Murray Street Kitchen/Wine/Charcuterie (K/W/C) was a beloved bistro located at 110 Murray Street in Ottawa’s Byward Market. It operated from June 2008 until December 2016, during which it carved out a niche for itself with its unique take on Canadian cuisine. The space that once housed Murray Street K/W/C is now home to Somewhere Dine Bar, an entirely different establishment that brings its own flair to the location.
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While online gaming brings a modern twist to the night, Murray Street K/W/C keeps things local with its unique “aggressively Canadian Bistro” style. This approach was a hit with both guests and critics, earning the bistro praise from well-known publications.
Murray Street K/W/C: Canadian Bistro Experience
Murray Street K/W/C proudly embraced its identity as an “aggressively Canadian Bistro,” a term coined by Michael Kaminer of the Washington Post. This approach resonated with diners and critics alike, earning the restaurant accolades from prestigious publications such as EnRoute Magazine and Vacay.ca.
The bistro’s commitment to showcasing Canadian ingredients and culinary traditions set it apart in Ottawa’s dining scene. By focusing on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and house-made specialties, Murray Street K/W/C elevated classic Canadian dishes to new heights.
Inside Murray Street K/W/C
Atmosphere and Setting
Nestled in the heart of Ottawa’s Byward Market, Murray Street K/W/C offered a cozy and welcoming ambiance. The interior design reflected a modern take on Canadian farmhouse style, creating a space that felt both familiar and sophisticated.
Dining Experience
Murray Street K/W/C attracted a diverse clientele, from local food enthusiasts to tourists seeking an authentic Canadian dining experience. The restaurant’s ability to balance casual comfort with culinary excellence made it a go-to spot for both special occasions and everyday meals.
Menu at Murray Street K/W/C
Lunch Menu
The lunch menu featured a range of hearty sandwiches and salads, perfect for midday dining. Standout items included:
- Cubano: Perth County pork shoulder, Mrs. McGarrigles mustard, cheese, and pickles on Rideau bread
- Rueben: Smoked & braised beef brisket with quick kraut and 1000 Island dressing
- “Everything but the Kitchen Sinkhole” Salad: A fresh mix featuring Spicolli’s Mizuna, roast beets, and goat milk feta
Dinner Menu
The dinner menu showcased the kitchen’s creativity with a variety of small and large plates:
- Poutine: A gourmet take on the classic, featuring hand-cut spätzle and duck confit
- Beef Heart Carpaccio: A bold dish highlighting local ingredients and expert preparation
- Jackie’s Duck: Confit of Ontario duck leg with braised lentils and seasonal accompaniments
Brunch Menu
Weekend brunch at Murray Street K/W/C offered unique twists on breakfast favorites:
- POTACO: A playful dish combining BBQ pulled pork, slaw, and cheesy scrambled eggs in a potato shell
- Corned Beef Hash: Featuring smoked corned beef and brown butter hollandaise
- Murray Street Club: A hearty plate with Rideau Bakery French toast, country-fried chicken, and all the fixings
Charcuterie and Cheese Boards
The restaurant’s in-house charcuterie program was a cornerstone of its offerings. Diners could enjoy a selection of house-made specialties like smoked duck breast, country terrine, and duck liver mousse. The cheese board featured an impressive array of Canadian artisan cheeses, showcasing the country’s diverse dairy traditions.
Special Features and Services
In-House Charcuterie Program
Murray Street K/W/C’s commitment to in-house production extended beyond its charcuterie. The kitchen team took pride in crafting everything from condiments to desserts, ensuring a truly unique dining experience.
Wine and Bar Menu
The restaurant’s wine list featured a carefully curated selection of both New and Old World wines, with an emphasis on Canadian vintages. The bar program offered creative cocktails that complemented the food menu and highlighted local spirits.
Events and Private Dining
Murray Street K/W/C was a popular venue for special events, offering customizable menus for occasions ranging from intimate dinners to larger celebrations. The restaurant’s versatility made it an ideal choice for weddings, work functions, and cocktail receptions.
New Location at Murray Street: Somewhere Dine Bar
- Location: 110 Murray Street, Ottawa, ON (Byward Market)
- Cuisine: Contemporary European
- Price Range: CAN$31 to CAN$50
- Hours of Operation: Monday to Sunday, 5 PM to 2 AM
Today, the space at 110 Murray Street is home to Somewhere Dine Bar, a contemporary European restaurant that carries on the tradition of excellent dining in the Byward Market.
Concept and Offerings
Somewhere Dine Bar operates daily from 5 PM to 2 AM, catering to both dinner crowds and late-night diners. The restaurant has quickly gained a reputation for its creative cocktails and vibrant happy hour scene.
Menu Highlights
Mains:
- Somewhere Surf & Turf Board: A showstopping platter featuring tenderloin, lobster tails, scallops, and more
- Miso Glazed Black Cod: A delicate dish showcasing the kitchen’s finesse with seafood
Small Plates:
- Wagyu Dumplings: A luxurious take on the classic appetizer
- Seared Octopus: Served with red wine poached pears and parsnip purée
Chilled Seafood:
- Salmon Tartare: A fresh and light option featuring lemon herb ricotta and crispy capers
- Chilled Seafood Tower: An impressive array of lobster, oysters, tuna crudo, and more
Desserts:
- Tiramisu: A classic Italian dessert made with mascarpone and espresso-soaked ladyfingers
- Fried Cinnamon Rolls: A indulgent treat served with caramel drizzle and fresh berries
Special Features
Somewhere Dine Bar is ideal for special occasions, relaxed evenings, and social gatherings. The restaurant’s happy hour specials and creative cocktails make it a popular spot for after-work drinks and weekend outings. The ambiance is designed to be both comfortable and chic, appealing to a broad range of diners.
While Murray Street Kitchen/Wine/Charcuterie may no longer grace Ottawa’s dining scene, its legacy lives on through the memories of those who dined there and the continued excellence of its successor, Somewhere Dine Bar. Both establishments showcase the best of what Ottawa’s culinary landscape has to offer, proving that great food and warm hospitality never go out of style.