New F&B outlets open at Ottawa International Airport

Ottawa International Airport (YOW) has opened a collection of new food and beverage outlets as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the passenger experience.

The new additions include Bridgehead Coffee, La Bottega – Ottawa’s favourite Italian grocer and supplier of Italian foods – and Bento, the popular sushi outlet that began life as a small take-out shop in downtown Toronto in 1996.

According to concessionaire, SSP Canada, the restaurants represent an important milestone in the airport’s strategic YOW+ programme.

Ottawa Airport Authority’s multi-year enhancement programme began in 2019 and includes the reimagining of the airport concession programme.

SSP’s vice president of business development, Bob Stanton, commented: “We’re honoured to be part of the YOW community and bring this group of local and Canadian concepts to the capital’s airport. Our thanks to the entire YOW team, led by director of operations, Graie Messina, for their passion and commitment to bringing a ‘taste of place’ to YOW passengers.”

While Ottawa International Airport Authority’s president and CEO, Mark Laroche, enthused: “It’s been years in the making, but we are truly delighted to offer our passengers more choice, local treasures, and SSP Canada’s signature ‘taste of place’ at YOW.

“Early results confirm that travellers are embracing our iconic brands and loving the bright, beautiful spaces SSP has recently brought to life. And there is more to come!”

The majority of the concepts can be found within a newly developed food court area called Marché du Canal or Canal Market Hall and, in addition to the above mentioned outlets, includes local favourite Big Rig Kitchen and Brewery as well as quick casual pizza and burger concepts.

With the opening of the Ottawa restaurants, SSP now operates in nine Canadian airports which represents an important portion of its business across North America.