There is something beautifully democratic about a farmers’ market. It is where suits stand beside students, toddlers clutch apples like trophies, and conversations float between stalls like warm bread-scented confetti.

Tucked in the heart of downtown, the Hamilton Farmers’ Market has been feeding the city’s soul since 1837. It is not just a market. It is a living, breathing mosaic of cultures, ingredients, and stories simmering under one roof.

And on this visit, one stall pulled us in like a magnetic tortilla.

Mexican Kitchen – A Little Corner of Mexico

The Mexican Kitchen is more than a food counter. It feels like stepping into a pantry from Guadalajara that somehow found its way to Hamilton. Alongside the hot food, you will find shelves stocked with authentic Mexican groceries, spices, dried chilies, candies, sauces, and ingredients that make home cooks quietly rejoice. It is part eatery, part cultural embassy.

Now let’s talk about the food.

We ordered the Chorizo and the Birria Barbacoa, paired with fresh mango juice.

The chorizo had that perfect boldness. Smoky, slightly spicy, unapologetically flavorful. Each bite carried warmth without overpowering, the kind of seasoning that feels layered rather than loud. It was vibrant and satisfying without being heavy.

The birria barbacoa was the star of the show. Tender, slow-cooked, deeply seasoned meat that felt like it had been given time and respect. Rich without being greasy. Savory without being salty. It had that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes conversation pause for a moment because chewing deserves your full attention.

And the mango juice? Bright, fresh, and beautifully simple. Not syrupy. Not overly sweet. Just pure tropical sunshine in a cup, cutting through the richness of the meat like a refreshing reset button.

More than a meal

What stood out most was the authenticity. This was not a watered-down interpretation designed to play it safe. It felt rooted. Honest. The kind of food that carries heritage.

For anyone visiting the Hamilton Farmers’ Market, The Mexican Kitchen is worth the stop. Whether you are grabbing lunch, exploring new ingredients, or simply wanting to taste something that feels lovingly prepared, this little stall delivers.

Some meals fill your stomach. Some meals tell a story. Some meals bring culture to the table.

Mexican Kitchen did all three with its commitment to traditional flavor and ingredients.

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I had the pleasure of stepping into El Grito Mexicano in downtown Hamilton, and what an experience it was! From the moment I walked in, the vibrant energy of the place grabbed us. The lively Mexican music playing in the background immediately set the mood; each strum of the guitar and rhythm of the percussion made us feel like we had been transported straight to the heart of Mexico.

We started our meal with their fresh, creamy guacamole paired with perfectly crisp tortilla chips. A simple pleasure elevated by bold, authentic flavors. It was the kind of appetizer that makes you savor each bite while the music dances around you.

For the main course, we dove into chicken fajitas, sizzling hot and served with all the traditional accompaniments. The chicken was juicy and perfectly seasoned, and the colorful mix of peppers and onions added a burst of freshness. Every bite was a celebration of classic Mexican cuisine done right.

To complement the meal, Debbie chose a frozen margarita, a refreshing and tangy delight, while I enjoyed a michelada—savory, spicy, and the perfect drink to pair with the fajitas. The drinks were just as thoughtfully prepared as the main course, showing attention to detail that makes dining here feel special.

Beyond the food, the ambience and service really stole the show. The staff were friendly, attentive, and welcoming, making us feel at home from the first step through the door. The décor, infused with vibrant colors and playful touches, along with the rhythmic Mexican tunes, created an atmosphere that’s festive yet cozy—ideal for a casual date night or a fun outing with friends.

The patio at El Grito Mexicano is truly one of its hidden gems. Nestled along James Street North, it feels like a little sun-soaked escape in the middle of the city. As the daylight pours in, the space comes alive with warm energy, laughter, and the gentle rhythm of Mexican music drifting through the air. Sitting outside with the sunlight reflecting off the colorful décor creates a relaxed, almost vacation-like atmosphere that makes you want to slow down and savor every sip and bite. It’s the kind of patio where time stretches out comfortably, whether you’re enjoying a frozen margarita, a michelada, or simply watching the buzz of James Street North unfold around you

In short, El Grito Mexicano is more than just a restaurant. It’s an experience. From the music and décor to the sizzling dishes and thoughtful service, every element works together to create a true taste of Mexico right here in Hamilton. We left with full hearts, happy palates, and plans to return soon.

