Re: Sparks Street market vendors told to stop selling hot food, May 31.
I disagree with Sparks Street Business Improvement Area chair Sam Elsaddi on his position to remove street vendors that sell freshly cooked, hot foods.
The food carts bring in a casual clientele looking for interesting selection and a quick bite. The restaurants are a good option for a longer stay or more formal dining options. Going in search of a food cart may even spark interest in existing restaurants for future visits.
Sparks Street will just be a thoroughfare for me without the carts — I rarely have time at lunch for a sit-down meal. I have a quick 30 minutes to get a walk in, and when I don’t bring my lunch I sometimes avail myself of the great food opportunities on the street.
If businesses continue to complain against the healthy competition, I will consider grabbing an after-work drink elsewhere.
Actually, I may take a pass on Sparks Street for a while entirely. Besides, Bank Street is looking good this summer.
Heidi Pfeifer, Ottawa
Share your views on this and other topics to the editor by writing to letters@ottawacitizen.com
