Ottawa Easy Wheels

Best Professional Service Business

Ottawa Easy Wheels has earned a reputation for going above and beyond for their customers. Beyond servicing automobiles, this dynamic local duo also shares information to help educate vehicle owners about what they need to know about maintaining their car and preventing unnecessary issues. Their commitment and compassion make them a standout gem in our community.

Marsha’s YIG

Best Retail Business – Food

Marsha and her team have brought spirit into this local community hub, with the entire team under Marsha’s leadership becoming a staple at local events. The team has taken every opportunity to give back and support vulnerable community members, making them a sparkling recipient for this year.

Community Compassion Centre
Food Bank

Best Community Service Organization

The Community Compassion Centre’s dedication to vulnerable community members facing difficulty with getting food on the table truly stands out. Beyond distributing nutritious food through their partnership with the Food Bank, they also collaborate with local businesses to provide folks with other essentials like Christmas baskets and clothing, making sure everyone has what they need at home.

Bookkeeping Bureau

Best Personal Service Business

Bookkeeping Bureau stands out for many thanks to the team’s professionalism, excellent advice and friendly approach to customer service. Their wide range of expertise and humble approach to service has helped this team shine as a local gem in 2026.

Louis’ Pizza Express

Best Restaurant

Louis’ Pizza Express is known for their incredible passion for great food and creating an inviting experience for anyone who walks through their doors. This family-operated restaurant is also known for their focus on giving back to the community, another great reason why they shine as a local gem.

The Book Market Orléans

Best Retail Business – Merchandise

The Book Market Orléans has offered a cozy, welcoming space for book lovers to discover the perfect read in Orléans for four decades, and has been the go-to local bookshop for many. Congratulations to their team for standing out as a favourite in the community and on their new location on St. Joseph Boulevard!

The Almighty Cheese

Best New Business

The Almighty Cheese is already shining bright in their new location, bringing flavourful and cheesy dishes that hit the spot, especially for anyone looking to refuel after a workout, swim or skate! Their participation in local events and markets brings them to all parts of the community, making them a fast favourite for east enders.

Rotary Club of Orléans

Best Community Social Organization

The Rotary Club of Orléans exemplifies “service above self”, with dozens of volunteers always at the ready to give back. Their efforts to identify unmet needs in the community and step up with creative solutions demonstrate why they have shone as a favourite this year.

Zunzun Reading Community

Best Community Arts or Cultural Organization

Zunzun brings reading and community together like no other. From the little free library to local get-togethers, they truly make our the east end sparkle in their own neighbourhood and well beyond. Their creativity, generosity, and community spirit leave a lasting and meaningful impact and it is no surprise that they are a 2026 Gem.