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Henry on James is a jazz restaurant and supper club in Hamilton.

Henry’s on James, designed by McCallum Sather, transforms a historic bank on James Street North into a sultry jazz supper club.

We are celebrating Debbie’s birthday and are looking forward to a good meal and listening to some jazz music. As we enter the restaurant, the space hums with vintage soul and modern flair. The Art Deco curves, warm wood, and subtle lighting that dance across the room. Original vault doors and molded ceilings whisper of the past, while a custom mural stretches like a melody along the walls. Every detail, from the intimate stage to the subtle acoustic touches, is carefully crafted to create rhythm, warmth, and flow. The jazz restaurant in Hamilton does not just hold music; it plays along and preserves echoes of its gilded past. This latest creation from the team behind The Other Bird opens from Thursday through Sunday with live jazz that frames both supper and night.

The jazz restaurant in Hamilton embraces 1920s glamour with tropical‑motif walls and green‑velvet banquettes that invite lingering conversation.  Henry’s feels intimate and hushed, a hidden corner of the city made for rediscovery.

We start with a bottle of Champagne. The room glows in amber light as the pianist’s fingers glide over the keys, each note curling through the air like smoke. The soft murmur of conversation fades beneath the rhythm, a heartbeat steady and smooth. I raise my glass, watching bubbles rise like tiny stars, catching my wife’s smile across the candlelight. There’s a warmth here, not just from the champagne, but from the music wrapping around us like silk. For a moment, time slows—just melody, laughter, and the quiet grace of being together.

On the menu: simplicity meets refinement. Two mains anchor the offerings: slow‑roasted prime rib carved table‑side, and a creative beet & goat‑cheese shepherd’s pie. They’re joined by starters like a garlic Caesar, crab & Gruyère dip, and classic tartare.

We go with the prime rib special. I take the Ceasar Salad and Debbie has the house salad.

The manager approaches our table with a polished carving knife gleaming under the soft light, the aroma of slow-roasted beef filling the air before a word is spoken. The prime rib rests on a board, its crust perfectly bronzed and glistening with jus. As the blade slices through, the meat reveals a blush of pink tender, juicy, almost trembling. A spoonful of potato salad waits beside a drizzle of rich, savory gravy, balanced by the sharp lift of fresh horseradish. Each bite melts effortlessly, a harmony of warmth, salt, and depth. The kind of flavor that makes conversation pause, replaced by a quiet, satisfied smile.

The cocktail list,  pays homage to jazz legends and eras with drinks like the Henry’s martini or the Fitzgerald Fizzy come layered with story. I go to the bartender and give him some of Debbie’s favorite alcohol and he makes a terrific cocktail.

Music is the heartbeat here: a duo or solo act opens the evening at 6 p.m., followed by a fuller ensemble later in the night. The stage accommodates up to five performers, making the venue a new hub for Hamilton’s thriving jazz scene.

After a lavish meal it is time for desserts. How about some cheese cake?

As the night draws to a close, Henry’s on James leaves us wrapped in its golden glow. A perfect blend of taste, sound, and timeless charm. The service is effortless yet attentive, each staff member moving with quiet rhythm, as if part of the band themselves. The bartender crafts drinks with precision and flair, adding a touch of theatre to the evening, while the servers glide between tables with smiles that make you feel like an old friend. The jazz swells softly in the background, the pianist’s final notes mingling with the sparkle of champagne and the lingering savor of that exquisite roast beef. It’s more than a meal. It’s an experience, a dance between elegance and ease, where every detail feels like part of the music. Henry’s on James doesn’t just serve dinner; it orchestrates a night you’ll want to replay again and again.

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Teo Paul owner of Union and Cote de Boeuf in Toronto has brought his magic to Le Tambour Tavern in Hamilton.

