Gezellig ★9.3

Gezellig — Beckta Hospitality at Neighbourhood Volume

Gezellig is the Dutch word for that untranslatable feeling of warmth, belonging and time spent well — and naming a restaurant after it sets a high bar. This Westboro Village dining room, built inside a converted 1950s Royal Bank building, clears it nightly: seasonal cooking, a deeply loved wine list and service in the tradition of Ottawa hospitality royalty.

The Story

The restaurant belongs to the family of Stephen Beckta — whose flagship Beckta defined the city’s fine dining — created with partner Clay Cardillo as the westward, relaxed expression of the same philosophy. The kitchen’s compass has always pointed to local and sustainable: ingredients sourced as directly from farmers and producers as possible, menus rewritten as the seasons turn.

What to Order

Come with curiosity rather than a fixed order: the seasonal card changes steadily, moving through vibrant, eclectic combinations built on regional produce. Weekend brunch is a neighbourhood institution, weekday lunch a well-kept secret, and dinner is where the wine list — a genuine Beckta signature — earns its reputation.

The Space

The mid-century bank conversion gives the room its character: ceilings that lift the eye, light that warms the stone, and an atmosphere the owners describe as soaring yet intimate. White-tablecloth quality without the starch — Westboro’s living room on its best behaviour.

Who It’s For

Couples marking quiet milestones, parents escaping for a grown-up brunch, food-lovers who prefer their fine dining friendly — and visitors who want to see why Westboro keeps winning “best neighbourhood” arguments.

Good to Know

Should I book? Yes for dinner and weekend brunch — the room’s loyal following keeps it busy.

Is there a dress code? None — the space feels polished, the crowd stays relaxed.

What’s the brunch like? Seasonal takes on the classics, weekends only — arrive hungry and unhurried.

Do they handle dietary needs? Well — the seasonal kitchen adapts gracefully with notice.

Why do people mention the building? It’s a converted 1950s bank — the soaring ceiling is the original hall’s gift to dinner.

Opening hours