King James: Vol. 2
We couldn’t tell the food story of James Street North in just one issue. The street, without a doubt, the heart of downtown Hamilton, is constantly evolving but rooted in the success of mainstays and the neighbourhood’s ethnic diversity.
Welcome back to more stories about the James North dining district.
Noteworthy that it’s the address of the Canadian National Railway Station (between Murray and Strachan), which for decades after its opening in 1931 was the arrival point for many immigrants settling in Hamilton. After its closure in the late ’80s, it was reopened as Liuna Station – a celebrated event space. Facing that architectural gem is Immigration Square with its fountain, gardens and commemorative statues. The multicultural character that immigrants gifted to Hamilton is reflected in the variety of cuisines on this street alone.
In part two of the James North story, we’ll begin at the north end of the street, steps away from the bay, yacht clubs and Bayfront Park, which deserves to be the pride of Hamilton. The eateries one encounters heading south are unique and you won’t find a Tim Hortons or Starbucks. You will, however, find an iconic donut shop.
Grandad's Coffee and Donuts
1-574 James St. N.
grandads.ca
IG: grandadsdonuts
This family-owned business is a Hamilton favourite, with patrons arriving even from out of town. The donuts have been described as old school, classic and the shop boasts an extensive repertoire of yeast and cake-based donuts. The signature doughnut is the orange twist, and walnut crunch seems to be a favourite, too. If you’re concerned about getting your choices before they sell out, pre-order. The shop is now open 24 hours a day, five days a week, serving from a takeout window from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Le Tambour Tavern
345 James St. N.
letambourtavern.com
IG: letambourtavern
The drum (tambour) was beating in 2023 when it became clear that something would be opening in the beloved and closed This Ain't Hollywood music venue. Le Tambour, the Parisian-inspired steakhouse/tavern, which features open-fire cooking elements, didn’t disappoint. It has an impressive pedigree as the fourth restaurant of chef Teo Paul, alongside Union and Côte de Boeuf in Toronto, and Heart's in Beaver Valley/Kimberley. Chef Fady Dawood and Nester Cabra head the kitchen.
Le Tambour’s masterly kitchen delivers dinner daily with brunch added on the weekends, and a patio for summer happiness. Watch for the Wednesday prix fixe, and special collaborations with impressive eateries – recently Fat Rabbit in St. Catharines – and they’ll soon be launching a multi-course chef's table experience. As a tribute to the space’s previous chapter, This Ain't Tambour live music nights will be run coinciding with James Street’s Art Crawl.
May Coffee & Cakes
334 James St. N.
IG: maycoffeecakes
Owner Michelle Tran wants to bring to Hamiltonians the flavours and specialties from her home country of Vietnam and those discovered on her extensive travels in Asia. Supported by her husband Jeff, sister Khuong, and mother-in-law Linda, May Coffee & Cakes is a family affair.
Emblematic of Michelle’s favourite month – May – the café’s logo includes a blossom from the Redbud tree also called the “happiness flower/tree” in Vietnamese. Tran notes that they put a lot of love and care into everything they produce at May Coffee & Cakes. Asian-fusion drinks, Matcha lattes, Vietnamese iced coffee, a rotating selection of made-from-scratch baked goods and bánh mi sandwiches are specialties.
Synonym
328 James St. N.
synonymshop.com
IG: synonymshop
Open since 2018, ownership of this café-bistro has evolved, constantly elevating experiences. A brunch-type menu described as Mediterranean/Middle Eastern fusion is on offer all day and can be enjoyed with superb coffee, cocktails, beer or wine. (It’s my “go to” place for hummus and tahini!) Its brand points to a celebration of art, community, and culture. Rotating displays of art and commendably curated art books are an attraction, as well as Friday jazz nights. Events showcasing Hamilton artists are linked to the monthly Art Crawl. An artful interior and a dog-friendly patio await your visit. Synonym also offers brunch and lunch catering for events and meetings. Its goal is to make Synonym a community hub joyfully welcoming everyone to make memories.
