By Michelle Ramsay-Borg
So sad to lose Argosy Books at 209 Dalhousie, closed on the last day of 2014, just shy of its 31st anniversary. We will miss owners John and Alice Hughes dearly, as well as their witty ever-changing window displays. Enjoy your retirement!
Next door, at 207 Dalhousie, local designer Lococina has opened a boutique in the space previously occupied by Kelly Ray, offering fashionable outfits and accessories for young professionals and mature women alike. We highly recommend a visit.
Scooteretti has moved from North Dal to a larger space at 85 Murray Street, the former location of Domus. Scooteretti electric bikes and scooters are designed right here in Lowertown, so if you’re looking, think local.
Another business we were sorry to see closed is Young Janes, the vintage fashion shop that Mika Lemm opened at 223 Dalhousie in 2008. Like nearby Argosy Books, it bowed under the twin pressures of increasing rent and decreasing trade.
Rounding out all the happenings on North Dal is the good news that Milk Shop (45 William) is setting up Smudge Beauty Bar at Young Janes’ former location, 223 Dalhousie. Manis/ pedis, waxing, eyelash extensions, and of course, products.
More good news: The Sassy Bead Co, located at 11 Murray Street since 1993, has had a reprieve. Instead of closing as planned in December, it moved – to 159 York Street. Also happy to hear that its shopmate, Frou Frou, is staying put.
After 50+ years at 10 ByWard Market, Phillip Van Leeuwen declared bankruptcy in December. It left behind some dismayed customers awaiting orders, but also legions who have taken pleasure in their contemporary furniture over the years.
Spoon Frozen Yogurt at 111 Clarence Street has been dark since November. This week, the windows were papered over. Looks like it has closed, but there is no sign on the door to confirm it.
Another business we’ll miss: St-Amour Fine Art Photography at 453 Sussex Drive closed quietly after New Year’s. Owner Luc St-Amour told us he is taking a health break, and may reopen in Cantley as early as this summer.
A little bit south, at 517 Sussex, David Findlay has posted a banner announcing the retirement of the owners at the end of April. This boutique is a favourite of women all over Ottawa; we hope another designer moves in.
Lowertown Canning is the brand on a new line of condiments, sauces and jams produced by Lapointe’s Seafood Grill (55 York) from locally-sourced ingredients. It’s generating a lot of buzz from foodies and media alike. See ‘Where to Buy’ on lowertowncanning.com.
Lastly, The Laff (Château Lafayette) at 45 York Street celebrated its 165th anniversary in November, the same weekend that Rainbow Bistro at 76 Murray Street celebrated its 30th anniversary. Congratulations!