Whether you're dining in or taking out, Hamilton's a great breakfast and brunch town. From sweet short stacks to perfect pastries, here are just some of the city's morning meal stars.
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Saints James Espresso Bar & Eatery
170 James St N, Hamilton
Everything on the menu at this popular downtown coffeeshop and eatery is worth a try, but they're famous for their “Drive-thru” breakfast sandwich or unbelievable short stack pancakes with rotating flavours like Cinnabon, lemon ricotta or apple crumble. Their coffee is amazing too, with unique ‘steam-punk’ style machines for brewing.
The Aberdeen Tavern
432 Aberdeen Ave, Hamilton
This Kirkendall restaurant housed in an old converted bank is another popular brunch destination. They take brunch seriously with two-course options including crab cakes and smoked salmon apps and mouth-watering mains like Tostada Rancheros and cheesecake-stuffed French Toast. Check out their delivery menus as well.
The Cannon
179 Ottawa St N, Hamilton
This friendly, sunny coffeeshop is not only a favourite with its Crown Point neighbours but Hollywood directors too! When in town a few years ago shooting a film, Guillermo Del Toro posted this on twitter: "Had the best breakfast at Cannon… The Canadian brunch plate. Best, fluffiest, chewiest fresh-made waffles ever!". They're currently focused on takeaway coffee, tea, pastries and great breakfast sandwiches. They'll also deliver beans locally to help caffeinate your homemade brunch.
The Mule
41 King William St, Hamilton
Get your Mexican style breakfast fix at this long-serving downtown favourite with unbelievable tacos, Huevos Rancheros and breakfast Bravas with a side of Caesars or bottomless Mimosas.
Caro
4 Ottawa St N, Hamilton
228 James St N, Hamilton
Add a taste of Italy to your morning with Caro's unique twist on brunch classics like their Sicilian Sunrise featuring crispy polenta, fresh mozzarella, Italian gravy, sunnyside eggs and crispy pancetta or Porchettea Benny served on grilled focaccia with Hollandaise, rosemary & parmesan fries or salad. Make a dine-in reservation or order your meal to go at their original Ottawa Street North location or their newest spot on James Street North.
Motel Restaurant
359 Barton St E, Hamilton
Make sure your phone's charged when you visit this Gram-worthy, often photographed east end brunch spot. The pink walls and neon signs evoke a cool Miami vibe. But the real star here is the menu thanks to items like the luxurious Champagne Pancakes (served with Devonshire cream, raspberry and pink champagne coulis and gold flakes) or the more savoury buttermilk fried chicken & waffles. Playful cocktails names include the Naughty Chambermaid and Flamingo Brunch Paloma.
Breezy Corners
1480 Highway 6 North
1145 Main Street East
Looking for the ultimate diner breakfast? You'll taste the difference at Breezy's thanks to their from-scratch approach to fresh, quality ingredients. You'll find generous portions of all the breakfast classics (and a great kid's menu) at this family run operation with locations in both Freelton (close to Christie Lake and Valens Conservation Areas) and the east end near Gage Park.
Electric Diner
96 George Street
This popular Hess Village diner is a treat for all the senses. The brightly coloured decor combines nostalgic elements from different eras including the 1980s and 1950s. The breakfast menu is loaded with nostalgic comfort food as well brightly coloured standouts like Rainbow Brite Pancakes, topped with rainbow cream cheese icing and Froot Loops.
Caniche French Bakery
346 Wilson Street E, Ancaster
If you're looking for a quick but decadent breakfast treat to-go, this French bakery in Ancaster should be on your list. Its fresh, flaky croissants and pain au chocolat sell out quickly, so try go before noon.