Love food? If yes, get yourself to Hamilton asap. Once known for its manufacturing industry, the city has transformed into a food-lovers paradise. The emerging culinary scene is energized, inspired and collaborative: a place where food entrepreneurs unite to fulfill their dreams. Step inside any of their establishments and you’ll feel their energy pulse through you. That’s because food isn’t just a business to them: it’s a passion. And you can truly taste it in every morsel and every gulp. Here are some drool-worthy spots to add to your must-eat list in the hammer…
Delirious Burger – Located in Westdale, this burger joint serves up some seriously delicious patties. No fillers here, just pure goodness sourced from local farms. The menu is pared down and focuses on what they do best: well-seasoned, juicy and perfectly-cooked burgers. Tip: order the Cheeseburger and load it with fried jalapenos OR go for the Stuffed Portobello Burger. Oh, and do NOT skip out on the fresh cut fries: they have just the right amount of starch, sugar and salt to make your taste buds jump for joy.
NàRoma Pizza Bar – Combining the best of both worlds – Naples and Rome – this Italian pizza bar is the place to head if you’re looking for authentic pizza in Hamilton. These guys are all about quality and use the same techniques and ingredients that pizza masters have been using for generations. The best part? A crust that had me daydreaming of Italy at first bite. Hand-kneaded and allowed to rise for at least 72 hours, the dough is made from a secret blend of doppio zero flour, minimal yeast (you won’t feel bloated after eating here) and extra virgin olive oil. Once it’s out of the oven, the pizza is served Al Taglio (by the rectangular slice) so you can order a few different flavours to try in one sitting. Tip: get the Funghi (mozzarella, oyster + portobello + button mushrooms, truffle oil) and Margherita (tomato sauce, mozzarella, bocconcini, basil, cherry tomatoes). Oh, and I hear they serve up an amazing Nutella pizza!
Relay Coffee Roasters – If there’s one thing that’s certain, this quaint coffee bar on Concession St. is bursting with love. Greeted by the husband and wife duo who run the business, we truly felt like we stepped inside the Hofing household. Not only are they the nicest people you’ll ever meet, but they’re fully committed to serving up hand-crafted coffee made from quality beans that are fair trade certified, certified organic and sustainably grown. These guys are coffee-obsessed and pay attention to all the little details that make a perfect brew (temperature, aroma, colour, tones etc.) Tip: try the pour-over coffee, grab a pound or two of their freshly roasted beans to enjoy later AND if you’re lucky enough to spot the Cake & Loaf Bakery bars (they sell out fast) make sure to grab a few – they are divine.
Southern Smoke Barbecue House – Ask any local and they’ll point you to Southern Smoke Truck for the best BBQ in town. I’m talking locally-sourced meat that’s smoked on all-natural hardwood and smothered with 40 Creek BBQ sauce; the kind of sandwich that I’d gladly line up for any day. But soon you’ll be able to take a seat inside their new store on Ottawa St. as you devour the deliciously messy grub! We visited them a couple of times during its construction and can tell you that this casual BBQ joint is going to be epic. Tip: order the 40 Creek Beef Brisket Burger (topped with bacon, caramelized onions and 40 Creek BBQ sauce) and their Sweet & Savory Chuck Wagon Beans. I hear their Pineapple Spears are killer too. There’s a lot of soul poured into Mike’s southern style menu so I’m convinced you won’t go wrong with any pick. Oh, and don’t wear white.
The Burnt Tongue – Or otherwise known as soup heaven. Pulling on all the nostalgia strings, this resto is the place to go if you’re looking for comfort food. Yes, they serve up classics like burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches, but head here for the soup. These guys understand how to create complex flavour profiles and are always dishing out new concoctions; they’ve served over 700 different kinds of soup! And pretty much anyone can eat here: vegetarians, vegans, celiacs, people with lactose intolerance – you name it. This is the kind of food that warms you up from the inside – literally and figuratively. Tip: they’re always switching up the soups so take a look at their Instagram or website to see what’s on the menu. If you ever spot the Moroccan Lamb Soup on there, make sure to order it. Be prepared for line ups – they fill up fast!
The Ship – Known for their craft beer and gourmet burgers, this is a great place to hang out with a group of friends. It’s cozy, the service is super friendly and the prices are reasonable (especially considering the ginormous portions). What I loved most? The eclectic decor: there is ship memorabilia everywhere! Tip: order The Yankee (8oz beef burger, american cheese, bread and butter pickles, crispy fried onions, bbq sauce) and I hear their crab poutine is to die for.
