Review: Lunch at the Rideau
It’s always fascinating for me to explore the stories behind places that hold a special significance in the hearts of both the owners and the patrons.
The dedication of the Kardish family to maintain century-old traditions while running the Rideau Bakery, even when there might not have been significant profits, was what drew me in. That kind of sincerity is rarely found in the world we live in today. The fact that the lunch counter served as a gathering place for generations of families, where they could enjoy homemade soup and sandwiches while sharing stress-free moments, is a testament to the power of food and community in our lives. The personal accounts of the regular customers added a deeply emotional layer to the film, making me feel like I want to be a part of that camaraderie and conversation.
âLunch at the Rideauâ chronicles the journey of this century-old lunch counter, from its prime to its closure, adding a historical dimension to the narrative. It’s a reminder of how places like these are not just about food but also about the memories and connections they create over the years. I recommend watching it if youâre a history buff or simply a connoisseur that likes things sui generis.
More info & links:
- Directors: Jane Gurr, Kent Newson
- Kublacom Pictures Website
- Kublacom Pictures on Facebook
- Lunch at the Rideau screened at the OCan Film Festival in Ottawa in 2023.
Siddhi Shukal
Film Reviewer
Siddhi Shukal is a 25 years old lawyer turned writer, who prefers taking much more liberty writing fiction than what is sanctioned by the law. With a long lineage of writers in the family it wasnât a surprise to anybody when she published her first book at the age of 17. What did come as a surprise was her decision to choose law over literature. Eight years later, however, Siddhi decided to return to her one and only respite: writing. Along with a degree in law and a lot of freelancing experience under various fields Siddhi is now pursuing a diploma in Scriptwriting at Algonquin College.
