. Elaborate
menu.
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