Nordik Spa Village in Chelsea, where the phrase “Elsewhere is here” takes on its full meaning. As a former employee, I had the chance to enjoy the place from a privileged perspective. What I discovered there, beyond the baths and saunas, was the power of well-being through gastronomy. A day of “me time” is a must, and I can guarantee that it’s worth it.
A Culinary Offering as Rich as It Is Relaxing
Today, I have chosen to enjoy the spa solo, to reconnect with myself. Sometimes, escape is found in the details: a well-thought-out dish, an unexpected flavour, a comforting aroma. That's what makes the restaurants at Nordik Spa Village so unique.
A Good Morning
As soon as I arrived, Mezz Café welcomed me with its warm atmosphere. The homemade maple-smoked salmon bagel, delicately topped with dill cream cheese, capers, and red onions, offers an exquisite sweet and savoury touch. Paired with a vanilla latte made with oat milk... Total bliss, with a view of the hot baths and the sound of the falls in the background, it's the perfect place to start a day off right.
An Explosion of Flavours
At The Shack, you absolutely must try the halloumi taco. You won't be disappointed! It's a veritable festival of summer colours and flavours. The warmth of the grilled cheese goes perfectly with the fresh, crunchy vegetables, all wrapped up in a light tortilla. It's summer in every bite.
How about a cocktail with that? Sure! The Biergarden's signature BlackBerry Lavender Collins is, between you and me, my favourite! Several cocktails, each as colourful as the next, are available. Not to mention the traditional hot pretzel and a fine selection of local beers to enjoy on the patio or in the lounge area.
The Perfect Balance
In the Lounge, I was won over by the famous white bean and miso dip. It was recommended by a staff member, and I'm glad I listened! Served with crunchy vegetables and toasted bread, it's the perfect accompaniment to a light aperitif. The Summer Sour cocktail, with its fruity and tangy notes was perfect. Reading the dessert menu, I couldn't resist the lemon meringue cream. A deconstructed lemon tart, creative and so refreshing. Pure delight!
A Comforting Meal
The Resto's wide, silky parpadelle pasta is topped with a creamy, rich, and flavourful sauce. A generous piece of braised beef cheek, cooked to perfection, melts in your mouth. Mushrooms and grated Parmesan cheese round it out beautifully. Paired with a glass of white wine, this dish embodies the essence of comforting, refined cuisine.
Chef David Arseneau's Signature
During my visit to Nordik Spa Village, I had the chance to discover the cuisine of executive chef David Arseneau, a native of the Ottawa region who leads the culinary team with passion and precision. His signature style? Seasonal cuisine inspired by local products, combining freshness, beauty, and simplicity. He has mastered the balance between flavours and the Zen atmosphere of the place. When we say “eating with your eyes,” that's what we mean here! And let me tell you, the plates would look great as a postcard on your social media.
The Perfect Harmony Between Well-Being and Cuisine
In the end, I loved my culinary experience, worthy of a 5-star restaurant. The staff are passionate and very attentive. Every detail is considered to create a combination that is more than soothing. The thermal cycle soothes the body and mind and the Kalla experience allowed me to forget everything for a few minutes and bask in the magical moment.
Check out the Village Rituals too. My favourite is definitely the Discovery Arboreal Aufguss. Birch branches make water rain on us softly in a dry sauna filled with the scent of carefully selected essential oils. It's just perfect.
My Other Favourite Patios Nearby
I must admit that I am a foodie at heart. Although the restaurants at Nordik Spa Village are among my favourites, here are some other must-try local places to try.
• Chelsea Pub: In the heart of Old Chelsea, this brewpub offers craft beers and comfort food. Try the Terrasse du Square too, lively and vibrant all summer long.
• Roberto Pizza Romana offers authentic Italian cuisine! Roman pizzas just like in Rome. Roberto and Geneviève's love story is worthy of a romantic movie.
• Les Fougères offers refined French cuisine in a rustic setting with an intimate patio. You'll love the open kitchen, which allows you to see the magic happening behind the scenes.
• Caméline: A true gastronomic gem offering fresh, refined, and creative pasta dishes served in a century-old house in the heart of Old Hull. You absolutely must try the homemade focaccia.
• La Maison du Village: Winner of the jury prize at the first edition of the Outaouais en cuisine competition, sponsored by Tourisme Outaouais. Their seasonal menu is as charming as the decor.
• Café Le Hibou: A local favourite, this café offers homemade goods and delicious brunches. Their tree-shaded patio is perfect for a morning of writing, reading, or conversation with friends.
• Soif Bar à Vin: Véronique Rivest, world-renowned sommelier, guides you through a selection of unique wines and award-winning cuisine. A new wine list awaits you every week.
But for me, nothing beats the intimacy of Nordik Spa Village. This place, where I worked, grew up, and dreamed, remains the setting for a perfect summer. The atmosphere is calm, but the cuisine leaves no one indifferent. Everything is thought out: the plates are carefully prepared, the local flavours are well presented, and the service is on par with the location. For me, it was more than just a job at the time, it was an immersion in a softer way of life.
Summer at Nordik Spa Village is a different kind of relaxation, an escape that celebrates fine dining. Don't miss out!
Written by Karol-Ann Scott, @karolannscott