Henry’s Jazz Club
303 James St. N.
henrysonjames.com
IG: henrys.onjames
Newsboy caps and suspenders on some front-of-house staff signal nostalgia and a 1920s vibe. You’re in Other Bird’s new jazz club – Henry’s – named after co-owner Erin Dunham’s wee son. Lighting enhances the cavernous space, with tropical tones and a magnificent ceiling. Poetic descriptions of cocktails entice, along with a well-curated wine list. And then there’s the food. Starters and shareables are both classic and creative. No surprise that there’s shrimp cocktail and the inspired wedge salad is eye candy and delicious. The big attraction is the tender prime rib that appears tableside in an impressive “Cadillac” serving cart, carved by chef Matt Kershaw himself. Sundays feature a jazz brunch.
“Henry’s on James is about slowing down, feeling the music, and sharing a beautiful meal in good company,” says Dunham. Watch for details about a membership program. Featured musicians are listed on their website calendar. Henry’s is sure to become a Hamilton gem.
Eem Khao
301 James St. N.
eemkhao.com
IG: eemkhao
If you are a fan of the team running Pintoh on John Street North, you’ll be racing to their new venture on James North. Inspired by their travels to Thailand, Eem Khao is a Thai restaurant based on Yaowarat, the Chinatown in Bangkok. Expect homey and comfort foods like khao man gai, poached chicken thighs served with a schmaltzy rice and an addictive soy bean sauce. Or gway tiew ruea, aka boat noodles, in a rich and aromatic broth darkened by various soy sauces and fresh herbs. Kin khao yang? That’s a Thai greeting that means “have you eaten yet?” EK hopes you come hungry and leave full.
Martello
298 James St. N.
martellorestaurant.ca
IG: martello.restaurant
Martello has a clear message: “If you’re looking for an old-school Italian joint, look elsewhere!” Whether it’s a first date, an anniversary or a casual night with friends, it aims for a vibe that is playful and warm, while providing service and a menu that echoes fine dining. Menu highlights are fresh house-made pasta and Neapolitan-style pizza. They want readers to know about what they call their Big Ass Patio, eclectic wine list and excellent playlist. Martello aims to celebrate food, culture and connection.
Photos: Studio Dinner Party
Tamasha Indian Resto-Bar
286 James St. N.
tamasha.ca/hamilton
IG: tamasha_hamilton
With locations in Toronto and Kitchener, this James North newcomer promises to bring “tamasha” – the Hindi word for “spectacle” – to the space previously occupied by Wild Orchid. The brand offers various forms of fusion. “We combined the three key elements India has attained worldwide popularity for – its delectable cuisine, its soul-soothing music, and the enigma of the Bollywood industry.” Expect modern Indian cuisine, sometimes with playful twists and often vegetarian, in a stylish setting.
Saltlick Smokehouse
282 James St. N.
saltlick.ca
IG: thesaltlicksmokehouse
If you’re looking for a place to indulge in smoky protein, make Saltlick Smokehouse your destination. Kyle and Jennifer Ferreira have been part of the Saltlick/Bar Sazerac team for years and took over ownership a few years ago, since building on the eatery’s fame and reputation. Maintaining a high standard of Southern-style BBQ, they smoke everything in house to mouthwatering perfection. The best bet is their family-style platter. Create your own combo of brisket, (pulled) pork shoulder, Southern-fried chicken, Nashville hot chicken, pork belly nuggets, jerk chicken, pork side ribs, Nashville taco, and pork belly taco. Side choices include mac n’ cheese, beans, slaw, fries, cornbread, Brussels sprouts, and house salad.
