Much like a first date, client dinners can be intimidating. You often have a minimal idea of what you’re walking into — and who you’re walking into it with. But, much like a first date, you want to make a solid first impression.
In my opinion, both in the dating and business world, some of the pressure is taken off when the meeting location exceeds expectations. Fine dining may not be for everyone, but for that special someone — like that client you’re trying to impress — going that extra mile can make all the difference.
Elevated food, incredible beverage programs, elite service and an overall awesome atmosphere can help ease anyone into a level of comfort that is going to make all parties more relaxed.
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So, I’ve put together a list of the best restaurants in Ottawa to elevate your client dinners.
Arlo — 340 Somerset St. W.
Arlo needs no formal introduction as its reputation speaks for itself. However, it’s my job to introduce it anyways, so please strap in while I explain to you what makes Arlo so special.
Arlo is known for being a natural wine bar and boasting what is more than likely the best wine selection in the city. Not only does it bring in unique finds, but the staff is incredibly well educated on the product and will be able to guide you through every one of your questions.
In addition to the wine, Arlo’s food menu has a consistent theme of curating simple but delicious dishes using the highest-quality local ingredients. All of the dishes are well thought out and executed.
The marriage of being a wine bar and having curated dishes meant to be shared creates a unique atmosphere for client dinners. The nature of what Arlo has to offer forces people to let down their guard and enjoy their time together, which is crucial for any meeting. Although Arlo may be considered “high end” in quality it is still relaxed in atmosphere, making for the perfect bond of comfort and professionalism. The business meeting golden ratio.
Arlo also curates its experience to individuals, going as far as customizing the visuals on the menu for special occasions. When I visited on my recent anniversary, I was blown away when I saw my and my partner’s name printed at the top of our menu with a heart. If Arlo is willing to do this unprompted for a special occasion, you know the level of service is going to be as good as it gets.
Ember — 92 Clarence St.
“High end” and “late night” are often opposite ends of the spectrum. Most “elevated dining experiences” close by 11 p.m., but that doesn’t always work for clients. Meetings run late, planes are delayed, and some people just prefer to do business at night.
If any of these are the case, Ember has you covered. Not only does the fire-oriented-cookery restaurant stay open late (midnight during the week, 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 1 a.m. on Sunday), but it is located in the heart of Ottawa’s ByWard Market, making it an easy commute from many centrally located hotels.
Ember is dimly lit but lively, making for the perfect balance of privacy and comfort without feeling stuffy. The food menu is sure to impress any client, with a number of dishes to accommodate any style of diner. Heading to Ember for a late-night craft cocktail and some fire-roasted anything is an easy way to impress a client.
Mazarine — 282 Kent St.
Just as Ember helps solve the challenge of doing business at night, there is a need for those who want an elevated experience during the day. Cue Mazarine, the Mediterranean brunch spot.
Centrally located on Kent Street, Mazarine is easy to access from all the major hotels in Ottawa. Its unique take on brunch dishes draws inspiration from all over the Mediterranean, while highlighting Canadian ingredients.
This is a catch-all client brunch spot. You can keep it professional with one of the many caffeinated options (I’m partial to the Turkish coffee), or drop the formalities with the multitude of mimosas.
The food menu is even more impressive than the beverage program and allows you to gauge the type of client you’re with. There are options meant for sharing, options that are better enjoyed alone, and even great desserts if you’re trying to sweeten the deal. (I’ve been told I’m allowed one pun per article.)
All in all, Mazarine creates a comfortable but elevated experience that allows for an ideal elevated daytime client meeting.
Overall, don’t overthink where to go for client meetings. You need to be focused on building relationships and closing deals, not whether your choice of restaurant is going to scare anyone off. Utilizing this list is a way to not only help your clients feel confident in your decision-making, but showcase that Ottawa is as good a place as any for them to enjoy themselves whenever they come to town.
Jordan Pizzuti has been a local Ottawa food writer, content creator, and hospitality professional for over 10 years. Through his “best of” series, Jordan has cemented himself as an expert in Ottawa hospitality and nightlife. He continues to promote the Ottawa hospitality scene through his “Are We Having Fun Yet?” brand and his work with the Ottawa Business Journal.
