Montreal may have the historic claim on smoked meat, but Ottawa is staking its own territory with a remarkable newcomer. Hum restaurant is now serving what the Ottawa Citizen is calling the best smoked meat sandwich in the capital, and if the early buzz is any indication, it's well worth the trip.
For Ottawa food lovers who have long made the pilgrimage to Schwartz's or The Main in Montreal, the idea of world-class smoked meat in their own backyard is genuinely exciting news.
What Makes Hum's Smoked Meat Special?
According to the Ottawa Citizen's review, Hum has put serious thought into the art of smoked meat. The beef brisket is cured and smoked in-house, with a preparation that takes days and uses a spice rub that hits the right balance of peppery heat and savory depth. The meat is sliced by hand, fat still running through it, and piled generously onto fresh rye bread.
The result, according to the reviewer, is tender, juicy, and full of flavour, the kind of smoked meat sandwich that makes you stop mid-bite and close your eyes.
Where Is Hum?
Hum is an Ottawa restaurant that has been quietly building a reputation for well-executed comfort food and thoughtful ingredients. The addition of smoked meat to the menu appears to be a significant step up, a dish that requires serious commitment and expertise to do right.
For anyone planning a visit, booking ahead or arriving early is likely a smart move, given the attention the review has garnered.
Ottawa's Growing Food Scene
Ottawa's culinary scene has evolved considerably over the past decade. The city has moved well beyond its reputation as a government town with few dining options, and today boasts a diverse restaurant landscape that includes everything from acclaimed tasting menu restaurants to hole-in-the-wall gems serving food from dozens of different culinary traditions.
The smoked meat category is particularly meaningful for Ottawans, many of whom grew up making weekend trips to Montreal to satisfy their cravings. Having a legitimate option closer to home, one that rivals the Montreal originals, is the kind of development that Ottawa food fans celebrate.
Other Ottawa Smoked Meat Contenders
Ottawa has a handful of delis and restaurants that have long served smoked meat, including Dunn's Famous in the ByWard Market area and several kosher-style delis across the city. Competition in this beloved category only makes the overall scene better.
If Hum has truly raised the bar, expect other Ottawa spots to respond with their own improvements, a rising tide that lifts all sandwiches.
Source: Ottawa Citizen. Check Hum's social media or reservation system for hours and table availability.
