The Third - Ashley
The Third
thethird.ca
1017 Wellington St W,
Ottawa, Ontario
613-728-2965
Owner: Ashley Struthers
Interview + Photography: Marianne Rothbauer, Rothbauer Studio
Photography Rothbauer Studio
Tell us a little about yourself?
I am the youngest of three girls and I grew up in Merrickville. I have always loved being involved in sports and different events. My other passions include cooking, fitness and fashion.
How did The Third begin and what is the concept for those who have yet to visit?
The concept of The Third was to create an environment where people can come together and feel welcomed; a friendly and affordable option in the neighborhood.
The restaurant and bar business, is a tough one with long hours, how many hours do you put in a week?
Sometimes running a restaurant may seem like you are working 24/7, but I knew what I was signing up for and I love every minute of it.
As a business owner is there anything that keeps you up at night?
For all those in the industry out there: Sometimes you wake up thinking you forgot to bring your customer water!!! SIDE MAYO! SIDE MAYO!
When you aren’t busy serving eats and drinks what do you do with your spare time?
1. Cooking. Indian food is the most delicious thing on the menu at home.
2. Soccer. I am very lucky to have a special group of ladies I have been playing with since I was 16.
We understand that you are big on zero-waste and being environmentally conscious how is this important to you?
It is very difficult to be zero-waste, but I feel if everyone puts in a little effort we could see changes. That’s where our portion control come into play. Its nice to see empty plates coming back.
How has Ottawa supported you in launching a business?
We are located in Hintonburg. Its such a thriving community, and to be welcomed into the neighbourhood with such open arms has been a truly humbling experience.
Are there any local haunts in Hintonburg that you frequent?
My Hintonburg crawl includes Ministry of Coffee for a green tea, Victoire for a new getup, then accessory shopping at Trove. Followed by a sandwich at Meatpress and a pit stop at Tooth and Nail for a couple of cans to go. That seems like a full day, but I still haven’t gone to The Elmdale for sweet potato fries or 10Fourteen for a cocktail!
How did you come up with the name “The Third”?
An urban sociologist, Ray Oldenburg, coined the term “the third”. The First place being your home, the Second place being your job and the Third place being a gathering spot for all.
