Quick Guide to Ottawa for New Students
Welcome back returning students, and bienvenue to you fresh-faced first years! Another delirious, whirlwind of a summer is followed by an equally fast-paced fall/winter semesters. Living so close to campus keeps the first year memories fresh in my mind as I listen from my window and hear the hustle and bustle of Frosh events and students eagerly moving into their dorms. It’s an exciting time of year for everyone, but it’s especially exhilarating to those who are experiencing life in Ottawa for the first time. Let this article be a helping hand to those who are looking to find their new favourite spots in a brand new city!
Food Must Try
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El Camino
El Camino is one of those places that’s on everyone’s “must try” list. It’s also the place that’ll turn you into a taco-snob for life. Why get $5 tacos from the sketchy looking food truck on the street when you can pay $6.75 for the most flavour-packed taco you can find in Ottawa? Also, El Camino’s margaritas are 10/10 and 3 ounces of pure fun. What else can you ask for?
https://ottawa.tastet.ca/en/2018/06/28/el-camino-restaurant-ottawa/
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Sansotei
When the school year begins, just like clockwork, the leaves begin to change and a chilly blanket sweeps over the city. The cure for ensuing SAD (seasonal affective disorder)? A hot bowl of Sansotei ramen. Each and every bowl here will leave you satisfied and craving for more even though you’re already in a food coma. Get the spicy tantan with thick noodles and add corn for a dollar more. Thank me later.
https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/sansotei-ramen-ottawa?select=lG2u18g7x0OxaB4AG3DQzA
Party central
1. Cornerstone
There isn’t much to say. Cornerstone has been a vibe for some time. The music and the people will always guarantee a great night. On warm nights, their outdoor patio and misty patio is the place to see and be seen.
2. Joey Rideau/Lansdowne
Um, a restaurant? Yes! Joey Lansdowne has a guest DJ every Saturday to turn the place into your favourite spot. Old school music? You got it. 2000’s RnB? It’s on queue. Joey Rideau has a guest DJ every Friday so you can go back to back nights if you really want to. On Wednesday’s all bottles of wine are half off, so it’s a really affordable night to go out.
https://joeyrestaurants.com/location/joey-lansdowne
Activities
1. Explore Gatineau Park
Gatineau Park is one of Ontario’s most breathtaking attraction, especially in the fall when the leaves take on incredibly vibrant autumnal colors. It can be a hard place to get to, especially if you don’t have a car, but luckily for all Ottawa residents, shuttle busses are now taking visitors in and out of the park. For more information, click this link: http://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/ncc-fall-rhapsody
2. The Loft Board Game Lounge
For those who are not interested in going out or taking a hike in Gatineau, The Loft is the perfect laid-back but still fun night. Each player pays a set $5 fee to play however many board games you like. They also have snacks and drinks to keep you competitive. It’s a great way to “go out” on a chilly night.