A New Italian Destination Arrives in Downtown Ottawa

Ottawa, Ontario (August 12, 2026) - Gray Collection unveils Carletto, its newest Italian trattoria opening on August 31, adding to the culinary offering at the Metcalfe Hotel in the heart of downtown Ottawa. This new destination celebrates the pleasure of gathering over generous cuisine, a lively bar that stands as a destination in its own right, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Carletto offers a varied menu that highlights quality ingredients while putting a modern and refined spin on Italian culinary classics. Highlights include house-made focaccia, rigatoni alla vodka, spicy soppressata pizza and chicken puttanesca, all designed to be enjoyed in good company, in the spirit of traditional Italian trattorias. Guests looking for a little culinary theatre can also enjoy pasta prepared tableside in a wheel of Parmesan, while pizzas are baked in an impressive oven imported from Italy and finished with terracotta tiles.

Leading the culinary experience are Executive Chef Simon Brière-Audet, also Executive Chef of Cocotte Bistro at the Metcalfe Hotel, and Consulting Chef Giovanni Vella, who created the menu. Already behind the culinary concepts at Jacopo and Bevo in Montreal, Giovanni Vella brings a menu that celebrates the generosity of Italian cuisine. Together, they offer dishes that showcase seasonal ingredients, classic techniques and the joy of sharing generous plates in the spirit of Italian trattorias.

The wine list reflects this same philosophy, bringing together Italian classics and a selection of emerging producers, offering a balance between iconic appellations and contemporary discoveries.

Designed by Espace V, the interior draws inspiration from contemporary Italian design. Upon entering, guests are drawn to a large central bar, the true heart of the restaurant, where guests can gather for an aperitivo or linger into the evening over cocktails inspired by the Italian art of living, a carefully curated wine list and a lively atmosphere. Arches, natural textures and terracotta tones create a setting where contemporary elegance meets the Italian way of life.

"With Carletto, we wanted to create much more than an Italian restaurant. We envisioned a place where people come as much to share a meal as they do to enjoy the atmosphere, have a drink at the bar or discover cuisine inspired by Italian traditions and reimagined through a contemporary lens. Every detail, from the décor and wine list to our spectacular Cheese Wheel and oven imported from Italy, contributes to creating a warm and authentic experience," says Dimitri Antonopoulos, President of Gray Collection.

With the opening of Carletto, Gray Collection continues to expand its culinary offering in Ontario. Located at the Metcalfe Hotel, Carletto joins Cocotte Bistro and complements a portfolio of acclaimed establishments that includes Jacopo, Bevo, Gaspar, Benjamin and Freddi in Montreal.

The name Carletto is a nod to Charles Theophilus Metcalfe, the historical figure who gave his name to Metcalfe Street as well as the Metcalfe Hotel. In Italian, Carletto is an affectionate diminutive of Carlo, the equivalent of Charles-a subtle connection between the restaurant's Italian roots and its home in the heart of Ottawa.

Designed as a destination guests can return to several times a week, Carletto welcomes diners for everything from a business lunch or spontaneous drink to dinner with friends or weekend brunch. The restaurant features 124 indoor seats, as well as a 24-seat terrace. Reservations are now open. To make a reservation, visit www.carletto-ottawa.com.

161 ave. Laurier Ouest, Ottawa

For all media inquiries, please contact:
Frédérique Roy
Faulhaber
67 Mowat Ave Ste 103, Toronto, ON M6K 3E3
frederique@faulhaber.agency

About Gray Collection
Gray Collection is a renowned hospitality group bringing together hotels, restaurants and spas that offer a modern, warm and authentic vision of luxury. More than a collection of properties, Gray Collection is first and foremost a community of passionate people, guided by generosity, excellence and a desire to provide thoughtful service. Each hotel, restaurant and spa is carefully designed to reflect the unique character of its surroundings and offer memorable experiences that leave a lasting impression.

This release was published on openPR.