With the opening of Moscow Tea Room, the bar scene, or the lunch scene, or perhaps the afternoon tea, or all of the above…has suddenly become much more sophisticated in the Nation's Capital. Abbis Mahmoud is well known for his contributions to nightlife in Ottawa as an owner of Izakaya restaurant, Dodge City country bar, FlyBar, and Tequila Jacks. He has found success, but this latest venture is one of passion - a passion for the kind of place that calls for the luxury of sinking into the furniture and staying a while, a niche that was missing in Ottawa.
The furnishings speak to the opulence of the place, which is housed in a stone building on Sussex Drive, a fitting location for an upscale venue. Grand chandeliers dangle from the two storey ceilings, lighting up the gilded framed artwork. Furnishings showcase hints of French country flare with an obvious nod to European elements. The blue and yellow fabric coordinates perfectly with a dramatic paneled wall, decorated with gold medallions. It is all just the right amount of ornamentation that enhances the space without being overdone.
Splashy opening events take place over the next few weeks along with a public opening on April 26th. The Saturday opening is sure to set the tone for locals and tourists to make Moscow Tea Room the go-to choice for good food, fine vodka and of course tea and scones.
