Blog Post
40 Things I Love About Kitchissippi at 40
Turning 40 has me reflecting on the community that has shaped so much of my life: Kitchissippi.
For the past 15 years, this ward has been home. It’s where my wife and I are raising our family, where I’ve built friendships and community connections, and where I’ve had the privilege of giving back through local volunteer work and neighbourhood initiatives.
Kitchissippi is special because of its people. It’s the neighbours who look out for one another, the small businesses that give our streets character, the parks and public spaces that bring families together, and the strong sense of community you feel across our neighbourhoods.
As I celebrate this milestone birthday, I wanted to share 40 things I love about Kitchissippi: the places, traditions, and everyday moments that make this community such an incredible place to call home.
The incredible parks and green spaces woven throughout our neighbourhoods.
Dovercourt Recreation Association for the amazing programs, camps, and swimming lessons our son looks forward to every week.
Our endless bike and running routes that make active living part of everyday life (like biking with my son to school on the Byron Linear Path).
Summer afternoons at splash pads and pools like Iona Park, Fisher Park, and Hintonburg Park.
Community outdoor skating rinks that make winter feel uniquely Canadian.
Hampton Park, one of the city’s hidden gems, especially during the guided nature walks with Friends of Hampton Park.
Saturdays at Parkdale Public Market or Westboro Farmers’ Market.
A great cup of coffee from Equator Coffee, still my favourite in the city.
Grabbing donuts from Happy Goat Coffee Co. and SuzyQ Doughnuts.
The chocolate chip cookies at Wellington Butchery that somehow disappear before we get home.
The potato bacon salad from Hintonburg Market, which should honestly have its own fan club.
Finding a great pair of sneakers at Barcon Getta.
The massive shawarma plates from Shawarma Al Mouna that always guarantee leftovers.
The chicken burger at Gburger, one of the best comfort meals around.
Watching kids, including my son, build confidence and skills at the Ottawa Gymnastics Centre.
Ice cream runs to The Merry Dairy on warm summer nights.
Catching up with friends over pints at local breweries like Beyond the Pale Brewing Company and Tooth and Nail Brewing Company.
Shopping local for unique gifts and Ottawa-themed merch at Maker House Co.
Oyster nights at The Elmdale Tavern.
Community events like Wickedly Westboro and Taste of Wellington that bring neighbours and local businesses together.
Lunch at Glen’s chip truck, because sometimes a poutine is exactly what the day calls for.
Brunch at Chesterfield's Gastro Diner, where there’s always a lineup for a reason.
A local Lululemon, which is where my unofficial Kitchissippi uniform of blazers and pants comes from.
Volunteering and supporting neighbours through local food bank drives and community initiatives.
Slowing down with a yoga class at Pure Yoga Ottawa.
Saturday bingo and a treat at Batter Up Bakery.
The endless programs and classes you can try at Hintonburg Community Centre (my wife and I had fun trying ballroom dancing).
Haircuts at Legends of the Trade barbership, especially because Devin is the only barber our son trusts.
Breakfast at Mo's Newport Restaurant.
Friday night pizza and movie nights with takeout from the House of Pizza.
Oktoberfest celebrations at our local Royal Canadian Legion hall.
The walkability of our neighbourhoods and being able to get almost anywhere on foot or by bike.
Summer days spent at Westboro Beach.
The Hintonburg 5K and seeing neighbours cheer each other on year after year.
Finding the perfect kids’ gifts at Hintonburg Kids (with gift wrapping included) and Kazka Toys.
Easy access to everything you need for outdoor adventures thanks to MEC and Bushtukah.
A bowl of pho from Pho Van Van, especially when someone in the family is feeling under the weather.
Outstanding local schools and community traditions like the Elmdale Public School book fair and festival.
The dependable service at the Island Park gas station, especially when they’re still pumping gas in the middle of an Ottawa winter.
Friendly neighbours who stop to chat, lend a hand, and genuinely care about the community.