OTTO serves more than food
Popular restaurant hosts spring market and other events
Nestled in a charming brick building with a transparent garage door-style entrance, OTTO Food & Drink (OTTO) opened in 2016 to massive praise and has become a neighbourhood staple. Described on YELP as having "…no pomp and ceremony…just good food, craft beer, a carefully considered wine list, and friendly staff," OTTO offers a home-away-from-home vibe for patrons of all ages.
Nat Shepard has been working with OTTO for seven years. "This is the second market we've done at OTTO, and I hope to do more! We will have snacks and treats available for shoppers (I'm working on a springtime punch), so folks can do a little shopping and stop for refreshments," says Shepard.
Vendors for this year's market include Bridgette's Garden, local beauty and personal care; Magpie Maven, which sells handmade jewelry; Heather Shepherd Ceramics, Prairie Bears Cider, Evil Corp Brewing; Dapper Crafts, which offers polymer and resin jewelry; Ohtisii: Indigenous design, High Ku Co holistic household items, Ever Charms permanent jewelry, Four Pines that create beautiful dream catchers and beaded earrings, and Mae Creating.
Shepard is excited about the diverse group of products that will be showcase over the course of the two-day market. “There will be seven to eight vendors on site at one given time selling their products and talking with people. They’re all wonderful, local folk selling jewelry, art, pottery, cider and beer, and many other things.”
While OTTO cherishes its regular visitors, the team is eager to welcome new faces to the neighbourhood through a series of exciting and diverse events. “Owner Ed Donszelmann envisioned OTTO as more than just a business; it's a meeting place. And that's exactly what it has become. I love being a part of the OTTO team and working to grow the community. Most of our regulars live within walking distance!" says Shepard.
Shepard is currently planning other unique events, including a 2SLGBTQIA Meet Up once a month, which they will host. The event will include food and drink specials and goodies for guests to bring home, such as pins and buttons. The event is safe, and all are welcome. There is also a general trivia on the first Tuesday of every month, which is open to the public. Shepard suggests people make reservations for the trivia events as they fill up quickly.
"I also want people to know our space is available to book! We love hosting big groups. Anyone interested in renting out our space or hosting a large party should contact edwin@ottofoodanddrink.com."
OTTO SPRING MARKET
April 27 and 28
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
11405 95 St
Alberta-based vendors
Drinks and snacks
 | A guest post by
|
Always good to read about the many positives in our neighborhood.