McDonald’s Prepares to Reopen in ByWard Market After Closure

The iconic fast-food chain McDonald’s is making preparations to reopen a location in the ByWard Market area of Ottawa. The new outlet is set to be situated near the intersection of Rideau and Dalhousie streets, only a short distance from its previous site at 99 Rideau, which was closed in 2023.

The former McDonald’s location gained notoriety, largely due to a viral video featuring a raccoon and chaotic late-night scenes that led to its reputation as the “World’s Worst McDonald’s.” This location became a focal point for social media clips showcasing brawls and disturbances, most infamously when a man was filmed dragging a raccoon from beneath his coat during a scuffle.

Although there has yet to be an official announcement regarding the reopening from McDonald’s, job postings for the new site have been circulating for several weeks. This signals a strong indication of the chain’s return to the ByWard Market, a popular area for both locals and tourists.

In a recent meeting with Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, Michele Boudria, the President and CEO of McDonald’s Canada, expressed that the company is in an expansion phase, with plans for as many as five new locations in Ottawa over the next year. While specific sites were not disclosed, Boudria did not dismiss the possibility of including a ByWard Market outlet when the timing aligns with the brand’s strategy.

“We are absolutely investing in Ottawa,” Boudria stated, highlighting the chain’s commitment to the region and its growth potential. This news comes as a positive development for the local economy, indicating a renewed interest in the bustling ByWard Market, which has long been a cultural and commercial hub.

As McDonald’s prepares to make its return, many are left wondering how the new location will fare compared to its predecessor. The previous outlet’s challenges have set a high bar for expectations regarding management and customer experience.

The ByWard Market area has a vibrant history, and the reopening of McDonald’s could reintroduce a familiar face to the local dining scene. As details continue to emerge, Ottawa residents await further announcements regarding the opening date and the specific offerings that will be available at the new location.