Teo Paul has taken a former rooming house and live-music avenue and converted it into a rustic Parisian Steakhouse in downtown Hamilton. Le Tambour Tavern is the latest addition to James St. North’s amazing restaurants and the buzzing food scene in Downtown Hamilton.

I am heading to Le Tambour Tavern to celebrate my 22nd wedding anniversary. Kendall did call me about my reservation and I told her that we are looking forward to coming and celebrating our anniversary.

As you enter the Tavern, the bar is impressive. The dining room is behind and the high ceilings and original flooring give it a relaxed atmosphere.

I like to see all the action and decided to sit at the extended bar section.

It gives you a good view of the bar, the dining restaurant, and the kitchen.

The food menu is classic Teo Paul, homespun, back-country, bold flavors in your face, and changes daily. The piece de resistance and game changer that adds that extra flavor and smoke to the food is an open-fire grill. This is primal cooking at its best.

The beverage menu is nonfussy and shouts try me with any of the rustic meals.

Debbie orders a Cosmo and I have a glass of Jean-Paul Daumen Mediterranee. The earthy and spice-driven red gets me ready for the evening.

We order the Cote de Boeuf and know it will be an hour before it will arrive. Who cares? I am surrounded by hip servers, and bartenders and the crowd is humming.

Debbie wants another cocktail. I tell her to tell Kendall what alcohol she likes and see if they will make her a cocktail. The versatile bartender acquiesces to her wishes and comes up with Bee’s Knees. I have another glass of La Paria.

The Cote de Boeuf with grilled vegetables and French Fries arrives.

The steak is delicious, the vegetables done over fire are amazing and the food is more than enough for two people.

It is time for dessert and we go with the Sticky Apple Cake and it is scrumptious. Debbie wants a cocktail and I tell the bartender to make something with the dessert and he delivers again.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Le Tambour.

When I go to a restaurant I want the host to greet me warmly and have a sense of humor, check. I want the place to be clean and the washrooms to be extra clean, check. I want the servers to be friendly but also have their own unique personality and style. Every server is warm, and friendly, with great smiles and funky tattoos, check. I want the food to tell a story and deliver in taste, texture, smell, and flavor, check. I want the bartender to be open to serving something from outside the menu, check.

Go and have a meal at Le Tambour. I had a great experience and strongly recommend having a meal here. Kendall is hands down, the best server in Hamilton.

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I love the mission of Radius.

We love local®, and want to celebrate all of the greatness in food, wine, spirits, and art in our local radius. We have partnerships, and friendships with amazing farmers, and local suppliers, and we are committed to source, as much as we can within our region.

Our goal is to re-introduce you to an era when food, and drink did not come pre‑packaged, and was masterfully prepared by a team that loved to cook, and aimed to please; every time. Where possible, our ingredients are sourced from our community’s great farmers, and craftspeople – and we believe that you can taste the difference. From farm fresh eggs, locally produced fine meats, to locally baked goods, and naturally grown seasonal vegetables, our Chef takes what arrives that morning, and makes beautiful food from it that day.

I am heading to Radius, the beloved and trendy restaurant which is located at 151 James Street South in downtown Hamilton. The family is in the mood for high tea and Radius has high tea once a month on the second Saturday. Radius with its comfortable and chic dining room attracts Hamiltonians with its expansive food menu paired with selections of wine, craft beer, and cocktails.

Radius is located in a historical building owned by Isaac Buchanan in 1874. I am impressed with its original tin ceilings and exposed brick which is built to give an amazing dining experience.

The server brings us the high tea menu which also gives us the history of high tea.

The first thing I like is that the server is not pushy and encourages us to take our time, enjoy conversations and start with tea. We start with the Sencha Green Tea and Cream Earl Grey Black Tea. The pots and tea cups are fancy.

We start with the Buttermilk Scones, Aged Cheddar & Chives scones. The scones are deliciously crumbly and not dry. The Buttermilk Scone with preserve is a blockbuster combination. A scone can be enhanced with chocolate, currants, or herbs. Chives give the scone an extra zing and the honey butter is amazing.

We are now ready for the savories.

