By Nicholas Savage

Much is new these days for Jeff Frost. The first-time restaurant operator has completely revamped the Urban Pear:  he has brought in an entirely new staff, both on the floor and in the kitchen, and has crafted new menus and a new vision of fresh food alongside knowledgeable, friendly service for the longtime Glebe establishment.

Jeff is not a wet-behind-the-ears newbie when it comes to the restaurant business, however. He worked his way up through the culinary world as an employee, from bus boy to manager. He is also not new to Ottawa, having lived here most of his life. Here, Jeff shares his secrets about the Ottawa food scene as well as his own personal tastes.

Favourite restaurant for brunch?
L’Avenue in Montreal by far. In Ottawa it has to be the new Urban Pear by far. Not a plug!

Where do you eat poutine in Ottawa?
There has to be two choices for this one. Two Six Ate on Preston for their chicken poutine and Golden Fries on Jeanne D’Arc. 

Favourite restaurant in the Glebe? (Besides the Urban Pear, of course!)
4th Avenue Wine Bar. 

Favourite independent coffeehouse in Ottawa?
Morala in the Glebe.

Surf or Turf?
Surf over turf. I love eating fresh seafood. I love the variety that arises out of different regions and cuisines with regards to seafood. 

Favourite hole in the wall?
I love Quinn’s and Quinn is such a great guy. We sell his ABC product. 

Favourite high-end restaurant in Ottawa?
Fraser Café.

Favourite ingredient?
Coconut curry.

Favourite cocktail?
Kimchi Caesar.

Favourite yoga studio in Ottawa?
Bikram Yoga Ottawa.

Favourite shawarma place in Ottawa?
No comparison: the Shawarma Palace!