Ottawa Foodies

We had a party on Saturday, which is also the day for my weekly visit to see Helen with my son, and enjoy some of her fantastic food! When I was there it struck me that instead of going to one of the big chains to get some finger foods for the party like I normally do, I should support the local mom and pop operation.

I picked up an assortment of various things - tabouleh, pink pickled turnips, and some other salads, mini fataya (Lebanese pizza), baklava, and some other sweets. Everything was absolutely fantastic and got rave reviews by our friends. Best of all, I found the price I paid for it all to be extremely reasonable.

Though if you want a large amount of any particular item for catered parties, it's probably best to order ahead. For excellent, out-of-the-ordinary finger food I especially recommend the mini fataya.

They should celebrate by giving ME the recipe for thier hummus and baba ganouj - best ever! I miss it so much!

Congratulations to Helen and Buddy - today they celebrate 40 years as the owners and proprietors of Melrose Grocery!

Echoing comments in the "Hintonburg" thread, every neighbourhood (and next door tavern) would benefit from a corner store like Melrose Grocery: warm service & tasty food w/ lots of veggie options at a great price.

I've started eating snacky things here the last few weeks - like single meatballs and other simple fingers foods on up to pizza, and have really been enjoying the overall eating experience! It's nice to sit down with my young son after judo class next door and treat him to something.

I get one every Saturday after my son's Judo class next door. Today I had the pleasure to have one fresh out of the deep fryer and my-oh-my it was spectacular!

Today I asked Helen the difference between Mankoushe and Fataya and she and her husband said that Mankoushe has just herbs and spices on top and Fataya is more "hearty" - implied was more like a pizza. There was no mention of folding anything. And they both pointed to a Mankoushe which basically looked the same except it had only herbs and spice. They said it was like a Zatar (just to complicate things further). When I google "Zatar" I got one explanation that said all 3 names are interchangeable.

Listed as "Fataya" on the menu.

Helen's fataya is extremely yummy - nice crisp crust with lots of toppings. There are several different kinds - all of which I enjoy. She also makes mini fataya as finger food for catered events, but you should order those ahead.