Heart & Crown, Ottawa

Not knowing local by-laws very well, I took a few steps off their patio (along their fence) to get a listen to a busker. A few minutes later, I stepped back onto the patio and faced a massive fellow decked out like a rent-a-cop. He, quite loudly, told me to leave immediately. “Not allowed to step off patio with a drink.” I explained I am a visitor to the country and didn't know. He proceeds to yell into his two way radio that he had a "situation" on the patio. Politely, I asked if I could get my bag but was refused. Older bouncer / security guard (?) then came out and said I could get my bag but that I must leave. I am a 40ish independent business person that travels to many different countries and am used to all kinds of variations on the word 'service' but was amazed at this gung-ho approach to rule enforcement. A simple warning, "Excuse me sir, there is no consuming of beverages off the premises," would have sufficed. I am not a trouble maker in the least. Travelers must remember, "When in Rome ...". However, with no warning, to be treated this way astounded me. Somewhere between 10 and 15 years ago, when I last visited this establishment, I thought it to be a friendly little pub. It is much bigger now and it may be heading the way of bars I have seen in many cities that became large, unfriendly drinking dives. Establishments that went from client centered quality service to quantity centered service that caters to the inebriated crowd. Too bad. To sum up, if you’re a visitor to the city give this one a wide berth. Many friendlier places to choose from in the immediate vicinity.