Ottawa’s ByWard Market is about to welcome a first-of-its-kind addition to its vibrant landscape. A 24-hour health food convenience store will soon open its doors, bringing wholesome options to the historic district at any hour of the day or night.
The new store, called Market Greens, will occupy the former location of a small coffee shop at 55 ByWard Market Square. Owner Rachel Goldstein, a long-time Ottawa resident, says the concept emerged from her own late-night struggles to find healthy options.
“I’ve lived downtown for fifteen years, and after evening shifts, I could never find anything but fast food,” Goldstein told me during a tour of the nearly-completed space. “Ottawa deserves better than just pizza and poutine at midnight.”
The 1,200-square-foot store will feature organic produce, prepared meals, smoothies, and a selection of locally-sourced products. What makes Market Greens unique is its round-the-clock accessibility in a neighborhood known more for its nightlife than nutritious offerings.
City Councillor Mathieu Fleury believes the store addresses a crucial gap in the downtown core. “This brings healthy food access to an area that desperately needs it. ByWard Market should reflect the diversity of our city’s needs, including those seeking healthier choices at all hours.”
Market Greens has partnered with over a dozen local vendors, including Terramor Farms in Wakefield and Ottawa’s popular Bread By Us bakery. At least 40% of products will come from within a 100-kilometer radius, according to Goldstein.
The store arrives as Ottawa Public Health data indicates rising rates of food insecurity in central neighborhoods. A recent report found that 13.8% of downtown residents experience difficulties accessing nutritious food, compared to the city-wide average of 7.6%.
“Food access isn’t just about proximity to stores—it’s about affordable, healthy options available when people need them,” explains Dr. Vera Etches, Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health. “Workers with non-traditional hours particularly struggle with this challenge.”
Market Greens plans to address affordability concerns through a community-supported model. A monthly membership program will offer discounts to regular customers, while a “pay-it-forward” wall will allow patrons to pre-purchase items for those in need.
Security concerns for the 24-hour operation have been addressed through consultations with the Ottawa Police Service and ByWard Market BIA. Enhanced lighting, security cameras, and at least two staff members on overnight shifts are among the planned safety measures.
The timing coincides with the city’s revitalization efforts for the historic district. The ByWard Market Public Realm Plan, approved last year, aims to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment while preserving the area’s unique character.
Local business owners have expressed mixed reactions. Kevin Matheson, who operates a nearby restaurant, welcomes the addition. “Anything that brings more foot traffic outside typical hours is positive for all of us,” he says.
Others worry about potential disruption. “We already struggle with noise complaints from residents,” notes bar owner Samantha Lee. “Another 24-hour operation might increase tensions.”
For night shift workers like nurse Jamal Hassan, the store represents a welcome change. “After a 12-hour overnight at The Ottawa Hospital, I can’t tell you how much I’ve wished for something like this,” Hassan says. “Grabbing a salad instead of drive-thru at 7 a.m. will be life-changing.”
Market Greens plans a soft opening next month with a grand opening celebration scheduled for early September. The store has already hired fifteen employees and plans to expand to twenty within six months if demand meets projections.
As Ottawa continues evolving beyond its government town image, Market Greens represents another step toward a more diverse urban landscape. Whether the 24-hour health concept will thrive remains to be seen, but for now, it offers a fresh alternative to the city’s late-night scene.
For a city still establishing its metropolitan identity, the arrival of Market Greens suggests Ottawa may be ready to embrace urban conveniences long available in larger centers. Sometimes, progress comes in unexpected forms—even in a bowl of organic quinoa at 3 a.m.
