Ottawa's beloved Kichesippi Beer Company is making a significant move into the heart of the city's downtown core. After nearly two years of successful pop-up events, the Bells Corners-based craft brewer is establishing a permanent second location at 187 Sparks Street, named The Commons, set to open its doors on December 1, 2025.
This strategic expansion represents a key milestone in the long-term vision of owner Paul Meek, who has always aimed to integrate the brewery into the essential Ottawa experience for both residents and visitors.
From Pop-Up Success to Permanent Presence
The decision to open on the historic pedestrian mall was not made overnight. Kichesippi Beer conducted extensive market analysis through a series of pop-up shops during major downtown events like Winterlude and Ribfest. This pilot project served a dual purpose: it allowed the company to understand the neighbourhood's unique flow and clientele, and to build a strong working relationship with the Downtown BIA.
During these pop-ups, Paul Meek observed two distinct customer groups. There were locals who were already familiar and fond of the Kichesippi brand, and there were tourists who had never heard of it, he noted. The initial encounters with tourists were often educational, as some would request large international beer brands, only to be introduced to Kichesippi's local offerings like Heller Highwater lager, 1855 amber, or the North Shore NEIPA.
More Than Just Beer: Filling a Neighborhood Gap
Customer feedback during the testing phase revealed unmet needs on that block of Sparks Street. People were looking for high-quality, locally roasted coffee and a convenient spot to purchase a variety of beer and wine. In response, The Commons was designed to fill these gaps.
The new establishment has secured a partnership with Ottawa's Happy Goat Coffee to serve their locally roasted coffee. Furthermore, a dedicated bottle shop is integrated into the business plan. This shop will be stocked with a curated selection of Kichesippi beer and cider, alongside Canadian and international wines, including some varieties that Meek says are not available at the LCBO.
A Drink-and-Snack Concept for Downtown
Meek is clear that The Commons is not intended to compete with the full-service restaurants on the mall. Instead, he describes the concept as a drink-and-snack destination. The offerings will cater to different times of the day, from a morning coffee and muffin to an after-work beer paired with a snack from a local supplier, such as a Jamaican patty or a pretzel.
It's all local suppliers, but nothing like a dinner with a knife and fork. That's just not what we offer, Meek stated, emphasizing the casual and accessible nature of the new venue.
Starting December 1, The Commons will operate from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends, providing a versatile space for downtown Ottawa throughout the day and evening.
