Take a #WelliWander with Kitchissippi historian, Dave Allston
A sixth-generation Kitchissippi kid with deep roots in the area, Dave Allston is a proud resident of Wellington Village. Dave works as a Heritage Asset Manager for DND, but his passion is the local community. A true history buff, Dave writes for the Kitchissippi Times and contributes frequently to the CBC and Ottawa Citizen. Known for his well-researched recounts of Kitchissippi past featured in his historical blog, Kitchissippi Museum, he is also a past president of the Wellington Village Community Association, and the Returning Officer for Ottawa Centre for Elections Ontario.
Hard as it was for him to chose, here are Dave’s top five merchant he pops into when he’s out for a #WelliWander:
The Third
Having that perfect, cozy neighbourhood pub where every fun evening out starts or ends is so important. I love The Third for its amazing food, its fantastic drink variety (always a new sour on tap!), and its vibe. It’s an unpretentious, fun place that suits any night out – whether it’s after sports, out on a date, or with family or friends. A great spot to go and instantly feel comfortable. It’s rare to find!
Hintonburg Public House
Right across the street is another fantastic place that I love visiting. The ambiance is amazing, the furniture, the décor, the ever-changing art. They have fun event nights too. I even watched the Raptors win the NBA title a couple years ago here! The drink list is extensive, always something new to try. Lots of great memories here, and I’m so glad both these spots survived Covid.
Ottawa Chiropractic and Sports Injury Clinic
Age is catching up to me and all my sports I love have started to wear me down. Fortunately last year I got referred to Chiropractor Dr. Carolyn McNeill at OCSI, who has been a huge help! Took me years to find a great fit, and it turns out it was at the top of my street all along! Carolyn is super friendly, and a top-notch chiro. I’d recommend OCSI to everyone!
Shawarma Al Mouna
They just opened in February, but I’m officially addicted. Losing Istabouli’s on Holland was devastating, but Al Mouna is just as phenomenal. The food is extremely good (I’ve been in six times already!) and they are so genuinely friendly. The seasoning for the potatoes is to die for. If you haven’t been yet, you have to check them out!
Morris Home Hardware
As a history guy, I have a deep appreciation for the old school style hardware store. It’s incredibly handy to have a hardware store right in our neighbourhood, and they have everything! The staff is always knowledgeable and friendly. I love the experience of walking through it in 2023 just as I did accompanying my Dad in the 1980s, like he accompanied his Dad in the 1960s. May we never lose Morris Hardware!
Remember to follow the WWBIA on social media and comment your favourite Hintonburg and Wellington Village location on our #WelliWander posts to be entered into a draw to win a $50 gift card to that merchant! New prize draws happening every week.
You can also nominate someone for a #WelliWander. Find out more here!