99 VIP Seafood has started serving on Rideau Street in Ottawa, taking over the spot where a McDonald’s used to be. CTV
A well-known spot on Rideau Street is starting fresh. 99 VIP Seafood opened recently, bringing a mix of traditional and modern Asian dishes to Ottawa. This new restaurant took over the building where a McDonald’s stood for nearly 40 years. The old fast-food joint was once popular but later gained a rough reputation. The new owners want to change that story.
A Lobster Tower Steals the Show
Mia Li, visiting for the first time, was impressed right away by the restaurant’s signature dish—a towering lobster platter.
“Just by what it looks right now, it’s very impressive,” Li said.
She described the dish as a blend of old and new styles. “It’s very Chinese traditional, but also modern. It looks delicious, and I’m excited to try it.”
The lobster tower is just one of many Asian-inspired dishes on the menu.
A Menu Full of Flavour
The restaurant serves a wide range of dishes including fish, oysters, pork, roasted duck, and dim sum. Owner and chef Kevin Tan has spent over 30 years perfecting these recipes.
An interpreter speaking for Tan shared his reason for choosing this location. “When I found this spot, I thought it’s the heart of Ottawa. I want to bring the best Chinese food to the city.”
He highlighted the seafood, especially lobsters and oysters, cooked in traditional Cantonese style. “Our dim sum is very special, very authentic, and all made fresh on site,” he added.
Happy Customers Keep Coming Back
Alex Xu has visited 99 VIP Seafood multiple times since it opened its doors quietly in September.
“We came here several times since the soft opening,” Xu said. “The food is really tasty and handmade. The seafood and lobster taste fresh. We love it.”
From Controversy to Cuisine
The address at 99 Rideau Street is no stranger to Ottawa residents. It housed a McDonald’s that was once a popular 24-hour stop. But over time, the fast-food location became known for police visits and unusual incidents, including one involving a baby raccoon. The McDonald’s finally closed in 2023.
Kevin Tan hopes his restaurant will bring a new, positive reputation to the site. “I’m happy to take over the location and offer people a different choice,” said Tan’s interpreter.
Positive Reviews and Open Doors
With more than 80 dishes on the menu, 99 VIP Seafood is getting good feedback. Mia Li called the food “super delicious” and “incredible.”
The restaurant serves customers every day, from 10:30 a.m. until 11 p.m., welcoming everyone to try their fresh take on Asian cuisine.
