Heritage Ottawa is pleased to support the proposed designation of Hartin Hotel, formerly Al's Steakhouse, in Bell's Corners. This designation signals the growing interest in Ottawa's rural and suburban heritage.

OTTAWA CITIZEN, By Matthew Pearson

The former home of Al’s Steakhouse in Bells Corners should be granted a heritage designation, Ottawa's Built Heritage Sub-Committee recommended Thursday.

The two-storey stone building at 1993 Robertson Road was built as a hotel sometime around 1870. It was named after and operated by David Hartin, a well-known farmer and businessman in 19th-century Goulbourn Township.

Earlier this year, the former Hartin Hotel building was sold and the new owner is renovating the interior to open a restaurant, according to a staff report submitted to the Built Heritage Sub-Committee.

The request to designate the building came from College Councillor Rick Chiarelli.

As a result of the various uses of the building throughout the 20th century — which include a bank and several restaurants — the interior of the building has been updated and additions have been added to the north and east of the building. These elements are not recommended for inclusion in the designation.

In outlining the case for heritage designation, the city says the building is a good example of a 19th-century hotel, is associated with the devastating fire of 1870 and the prominent local businessman Hartin, and has contextual value for its location at the strategic junction of Robertson Road and Old Richmond Road.

The building has been listed on the City of Ottawa heritage reference list since amalgamation and was also listed on the former City of Nepean’s heritage list.

The proposed designation still requires approval of the planning committee and city council.