Mezcal Tacos and Tequila – Tacos and tequila. Need I say more? This new resto on James St. is going to be the talk of the town when its doors open to the public in a couple of weeks. The space is edgy, the staff are knowledgeable and the food is mouthwatering. I’m talking homemade chips, creamy guacamole and a charred tomatillo salsa that is one of the freshest I’ve ever tasted (the secret ingredients? mint and agave nectar). Expect bold flavours and a good time at this new joint. Tip: order the beer battered cod, sip on an El Burro Mezcal, try their homemade pickled goods and don’t leave without tasting the salsa.
Radius – Everything about this place screams Hamilton: from the food on its menu (which is locally sourced – some of it even comes from the owner’s family farm in Carlisle!) to the building it’s housed in (which was once occupied by Isaac Buchanan, one of the city’s great innovators). The space is grand and oozing with character – think Montreal meets NYC. What I loved most? The diverse crowd: we spotted romantic dates, birthday parties and even a couple of long-time supporters who hopped over from a retirement home! Tip: grab a seat at the bar, order a Buchanan and raise your glass to his portrait as you take it all in. Oh, and I hear they have a multi-level patio in the summer so mark this place down for those long, summer nights ahead.
Aberdeen Tavern – When I told my friends that I was heading to Hamilton to check out the food scene, every single one of them recommended that I dine at Aberdeen Tavern. Although this charming restaurant has only been around for a year, it truly feels like an institution. The kitchen is headed up by Chef Matt Beasley (formerly at One in Yorkville) who recently moved to Hamilton to cook up a storm in his hometown. Needless to say, the food here is exceptional: well-balanced, inspired and beautifully plated. And the ambience? Intimate with a dash of old world charm; it’s located inside a former bank and lined with leather banquettes and wood accents. Tip: Head here for brunch, date nights or an evening out with friends (especially when their new supper club opens on the second floor). Oh, and make reservations because this place is loved by all.
Black Sheep Snack Bar – There’s a new kid on Ottawa St. and it will make your stomach very, very happy. Serving up artisanal cocktails and a solid selection of beer and wine from around the globe, this is the kind of bar I could go to every week. It’s warm, friendly and – most importantly – the chef-driven bar snacks are crammed with flavour. One bite into their Perfect Nacho Chips and I was sold. Unique menu items include: Crispy Chicken Skin Garam Masala, Thai Deboned Stuffed Wings and Truffle Popcorn. Trust me, you’ll leave this place with a smile on your face. Tip: sit at the bar and ask Jeremy to pour you a Beau’s (their best seller) and pair it with the Perfect Nacho Chips.
Hamilton has always been a city filled with hardworking people and the emerging culinary scene is no exception; the food entrepreneurs are blazing a trail and pouring every ounce of passion into their businesses. Their energy is infectious, their collaborative approach is commendable and their food truly comes from the heart. That’s great news for food-lovers like moi! I hope you guys get a chance to check out some of these incredible establishments. What are your favourite eats in the hammer?
UPDATE: I keep receiving so many great recommendations from all of you so I’ve been heading back regularly to feast at the new restos. Check out this link and this link for more current coverage on the food scene!
The food tour featured above was coordinated by Hamilton’s Economic Development Office as part of a press trip to Hamilton. Our meals were complimentary. As always, all reviews and opinions are entirely my own.
55 Comments
Sara
March 4, 2015 at 8:01 pmHey, great article but, how about a little link to the Cake and Loaf URL? … Show them some love…
Solmaz
March 5, 2015 at 3:10 pmThanks! Done and done 🙂 So much love for those bars!
Kyle
March 4, 2015 at 10:32 pmBBQ in the Hammer begins and ends with Memphis Fire BBQ Company. Otherwise great list!
Solmaz
March 5, 2015 at 3:07 pmoooh I’ll have to check out Memphis Fire BBQ next time I’m there!
Heather Bush
March 5, 2015 at 6:22 pmI agree, although actually in neighbouring Grimsby. MFB is authentic southern BBQ!
mr fuzzy
March 6, 2015 at 7:00 amMemphis fire is actually in winona which is part of hamilton, very close to grimsby though
Solmaz
July 24, 2015 at 3:55 pmUpdate: I just checked them out — they’re great! Thanks for the reco Kyle
Michele Sponagle
March 5, 2015 at 12:05 pmWell done post! For more Hamilton bites, see my blog for Tourism Hamilton on truly classic foods and restos in the Hammer. http://www.tourismhamilton.com/classic-bites
Solmaz
March 5, 2015 at 3:08 pmAmazing — more places to check out in the hammer! Thanks for sharing this.
