Buzz worthy: 5 restaurants in Hamilton, Burlington generating social media love
When you can’t make a decision about what restaurant to go to or order from, you simply can’t go wrong with any of these choices. These are eateries that consistently generate glowing reviews from patrons. Visit while they’re hot!
Cowabunga
4.5-star average on Google Reviews
Co-owned by Andy Huynh and Justin Tanada, Cowabunga won Best Cheese Slice in the World at the International Pizza Challenge in Las Vegas in 2024. The secret is the 72-hour sourdough crust. Comedian and Hamilton Pizza Bus Tour founder Joseph DeBenedictis called Cowabunga “one of the most famous spots in Canada” and has included it as a stop on the pizza tour. The business started as a take-out spot on Upper Wellington at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, before expanding to a full dine-in restaurant downtown Hamilton in 2023. The menu features favourites such as Canadian, Hawaiian, Our Marg, as well as more unique flavours like the 1 Up with a truffle cream base. Cowabunga also offers a fully vegan version of a number of its signature menu options, including the GG (garlicky greens), which is to die for.
“The hype is absolutely real! The 1UP was hands down my favourite – it was so addictive that I literally couldn't stop thinking about it for days. The hot honey drizzle takes it to another level, adding the perfect balance of sweetness and heat that makes every bite unforgettable. On top of the food, the vibe is so cool and laid-back, making the whole experience even better. Without a doubt, this is the best pizza I've ever had. Cowabunga has officially ruined every other pizza for me, and I already can't wait to go back.” – Palak Lalwani, Google Review
30 Vine St., Hamilton
cowabungapizzeria.ca
El Inka
4.9-star average on Google Reviews
Opened in March 2018, El Inka is a family-owned restaurant offering authentic Peruvian cuisine. The unassuming location is in a Burlington plaza, with a vision “to become ambassadors of Peruvian cuisine in Canada.” The menu features ceviche, tiradito, and other seafood delights, along with handcrafted pisco cocktails.
“Between us we tried several ceviches (the fish one being the best), lamb shank, beef short rib, chicken fried rice and more. The table’s consensus was that the short rib was the best main although all dishes were delicious.” – Jacqueline W. on Trip Advisor.
“@elinkacanada is my favourite restaurant for sure and it keeps reminding me why every time I go. I’m always surprised at how good it is. Like I walk in going ok last time was a fluke. But then they just deliver these fantastic dishes packed with authentic Peruvian flavours that you don’t get everyday.” – @joseph_video on Instagram
1940 Appleby Line, Burlington
elinka.ca
IG: elinkacanada
Le Tambour
4.9-star average on Google Reviews
This French bistro owned by chef Teo Paul finally had its breakout moment after popular TV series Heated Rivalry filmed cozy romantic scenes inside. Paul was recently interviewed in Chatelaine where he recalls the immediate response after the show aired, “the reservation calls came rolling in: from Los Angeles, Chicago, Shanghai, even Australia. And the best part is this place is actually really good, so they come back.” The menu now includes a series of Heated Rivalry-themed cocktails, alongside the traditional menu of French classics like steak tartare, escargot, and côte de boeuf.
“My sister and I ate here last weekend (because of Heated Rivalry, of course!) we had asparagus as an appetizer, I had the burger and fries, my sister had the wings and we had the ginger cake for dessert. I also had the ‘Russians don’t blush’ cocktail, everything was 10/10. We were visiting from the US, but I would so come back again for that meal.” – Kersten Brynley, Google Review
“Came to the restaurant because it was featured on a show but stayed and fell in love with it after having their food and interacting with their friendly staff.” – Wei Yang, Google Review
345 James St. N., Hamilton
letambourtavern.com
IG: letambourtavern
Lucky Duck
4.8-star average on Google Reviews
This is chef Matt Kershaw’s (of The Other Bird restaurant group fame – The Mule, Rapscallion, Henry’s) newest endeavour. Kershaw has the Midas touch when it comes to creating restaurants with that je ne sais quoi blend of the perfect vibe and menu, and Lucky Duck is another winner. This is a blackboard menu bistro with much of the seating gathered around the large bar for that feeling that you’re a part of the exciting behind-the-scenes action. Large windows flank all sides, giving table diners a front-row seat to the action on the street. The menu changes often and follows what is fresh and available.
“Everytime I am amazed at how much Matt understands flavour. Every bite is amazing. I walk away with a smile.” – @intsagraham1 on Instagram
“We were served by Matt Kershaw himself! The food was fabulous. Especially the stuffed zucchini blossoms and the lobster thermador! Yum!” – @blh_interiors on Instagram
“Calamari Etouffe, and Pork Tenderloin. Get them don't ask questions and then smile. These were AMAZING!” – @matthew_purchase on Instagram
302 James St. N., Hamilton
luckyduckhamilton.com
IG: luckyduckhamilton
Mai CàPhê
5-star average on Google Reviews
This stunning new café has a lovely backstory beginning with a family coming to Canada from Vietnam and opening a pizza business at 353 Brant St. in 1994. Fast forward to 2004, when one daughter added a new hair studio business to the address, and then to 2026 when youngest daughter Deanna Mai again added another business to the location, this time a stylish new café on the second floor. Vietnamese coffee is the focus, bringing the family’s culture and history full circle. The café has been an instant success, with the community drawn to the story behind the business, as well as the beautiful, relaxing environment. Influencers were quick to take note of the gorgeous rooftop patio.
“I've actually been there a few times and I really enjoyed my time there, the second floor view is something truly special that no other cafes have!” – @_905studios on Instagram
“Beautiful interior with a modern cafe menu featured with Vietnamese influences. I had the pandan cold foam coffee and BBQ pork banh mi and both were great. Lots of seating with plugs built into the couch so I could see myself working there during the day.” – Eric Vu, Google Review
“I went to this place for the coffee cause I was genuinely excited about the cold foam flavours, and when I walked in the atmosphere blew me away. I absolutely freaking adore their patio/outside space.” – Hira Waheed, Google Review
353 Brant St., Burlington
maicaphe.ca
IG: maicaphe