L’Ouvrier set to open on Dundas West in September; hard workers invited
Dundas West’s hipster restaurant row is about to get yet another new addition to its ranks. Behind L’Ouvrier are Justine Fowler, who works in fashion, and Angus Bennett of Ottawa pub The Manx and Angus Bennett Catering. The name comes from a line in Orwell’s Down and Out in Paris and London (“The cook does not look upon himself as a servant, but as a skilled workman; he is generally called ‘UN OUVRIER’ which a waiter never is”), and it’s reflective of Bennett’s philosophy about food. “Angus believes that cooking is less about art and more about hard work and dedication” says Fowler. The couple hopes their new restaurant will embody that philosophy in a welcoming and unpretentious environment.
Located west of Bathurst and Dundas, L’Ouvrier was once the site of an old, illegal after-hours club. With the help of artist and friend Courtney Wotherspoon, Fowler and Bennett came up with a design concept for the space that would fit in with the new breed of restaurants in the neighbourhood, like Campagnolo and the Black Hoof. The focus on the hard-working cook is emphasized by the large collection of archival photos of World War I–era cooks that will adorn the back wall of the restaurant. Bennett’s menu isn’t confined to a particular concept or ethnicity; it’s more an expression of the passions and whims of the owners. Next to French dishes such as duck confit or steak tartare, expect to find a traditional Asian hot and sour soup, or comfort food such as grilled cheese. Fowler hopes the restaurant will launch in early September.
L’Ouvrier, 791 Dundas St. W, 416-901-9581, louvrier.ca.
, and it’s reflective of Bennett’s philosophy about food. “Angus believes that cooking is less about art and more about hard work and dedication” says Fowler. The couple hopes their new restaurant will embody that philosophy in a welcoming and unpretentious environment.
Located west of Bathurst and Dundas, L’Ouvrier was once the site of an old, illegal after-hours club. With the help of artist and friend Courtney Wotherspoon, Fowler and Bennett came up with a design concept for the space that would fit in with the new breed of restaurants in the neighbourhood, like Campagnolo and the Black Hoof. The focus on the hard-working cook is emphasized by the large collection of archival photos of World War I–era cooks that will adorn the back wall of the restaurant. Bennett’s menu isn’t confined to a particular concept or ethnicity; it’s more an expression of the passions and whims of the owners. Next to French dishes such as duck confit or steak tartare, expect to find a traditional Asian hot and sour soup, or comfort food such as grilled cheese. Fowler hopes the restaurant will launch in early September.
L’Ouvrier, 791 Dundas St. W, 416-901-9581, louvrier.ca.){kind=link}
I live in the neighbourhood and have been watching the progression of this place with a close eye. It looks like a really beautiful space and the menu is really eclectic and delicious sounding. Excited to have something a bit more sophisticated in the area.
Had dinner there last night. The room is very beautiful and the staff are very friendly. It was a great experience. My only critique is that the portions were quite small and sort of just mediocre.
But I will give them another try because they were so darn nice and they may be experiencing some growing pains.
Wonderful menu, wonderful execution and many pleasant surprises. Service was impeccable and friendly! We tried the Cauliflower puree, several salads – favorite being the delightful combination of several flavour surprises… fennel, cucumber, feta and pomegranate to name a few. The burgers were fabulous and the fries sublime, the char was a delight and the ricotta mushroom ravioli with brown butter, bacon and parsnip chips was inspired! The deserts did not disappoint as menus often do. The flan, the brownie and the Lemon cake were each and every – wonderful! The decor is amusing and thoughtful. The only complaint is that the big round wooden table we had splintered and snagged our sweaters, but this can be fixed – the food is divine!!! GO!!