2008 August > Rideau Carleton Raceway

It was a Sunday evening and we were heading to the Rideau Carleton Raceway. Every Sunday night is Family night so I invited a friend, my daughter and her friend (both under 19). With the exception of Sunday, you must be 19 years of age or older and in possession of valid, government issued, photo identification. The Raceway even has a special entrance for Families, at the south side, that way you’re avoiding the slots portion of the raceway. We were seated in front window row with two more levels of seating behind us. Our seats provided us with a panoramic view of the race track so we could watch the races and enjoy our meal. The dining room at the Carleton Raceway actually seats 650 people so if you have your heart set on dining during a race night, make a reservation. We went for the buffet and the buffet is what we had. The selection is 100 items large and boasted an excellent variety of choices. There was everything from Smoked Salmon to Roast Beef and Butter Tarts to Red Current Cheesecake. My daughter and her friend devoured the Shrimp Crisp, while I went back for seconds of their fabulous BBQ Ribs. I have to say, that they were the best ribs I’ve had in Ottawa so far! The meat fell off the bones and the sauce was succulent, I licked every finger. My friend, on the other hand, went for the healthy seafood and salad. She enjoyed a sample of various salads, Smoked Salmon and Basa. The Smoked Salmon was flavourful without being to rich and the Basa (a member of the Catfish family) was served with a Citrus Salsa and not a hint of fishiness. The kids (teens) marvelled at their Banana Splits. My daughter described it as “each mouthful was like eating a different piece of paradise”. Their Apple Pie was as good as Grandma makes and the Pecan Pie was excellent! Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday you can enjoy the buffet for just $9.99, Thursday, Friday and Sunday, the buffet will cost you $19.99 because they have live racing. Saturday Night they have an All-You-Can-Eat Seafood and Prime-Rib for $19.99. For more information on what they have and the hours of operation, visit www.rcentertainmentcentre.ca