The Byward Market in Ottawa is one of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets. It is filled with museums, specialty shops, pubs, restaurants, galleries and of course the market stalls themselves.
The Byward Market Building which is at the heart of the market was first built in 1848 but renovated and reopened several times over the years, most recently in 1997 when it was transformed from a market building into a center for food merchants, specialty boutiques and artisans. Here you can get all sorts of yummy things including, but not limited to bagels, tacos, some fantastic Indian food, fish and chips, as well as icecream. But if you are looking for a hot chocolate visit the terrace at Café 55.
Café 55 sits right at the front entrance of the Byward Market Building. It has a large seating area inside and during the summer months a covered terrace outside. From the terrace you see all the hustle and bustle of the market, stalls selling hats, maple syrup and flowers. The Café has a large display case with a good looking range of treats in particular salads and some fantastic looking Panini. We skipped all that today and went straight to the hot chocolate. It was presented in a little white mug with a bit of sweet whipped cream and a drizzle of equally sweet chocolate sauce. Although a bit sweet for my taste I can see how this would be a popular choice for any sweet tooth especially during the winter months.
Verdict: Café 55 has a prime spot right in the heart of the Byward Market. I will need to try the Panini next time. They looked absolutely fantastic. Café 55, Byward Market building, Ottawa, Canada.
