Hamilton sisters and the trio behind BLK OWNED HAMONT Alexandria, Ashleigh, Abygail Montague show us what they love to see, do and eat in their hometown.
Follow along as they share their perfect day in Hamilton.
1st Stop – The Juice Kitchen Hamilton
We started our day with smoothies from The Juice Kitchen on Concession Street which is a family-owned business. We ordered from owner Mo, the Smooth Chai smoothie, J-Kid juice, and the Purple Power smoothie. They make their delicious smoothies and juices with organic and vegan products, perfect for our family's dietary concerns. The Juice Kitchen is our go-to for a yummy and healthy pick-me-up.
2nd Stop – Tiffany Falls
One of our favourite all-season activities is to hike and explore the many trails Hamilton is blessed with. Today we went to Tiffany Falls in Ancaster. The area has two waterfalls and although not always visible in winter, it's always a beautiful hike thanks to the walk along streams surrounded by forest.
3rd Stop – Hamilton Farmers' Market
A longstanding family tradition of ours is to visit the Hamilton Farmers' Market every Saturday morning. We love visiting familiar faces, picking out fresh produce and flowers and grabbing lunch at the various yummy vendors. One of our favourite spots for lunch is Latin Food & Products where you can get a taco, quesadilla and tamale for $12.99! We also love visiting Rosa's Gourmet Foods, Lesley's Flowers and The Artisan Market.
4th Stop – Reloved Boutique
Hamilton is home to some wonderful thrift and consignment stores. Located on James Street North, Reloved Boutique has a rotating seasonal collection of trendy clothes and accessories. They also sell jewellery and home goods made by local artisans. We have found some great pieces here!
5th Stop – MySweetTooth Bakery and Cafe
This downtown gourmet Asian bakery and cafe specializes in fresh milk bubble teas and Asian fusion French pastries. We got an assortment of their cream puffs including their matcha, vanilla and ube fillings. We're obsessed with bubble tea so we also got Chai and Thai bubble teas. Everything tasted like heaven.
6th Stop – Gage Park Greenhouse
Our next stop was the Gage Park Greenhouse. The Greenhouse features beautiful tropical plants and a water feature that transports you away from the busy hustle of the city. This free attraction is the perfect place to take a moment to breathe and embrace the beauty. Surrounding Gage Park is one of the biggest and best greenspaces in the city. Make sure you check ahead for new hours and availability.
7th Stop – Merk Snack Bar
For dinner, we visited Merk Snack Bar located on eclectic Ottawa Street North. Merk offers a tapas rogue menu inspired by Chef Mark's Caribbean roots. We shared jerk chicken taquitos, Korean fried chicken, oxtail taco and tater-tot poutine. Everything on the menu is between $5-8 and is meant to be shared. We also indulged in their seasonal cocktails. They also offer take-out and great meal prep options. Visiting Merk is an experience packed with flavour, good music and inviting vibes.
About Blk Owned HamOnt
BLK OWNED HAMONT's mission is to celebrate, showcase, explore, and support BIPOC businesses and entrepreneurs, especially those Black-Owned in Hamilton and the surrounding areas. Follow them on Instagram @blkownedhamont and check out their website at blkowned.ca. If you are a Hamilton Black-Owned business, connect with them to be featured and to collaborate.