If you wander down Elgin Street in the ACE District you will find a lively strip of bars. Down a few steps at the corner of Frank Street is one of downtown Ottawa’s hidden cultural gems: The Manx Pub.
Established in 1993, The Manx offers delicious drinks and pub food, with lots of vegan and vegetarian options, alongside visual art, music and literary events. David O’Meara, Ottawa’s Poet Laureate, first read at The Manx in the mid-90s, and ended up taking a job behind the bar in 1999. With a poet on staff, with the knowledge to organize and host, then-owner Chris Swail suggested they start an official readings series, and Plan 99 was born.
Creating Intimate Experiences Rooted in Community
With original art on the walls, zero televisions in sight, and a shelf full of books by Plan 99 authors, The Manx has created a space that values and welcomes artists, food lovers and the arts community.
“I love the job,” says David O’Meara. “It’s busy, particularly between September and May, and several of us have been here for a long time, so it’s kind of like a family. Everyone’s engaged in different activities and the people who come in are interesting and great to talk to. Most of all, it enables me to take some time off when I need to and that has been very supportive of my writing.”
Located within walking distance of many of downtown Ottawa’s arts and culture activities, The Manx is often abuzz with cultural conversations. People drop in before or after a show, after a gallery or museum visit, to catch up with friends or colleagues, or even a good book. It’s the kind of place where you are likely to run into someone you know.
The Manx also has a long tradition of hosting intimate and packed music events, ranging from jazz brunch to solo artists and full bands, from punk to folk.
“And not to forget the long-standing performance by Remi Royale on the last Sunday of the month,” Dave explains. “Which is hard to describe but I like to use the phrase ‘extreme solo karaoke.’ You know he puts on some lighting, puts on an Elvis suit and hot dog wrestler belt, then proceeds to wander around the room and sing to people and tell jokes. It’s packed and everybody sings along.”
If you are looking for a cozy place to curl up with a good book, enjoy a delicious meal, and take in a live event, check out the events schedule on The Manx website, or drop in any day of the week.
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