Solmaz
March 5, 2015 at 3:17 pmI wrote it – I’m the only one who writes on this blog 🙂 A group of us ate at all of these restos and our stomachs were happy (which is why I highlighted them). The locals we chatted with also had a lot of love for these food entrepreneurs. If they aren’t your cup of tea, which ones do you recommend? Help me with my research 🙂
jennifer wilson
May 12, 2015 at 6:23 pmhave you been here? I drive from Toronto to dine here ..
Solmaz
May 15, 2015 at 5:51 pmTo Hamilton? Yes! I visit often now — or did you send a specific link? (can’t see it if you did)
Rob
March 5, 2015 at 4:19 pmYou’re missing Randy’s Burger’s. Undoubtedly the best in Hamilton. http://www.randysgrassfedhamburgers.ca/
Solmaz
March 5, 2015 at 5:40 pmThanks for the reco! I’ll def check them out
Heather Bush
March 5, 2015 at 6:23 pmRandy’s burgers are so delicious – they are serious about quality and taste!
Solmaz
March 5, 2015 at 9:27 pmGreat! Will add them to the list too 🙂
Gumper
March 7, 2015 at 12:37 pmGotta go with Randy’s also, best burg and onion rings around. They don’t make em until you walk through the door.
Solmaz
March 8, 2015 at 10:16 amOoh haven’t had good onion rings for a while. Thanks!
Russ
March 5, 2015 at 4:35 pmHave to try Tavern On George when in Hess next time…pretty awesome.
Solmaz
March 5, 2015 at 5:42 pmWill do! Thanks Russ. Spent quite a lot of time in Hess over the years, but don’t think I’ve been there (that I remember lol). I’ll check them out.
Buddy
March 5, 2015 at 4:35 pmThanks for the list. Trying out Black Sheep tonight.
BTW
I think you have a pretty good handle on the Hammer.
Solmaz
March 5, 2015 at 5:44 pmI was guided by locals so I’m hoping they fed me right — or else!! 🙂 J/k – Everyone has different palates you know? That’s why it’s not a “best” list — just a few places to try out. Let me know how your experience is at Black Sheep!
Krupa
March 5, 2015 at 5:21 pmmacceronis is one to try out on main street west for Italian!
Solmaz
March 5, 2015 at 5:45 pmDone and done — I LOVE me some good Italian 🙂 Thanks so much!
Heather Bush
March 5, 2015 at 6:29 pma Hamilton Institution of pizza and italian has always been Bronzies – sure it is a local “bar” but the food and friendly service don’t get any better. Been eating there since my time living on St. Joseph’s Drive over 20 years ago. The Durand neigbourhood is a dependable place to get good honest valued great tasting food – and Just down the road is Steve’s Open kitchen. I used to eat lunch there over 30 years ago. It’s bigger now and Steve’s son runs it, but still wonderful!
Solmaz
March 5, 2015 at 9:26 pmThanks so much for your recos, Heather! Bronzies sounds fun! We really enjoyed exploring the city and can’t wait to see + taste more!
Kayla
March 5, 2015 at 8:25 pmJet Cafe! The best breakfast!! Oh and Staxx! Gotta try them both!
Solmaz
March 5, 2015 at 9:24 pmooh a breakfast place! Thanks so much.
Sarah Solecky
March 5, 2015 at 9:58 pmGenuine Bakery!
Easily the best ITALIAN food in town. And you can pick up a fresh loaf of bread on your way out – baked fresh daily onsite:)
It is located at 1002 Barton Street East.
Let me know when you are thinking of coming back into town – I can make sure you have access to a full feast, all hand made, with homemade Italian recipes.
We are a third generation owned wholesale bread bakery with a front retail store. We have been around for more than 50 years! And people still go crazy for our homemade pasta sauce.
It would be a privilege to serve you:) Hope to see you soon!
Sarah
https://www.facebook.com/genuinebakery905
Solmaz
March 5, 2015 at 10:58 pmThanks so much, Sarah! More than 50 years– sounds like you guys are doing something right! We shall add a visit to the list 🙂
tyna
March 6, 2015 at 12:05 amSo many good places not enough meals in a day. I haven’t tried all these places yet, but can’t wait to.
One more place you should check out is Toma La Its a Portuguese style BBQ at upper James And Rymal, I would recommend the chicken they slow cook over an open fire pit.
Solmaz
March 6, 2015 at 9:44 amYou had me at Portuguese BBQ. Sounds delish!!
Brittany
March 6, 2015 at 12:54 amYou should try out zum linzer and Augusta house !
Solmaz
March 6, 2015 at 9:45 amAdding it to the ginormous list — so many great recos!
