The Art House Café — instant Ottawa Allstar
Type: Cafe, shop, and events Location: 555 Somerset St W Website: thearthousecafe.ca
The Art House Café, opened this year, is already a hub of creative and social activity. Their goal is to support and promote the creative community in Ottawa through their shop, their events, and by giving creatives a place to meet and socialize. Whether you want a beer on their new patio, coffee and snacks inside, unique local merchandise, or to attend one of their many meetings and workshops, they have something you’ll love. That’s why this new venue is already an Ottawa Allstar.
Standing on the corner of Somerset and Bay, this gorgeous old brick building with its patio and mural will be sure to catch your eye. The interior is just as inviting, with comfortable furniture and walls full of local art. They carry local craft beers, have kombucha on tap, and serve sandwiches, empanadas, and assorted baked goods. Though I didn’t order food this trip, I’ve enjoyed their delicious kombucha and baked treats before.
Tucked in a side room of the building is the shop, full of all sorts of things created by locals. This is also a print shop, which really does make the Art House Café a central hub for creative activity.
One of the back rooms includes a sink and tables and can be rented out for workshops or meetings of all kinds.
The café has a warm and inclusive atmosphere, including gender-neutral bathrooms.
As well as being a cafe with a unique shop, the Café has a calendar bursting with events. You can find weekly events on their website, or stop in to view their posted calendar. Events include thread art nights, writing groups, life drawings, jam sessions — anything creative you can think of. Coming in September, their parking lot will be hosting part of Remixed, a festival of art and community in Chinatown.
If you’re a local creative or just love the Ottawa creative scene, the Art House Café should be on your watch list. Visit their website for a convenient calendar of events or to learn more about them.