The Gruyere & Ham Croissant is delicious. The Mushroom Quiche is creamy and soft with textural contrast from the mushrooms. There is a light and finespun mouthfeel to each forkful. The Smoked Salmon on Pumpernickel scream class. I love the contrasts of the flavors. The Cucumber and Cress are dainty, lacy, and ethereal. The Eggsalad on White was fresh and vibrant.

We all have a sweet tooth and look forward the cupcakes, fruit tarts and macarons.

The sweets did not disappoint.

On the second Saturday of the month, if you feel like royalty and want to experience British nostalgia without snobbery or dressing up, then the high tea at Radius in Hamilton is for you. The food, service, and surroundings are excellent.

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Franco Putiganano and his family have been serving steak and seafood for five decades in Hamilton, Ontario. I asked a few people where I should celebrate our 21st wedding anniversary and everyone said, Shakespeare. It is a vintage restaurant to celebrate special occasions.

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The Cobblestone Public House is located in Paris, Ontario which is also referred to as ‘the cobblestone capital of Canada’. Paris was voted “the Prettiest Little Town in Canada” by Harrowsmith Magazine.

Paris gets its name from the gypsum deposits nearby which are used to make plaster of Paris. Paris is located exactly where the Nith River empties into the Grand River.

I am sitting on the patio of The Cobblestone Public House overlooking the Grand River. The Cobblestone Public House opened in April 2008 and the goal is to provide an unforgettable pub experience for every customer that walks through its doors.

The server brings us the menu and for drinks, I have a Coke, and Debbie orders Something Different.

For lunch, I order the Apple, Bacon, and Brie Burger, and Debbie orders the Roast Beef Melt with Onion Rings.

The pub takes great pride in the food and service they provide, and it shows.  The burger is freshly made with quality ingredients and you can wash it down with 16 draught beers from around the world.

The patio is a comfortable, fun place to be, with great views.

The Cobblestone Public House has been around for a decade. It is a pub and restaurant that provides locally sourced food in a comfortable atmosphere, whether it’s for beer and wings, steak and wine, a drink while watching the game or a late-night snack.

The restaurant is located at 111 Grand River Street North, Paris, On, N3L1L3

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The Diplomat is a dilettantish, disparate restaurant in Hamilton, inspired by the street scenes and food markets from around the globe.

The Hamilton Food Scene

Hamilton is a sui generis city, called the Hammer by locals and Steel Town by outsiders. Hamilton is the waterfall capital of the world with more than 100 waterfalls. Hamilton has a rich past, vibrant culture, and nature surrounding it. The urban feel is unique, the arts scene is pulsating and authentic, with a vibrant downtown.

The City that gave us Tim Horton’s has a bustling food scene with incredible restaurants. I am heading downtown to have dinner at The Diplomat and then to check out the St. James North Art Crawl in Hamilton.

The Diplomat

The Diplomat is located at 43 King William Street in Hamilton. The road is closed during the summer. There are a whole bunch of restaurants on the street with patios that give it a European vibe.

I am greeted with a huge hug by Aaron who is the manager and shows me the restaurant. The Diplomat is beautiful inside. It is sleek and modern.

We decide to sit inside the restaurant, facing the street.

The tables are set properly and they have cloth napkins.

Our server is Kiri who from the first go is outstanding. Debbie orders the Current Crush cocktail and I stick to sparkling water.

Kiri recommends we try the Summer Eats menu. I tell Debbie lets order a dish each and we will share the dishes. This way we can taste all the dishes. I like the fact that Kiri understands we want to share the food and she brings us side plates and extra cutlery. As an ex-hotelier and a hotel school graduate, this attention to detail blows me away.

Appetizers

The first course consists of Strawberry and Watermelon Salad, Beef Croquettes, and Fried Green Tomatoes. I am hungry and cannot wait for this sit-down square meal bonanza to start. I notice four dishes coming to our table. Aaron brings us the Smoked Salmon Rillettes and it is on the house.

Strawberry & Watermelon Salad

The Strawberry and Watermelon Salad is so beautiful, that I am scared to even touch it. The lime ponzu (Tamari, lime juice, mirin, katsuobushi, kombu, and rice vinegar) takes the watermelon to a different level and is the perfect salad for a hot blistering day. The rice chips with the strawberry have this prodigious flavor and I am in heaven. The colors, the contrasts, and the texture are all there. This dish is exceptional.