David O'Garr
March 6, 2015 at 2:56 amFood critiquing can be highly subjective and there is nothing wrong with this list. I’ve been to every restaurant on this list, and would be happy enough to suggest any of them. I might trade out Radius for Mulberry St Cafe, or the Bread Bar though, I’d also suggest you try out Cafe Oranje if you’re looking for a good cup of coffee, I find they do it best.
Although, do come back for Radius in the summer and do brunch there. Seriously though, brunch, their breakfasts are awesome, as are their mimosas.
Solmaz
March 6, 2015 at 9:50 amThanks! I’ve heard great things about Bread Bar. I didn’t get a chance to eat at Radius — just had a drink and really liked the space, so I’ll def be back for brunch. Mulberry St Cafe and Cafe Oranje added to the list!
Jenny
March 6, 2015 at 10:58 amIf this is a burger list you’re missing:
Pink’s: Classic Diner Joint, with a nicely seasoned burger!
https://www.facebook.com/pinksburgers?rf=273250146155991
Chuck’s Burgers: Have you ever tried a lobster poutine?
http://chucksburgerbar.com
If it’s a diversity list you’re making, you’ve missed some awesome small real Hamilton restaurants though:
La Luna: Authentic Lebanese food!
http://laluna.co
Hoya: Some RAD traditional Korean and Japanese cuisine!
https://plus.google.com/104402235613418351676/about?gl=ca&hl=en
My Thai: Delicious Authentic Thai cuisine!
http://www.mythai.ca
Ole Gourmet: Gourmet Tacos are 2 for 3.99!
http://www.olegourmet.com/franchise/franchise
Solmaz
March 6, 2015 at 1:33 pmOMG I need ALL of this in my life. Thank you sooo much for the recos. Can’t wait to devour more!
Stu
March 6, 2015 at 4:31 pmMontforts ….middle eastern cuisine from several regions…everything prepared in-house…new westdale location now open…great ambience
Solmaz
March 7, 2015 at 9:32 amLOVE middle eastern food. Thanks for the reco!
Dale
March 6, 2015 at 10:49 pmI recommend La Spaghett on Upper James for a good and reasonably priced Italian meal.
Solmaz
March 7, 2015 at 9:33 amThanks so much, Dale!
Goldie
March 7, 2015 at 8:53 amgreat list! You should try Charred on James and Brux House on Locke as well!
Solmaz
March 7, 2015 at 9:34 amWill do! So many great places to visit in the Hammer. I’m will be eternally feasting there at this rate 🙂
Mark M
March 11, 2015 at 3:43 pmSome more recommendations:
Black Sheep Snack Bar’s older sister Rapscallion is, in my opinion, the best restaurant in Hamilton. Go on Thursday when they have a prix fixe special. Their other sister, Two Black Sheep, is tops for oysters, charcuterie, and cocktails.
Best burger in the city: Chef’s Wagon food truck, usually parked at the corner of Bay and Main.
For an off-beat interpretation of the bar food experience, Work.
Try breakfast at Cannon Coffee Co. on Ottawa St. They offer an assortment of savoury waffles.
Solmaz
March 12, 2015 at 4:00 pmOooh I’ve been to Cannon — loved it there! Thanks for all the other recos. Man, I’ve got some eating to do! The burger truck sounds fab.
Tim V
May 12, 2015 at 2:10 pmTwo more nuggets for you – Purple Pear and Il Fiasco
Solmaz
May 15, 2015 at 5:50 pmThanks, Tim! I was just down for Sew Hungry and devoured some food truck eats. Will head back soon to eat at more restos!
Sandy
July 29, 2015 at 11:30 amLate to the party but had to recommend one I’m not seeing anywhere in this thread: Papagayo on King West (near Hess Village). Amazing Mexican, with wonderful staff. It’s my fave place in Hamilton, which is filled with so many great restos.
Solmaz
July 30, 2015 at 11:19 pmThanks for the reco! Added to my list 🙂
Sam
August 20, 2015 at 6:26 pmIf you haven’t been to Earth to table bread bar, I would definitely recommend it. There are alot of good places to eat on Locke street.
Solmaz
August 22, 2015 at 11:18 amOh they are on the list and highly recommended by so many people! Thanks for sharing your thoughts 🙂
Barb Lundegarde
March 14, 2016 at 11:26 pmI drive from London for Gorilla Cheese every week. They were the pioneers of foodtrucks in Hamilton, the best and most popular. They have a new storefront on Ottawa St, it’s making that street popular again. Also check out Lulus Shwarma on John St!!!!!! Best Shwarma I’ve ever had!!
Solmaz
March 15, 2016 at 10:45 amoooh, thanks for the recos Barb! Yes, I actually visited the Gorilla Cheese store on Ottawa St as it was being built. Graeme is amazing!! I’ll put the shwarma on my list. Sounds delish!!
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