Photo: Saltlick Smokehouse
Bar Sazerac
278 James St. N.
barsazerac.ca
IG: therealbarsazers
While you’re at Saltlick, check out the owners’ cozy and creative Bar Sazerac next door. They have a great summer patio. Cocktails are all designed in-house from house-made syrups, infusions, bitters and even a few liqueurs. Their summer menu is enticing.
Rise Above Pizza & Wings
274 James St. N.
riseabovepizzeria.com
IG: riseabovepizzeria
Rise Above is Hamilton’s first and only all-vegan pizzeria that offers more than pizza. All ingredients are plant-based with some gluten-free options and are made in-house. The “pepperoni” topping is made from “seitan” – a versatile product that doubles for pepperoni slices and is also used to create deep-fried wings in a range of flavours. The menu includes salads, wraps and dessert – and a licensed beverage program. Its brand? Here’s what they say: “Sci-fi throwbacks, retro VHS, pinball games, and a low-key energy that feels like your coolest friend’s basement. Born from punk ethics, Rise Above is proudly queer-friendly and fiercely inclusive. The art is local, the energy is honest, and the food is dynamite.”
Mesa
255 James St. N.
mesahamilton.com
IG: mesahamont
Mesa has been serving delicious Mexican food and warm hospitality for over a decade. The menu includes classics and a "new selections" menu will feature add-on dishes and cocktails for a limited time. Dive into the diverse tastes of Mesa – deep-fried flour tortillas filled with melted cheese (and chicken or beans), served with a side of sour cream, pico de gallo, and salsa. If you’re lucky, they’ll be serving carlota, a chilled dessert with delicate layers of vanilla cookies, with a rich, creamy filling infused with the zest and juice of limes or fresh strawberries.
Charred Rotisserie House
244 James St.N.
charred.ca
IG: charredrotisserie
This cozy family-owned restaurant recently reopened after severe damage from a fire forced it to close for about a year. Here, the specialty is rotisserie chicken done over charcoal, basted with a piri piri sauce. The carefully crafted menu sees everything made in-house. Fan favourites include poutine made with piri piri-marinated cheese curds and crisp, house-made Caesar salad. Diners can top these off with chicken or brisket. Charred is open seven days a week, serving lunch and dinner and offering catering.
Bard and Bear Games Café
237 James St. N.
thebardandbear.com
IG: thebardandbear
This café’s primary goal is fun, but there’s also food. For a small game cover fee, patrons get unlimited access to a library of more than 1,000 games to play during their visit. The menu of light food, desserts, and drinks focuses on comfort food and rotating seasonal specials, sourced locally wherever possible. Sandwiches are served on buns from nearby Ola Bakery, coffee and espresso are from Relay, and ice cream is from Willards. Combine that with a variety of hot and cold drinks, beer and cider, cocktails and mocktails, wine and mead. Reservations are advised.
Ola Bakery
230 James St. N.
olabakeryhamilton.ca
IG: ola_bakery_andpastries
Ola Bakery embodies its motto that “the best way to start the day is with a fresh pastry.” It specializes in traditional (Portuguese) and modern pastries, and there are soups, sandwiches and mains. A favourite of patrons is the pastel de nata, but be sure to try the pudim flan with its creamy custard texture that melts in your mouth. The folks at Ola are proud of their Torrié coffee – a toasted coffee, blending arabica and robusta beans for optimal flavour. They describe its aromatic profile as “hints of caramel, cocoa, cinnamon, and toasted bread.”
Caro on James
229 James St. N.
carorestaurant.com
IG: carorestaurant
Caro on James was at first an expansion of Caro on Ottawa, but is now alone representing the Caro brand. It’s a neighbourhood favourite known for its approachable, casual Italian menu and relaxed vibe. On weeknights it’s your dinner stop and the weekend menu offers a brunch. (Free for children under 10.) Watch for specials such as prosecco or pizza night. Pizzas and pastas are available gluten free. Caro is a keen supporter of Art Crawl and the local arts scene, proudly featuring the work of Hamilton favourite Gord Leverton.
