Ottawa’s Culinary Scene Shines with Peter Hum’s Five Spice Duck

The National Arts Centre (NAC) in Ottawa has welcomed acclaimed food critic Peter Hum as its resident chef for an eight-week stint, resulting in a culinary experience that has left a lasting impression on patrons. This collaboration, initiated by Executive Chef Kenton Leier and Sous Chef Connor McQuay, has provided diners with innovative dishes, including Hum’s standout offering of five spice duck breast.

As a long-time subscriber to the NAC Orchestra since its inception in 1969, I have embraced the combination of cultural performances and fine dining at 1 Elgin. With twelve concerts annually, alongside ballet and theatre events, dining at the NAC has become a cherished routine. In January 2024, my dining companions and I decided to indulge in Hum’s culinary creations instead of the traditional menu options. The duck breast, described by our waiter as mild in spice, surpassed all expectations and proved to be one of the finest dishes I have ever tasted, not only at 1 Elgin but also anywhere else.

The delightful meal prompted me to recommend the duck to my son and grandson, who attended a performance the following week. Their enthusiastic agreement confirmed that this dish is indeed a highlight of the NAC’s dining experience. Bravo, Peter!

In a different vein, a significant issue has arisen concerning the accessibility of Canadian news on social media platforms. Recently, I attempted to share a CBC article regarding a federal court ruling on the use of the Emergencies Act during the convoy protests. To my dismay, I found that Facebook had blocked all Canadian news links, a consequence of the ongoing dispute between the platform and the federal government over the Online News Act.

This legislation, intended to rebalance market power between large digital platforms and news organizations, has inadvertently led to the suppression of publicly funded journalism. The situation raises concerns about civic discourse, as citizens are now unable to share vital information from their public broadcaster, funded by taxpayer dollars. This troubling development is not merely a commercial issue but a matter of democratic access to information.

The inability to disseminate public-interest journalism hampers civic discussions and makes it more challenging to surface critical court decisions or policy debates. Trust in both the platforms and the transparency of the policy process is eroding.

Possible solutions could include exempting publicly funded journalism from link-blocking measures, or requiring platforms to permit user-initiated sharing of public-interest news. At a minimum, the impact on public access warrants a formal review. Upholding the principle that information funded by Canadians should be accessible to them is crucial for a healthy democracy.

On a lighter note, Linus Ullmark, the goaltender for the Ottawa Senators, has recently drawn attention for his emotional interview with TSN analyst Claire Hanna. His openness about mental health challenges prompted a reflection on the importance of player well-being over performance metrics.

After sending a critical letter to a local publication regarding Ullmark’s leave of absence, I found myself reconsidering my approach. Having worked as a trainer at various levels, including five years in an NHL locker room, I understand the human side of athletes. I regret my previous comments, realizing that players are real people grappling with personal issues.

In my apology, I acknowledged the invaluable role of Steve Staios, the Senators’ management, who has prioritised player health and wellness over wins and losses. As Ullmark seeks the treatment he needs, I hope he returns to the ice when he is ready.

These diverse topics illustrate the interconnectedness of community and culture in Ottawa. Whether through culinary excellence, the complexities of media access, or the compassionate understanding of athletes’ experiences, the city remains a vibrant hub of discussion and engagement.