Rainbow Bistro, Ottawa

The Rainbow is Ottawa's best known and longest operating jazz and blues bar. It is located in the Byward market, a lively part of town, and is easy to find. It offers great music by talented musicians who come from all over North America. The cover charges are reasonable and the drinks don't cost an arm and a leg. At the same time, the place has needed a good renovation for a decade. The seats are old and uncomfortable. Overall it is small, with lousy seating in terms of being able to see the bands that play (lots of pillars to block the view). Only fair acoustics and loud bands make it difficult to talk to someone sitting right next to you. The upstairs pool table should have been retired fifteen years ago. The worst part is the washrooms which are so tiny and dirty you would think you were in a third world country. So, go for the music, but don't expect much else!

I liked the atmosphere, doorman, bartender, and especially the band. The place really rocked and the price of booze wasn't prohibitive 4 me & I met a really cool chick there. I will b back!