Fried Green Tomatoes

The Fried Green Tomatoes is set to tell you what are you waiting for? Go ahead. The tomatoes are crisp. There are no after flavors, it is not soggy and the chef has mastered the tempura. The fennel herb salad brings the licorice gusto to the tomatoes. The goat cheese remoulade (a traditional French sauce made from mayonnaise, herbs, capers, and horseradish) is a classic accompaniment to fried tomatoes. An exquisite dish, cooked perfectly with all the classic complements. This dish is phenomenal.

Beef Croquettes

The Beef Croquettes (a small often rounded mass consisting usually of minced meat, fish, or vegetable coated with egg and bread crumbs and deep-fried) are crisp on the outside and moist and delicious inside. The coriander chutney is the perfect marriage for the croquette. I can taste the Dukkah spice (Dukkah is made with basic ingredients, including nuts, sesame seeds, coriander, and cumin) and it adds a nice toasty and citrus add to the chutney. Bravo, bravo, encore, encore. Wowza. I am gobsmacked by the flavors.

Salmon Rillettes

We leave the Salmon Rillettes (Rillettes is a preservation method similar to confit where meat is seasoned then slow-cooked submerged in fat and cooked at an extremely slow rate for several hours. The meat is shredded and packed into sterile containers covered in fat) to the last. We did not order it as any of us wanted a fish-flavored dish on a summer day. I take one bite of it and the complexity of the flavors hits my tongue. Olwyn and I agree that this is our favorite dish. The Green Goddess dressing (A salad dressing, typically containing mayonnaise, sour cream, chervil, chives, anchovy, tarragon, lemon juice, and pepper) makes this dish the Goddess.

Mains

The second course consists of Thai Grilled Chicken, Shrimp & Grits, and Grilled Pork Chops. Aaron also brings Vegetable Mango Curry.

Thai Grilled Chicken

Gai Yang is traditional street food in Thailand. The glaze is the most important part of this dish. The lemon grass-soy glaze is perfect. Coconut rice and peanuts are classic accompaniments. The shishito peppers give the perfect heat to the sweetness of the grilled chicken. I feel like I am sitting on Pattaya Beach and someone has brought me takeout from the local restaurant. All the complex nuances are delivered.

Shrimp & Grits

A classic brunch dish from Charleston, SC, and Low Country. I have had this with bacon and mushroom before. This dish surprised me. I was skeptical about the confit tomatoes and garlic scapes. Also, would the chorizo be too salty? The grits are amazing. The shrimps are juicy and cooked perfectly. The combo does come through and you do need to take the morsels together.

Grilled Pork Chop

The is juicy and moist. The succotash (A Southern favorite named after the word “msickquatash” of the Narragansett in New England is a vegetable dish consisting primarily of sweet corn with lima beans or other shell beans) is delicious. The cashew gremolata is what chimichurri does for a steak the gremolata does for the chop.

Mango Curry

A curry consisting of yam and chickpeas and garnished with Brussel sprouts makes for a perfect vegan dish.

Dessert

The desserts were Coconut Fritters, Vegan Basque Cheesecake, and Vanilla Millefeuille.

Coconut Fritters

The sauce and the colors all come together. I loved the caramel and the play on the purple yam. Outstanding dessert.

Vegan Basque Cheesecake

A perfect vegan dessert. The pineapple compote brings the right amount of sweetness and texture to the dessert. Remember this is not your classic New York cheesecake. The Basque cheesecake isn’t smooth or dense; instead, the dessert—baked at a high temperature—is light and scorched and caramelized on the top with a rich, gooey interior

Vanilla Millefeuille

All the trappings of a classic French dessert are here. A perfect dessert after a great meal.

The Diplomat offered me flair, great hospitality, great food, and great drinks at a great price with no snobbery. The Summer Eats Menu takes me on a tour around the world.

Before you head to The Diplomat read my strategies on how to have a good time at a restaurant.

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