Bonito’s Pizzeria & Gelato
219 James St. N.
bonitospizzeria.ca
IG: bonitos.pizzeria
The old now-closed Portuguese market is the new home of Bonito’s, which is bringing a slice (and a scoop) of authentic Italy to James North. Rooted in family tradition and inspired by the flavours of Modena, Naples, and Rome, Bonito’s specializes in Roman-style pizza al taglio – a light, crispy, airy pizza baked in large trays, cut by the slice, and topped with ingredients imported straight from Italy. It also serves a range of delicious gelato options.
Rossano (Ross) Bonito is resurrecting his interest in the world of hospitality. He says: “Behind every bite is a story – one that began in a family kitchen, watching pizza dough come to life alongside mom, and grew into a passion for sharing the craft with others.” Bonito’s, he says, is about more than just food—it’s about culture, connection, and creating something truly memorable for the Hamilton community.
The Brain Bar
199 James St. N.
IG: herecomesthebrain
If you know, you know. In a Toronto Life magazine article, Eric Robertson, co-owner and chef at the Michelin award-winning Pearl Morissette, recently named the Brain Bar as a favourite Hamilton place (along with Le Tambour and Barton Street’s Maisy Pearl and Maipai Pizza.) Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the Brain Bar has been named by some as a top hipster hotspot to be enjoyed indoors or on its patio. It’s described as a funky, casual neighbourhood bar serving craft beer, cocktails, coffee/food and a bunch of other stuff.
PER'SO'NA
14 James St. N.
eatpersona.com
IG: eatpersona
Your north to south stroll on James North now finds you close to Robert Street where we ended our stroll in part one. You may want to continue to stroll towards King Street to explore the eatery that – since the publication of James North part one – is planned for the space that was previously Bardo James.
Opened in mid-July, the Italian eatery’s brand is: “Where your next favourite flavour meets the next version of you. Inspired by tradition, reinvented for today.”
More to discover on James North
The diversity of James North includes even more dining options. Award-winning Gate of India has for almost 40 years served authentic Bangladeshi-style Indian food; Afro Fusion Restaurant in the former home of Castelli Cucina, focuses on west African traditions; where Harbour Diner closed, Mickey’s Jamaican Jerk opened its second location; Dunas Verdes has served Portuguese cuisine for over 30 years; El Grito Mexicano offers all the classics; Pho B&T Viet Thai perfectly blends Vietnamese and Thai specialties. Visit neighbourhood favourites such as Farside Bar, Five Star Café, Our Corner Bar and Grill, and Jane’s Place. Grab a coffee at Architect Hair Design or the James North General Store. Along the way, notice the new location for Willard’s Ice Cream next to the ever-popular Mulberry Coffeehouse.
Still to come, Niku Niku Japanese BBQ (46 James N.), opening in August, promises to bring “the ultimate dining experience to Hamilton. Dive into the sizzling art of all-you-can-eat, flame-grilled BBQ paired with authentic Japanese flavours crafted to perfection.”
And worth a mention is the now-closed Wild Orchid, which offered a true Portuguese experience for 28 years.
As a dining district, James North alone offers many reasons for a day trip to Hamilton. The new-ish GO station is on James North right beside the old CN Station, providing easy access for new visitors to Hamilton.
Photo: Mulberry Coffeehouse
Afro Fusion Resto
337 James St. N.
afrofusionresto.com
IG: afrofusionresto
Dunas Verdes Restaurant
253 James St. N.
IG: dunasverdes_
El Grito Mexicano
236 James St. N.
elgritomexicanoon.com
IG: el.grito.mexicano
Farside Bar
288 James St. N.
farsidebar.com
IG: farsidehamilton
Five Star Café
225 James St. N.
Gate of India
201 James St. N.
gateofindia.ca
IG: gate.ofindia
Jane’s Place Hamilton
302 James St. N.
IG: janesplacehamilton
