The city is cut into two sections by the Niagara escarpment – Upper and Lower Hamilton. As the city grew, development spread to the southern, upper part, aka ‘the mountain’ and joined older neighbourhoods areas like Concession Street. The blend of old and new has been dynamic.
EAT
Casual
Chicago Style Pizza Shack
Who needs to go to Chicago for deep dish pizza when you can find it here on Upper Sherman Avenue? Thin, thick or stuffed pizzas entices diners from all over the region. Other popular Italian classics include generous pasta carbonara.
Paninoteca
Residents of Upper Hamilton know where to get the best sandwiches. It’s a toss between the veal (topped with cheese and slathered in sauce based on an old family recipe) or tender prime rib, served on a large crusty roll. You decide.
Sasso
The same owner as La Piazza (another local fave) is behind this relaxed resto serving modern Italian cuisine. Seasonal ingredients shape the menu, but you’ll find signature dishes like sausage penne seafood linguini, pizzas and chicken parmigiano any time.
Caribbean and Canadian Restaurant
This is where locals in the know come for some of the best jerk chicken in the city. Other popular items here include the ox tail stew, various chow meins and very generously portioned roti.
Odd Burger
Hamilton is the latest addition to this Ontario fast-food vegan burger chain. Located near Lime Ridge Mall, the menu goes beyond burgers with plant-based versions of chicken sandwiches, milkshakes, and wraps.
Fishing Sushi
Concession Street is now home to this popular and authentic Japanese restaurant. Sushi is the stand-out, thanks to an extensive menu featuring an enticing assortment of rolls, sashimi and blowtorch pressed sushi. Its party trays are a great way to feed a crowd.
The Juice Kitchen Hamilton
If you need a nutrition boost, this is the place on Concession Street. Juices and smoothies (try the pineapple pop) tap into the goodness of fresh, healthy ingredients to help put the pep back in your step.
Jonny Blonde
This popular eatery started off as a food truck, but when success hit, it opened a brick-and-mortar location. Its peachy blonde sandwich with roasted chicken, brie and peach chutney is must-have, along with its wickedly good poutine, made with real cheese curds. Grab a butter tart, too, whenever they’re available.
The Dirty South
A new Concession Street location has been added to Dirty South’s offerings that include a Barton Street dine-in spot, and its original food truck. Expect expertly executed finger-licking BBQ classics, from pulled pork to Nashville hot chicken.
Heal Burger
Yes, people really do drive an hour or more to grab a rainbow-coloured, plant-based burger, crafted lovingly out of chickpeas, red and white kidney beans, or black beans. There’s other healthy fare like waffles, smoothie bowls, fries and shakes, plus decent coffee, too.
Cowabunga
The pizza competition in Hamilton is fierce, but since opening in October 2020, Cowabunga has managed to grab plenty of attention with its east coast spin on classic pizza. It begins with high-quality flour, great ingredients and a precise cook to get that perfect crispy-chewy balance. Pairs nicely with one of its imported Crush sodas.
Fine Dining
La Spaghett
This elegant restaurant on Upper James is a hidden gem tucked into an unassuming plaza. It's famous for its delicious sauces (pesto, tomato, olive oil or cream based) created from family recipes. Its wine list features many wines not available at the LCBO.
Coffee shops and treats
Crumbuns
You can feed your sweet tooth at this cute bakery on Concession Street, named after the owner’s grandmother whose nickname was Crumbuns. Go for a classic butter tart or lemon square. Try something new like a strawberry pop tart cheesecake or a candy cookie slice.
La Bakeri
There’s stiff competition for the best cannoli in the city, but this Fennell Avenue shop is definitely a contender. Open in 1980, its super fresh versions, including salted caramel, Nutella and Oreo, and its Sicilian baked goods are well loved.
Munchies Coffee House & BARKery
All-day breakfast sandwiches, signature waffles and a great coffee selection are all on the menu at this dog-friendly restaurant and cafe on the east mountain.
Iconic
Harry’s Fish ‘n Chips
For almost 40 years, the deep fryer has been very busy serving locals. Fish (haddock and halibut) and fries emerge crispy and golden. Go for broke and swap in poutine and a side of mushy peas.
Global
Little Saigon
A visit in 2016 from comedian Jerry Seinfeld put this restaurant in a small plaza near Lime Ridge Mall on the map. It drew curious diners who were won over by its tasty Pho, fresh spring rolls and stir-fried noodle dishes.
Alexandros
Opa! When time’s short, phone ahead and get your grub, like souvlaki combos, to go. Or relax at a table over gyro platters, ground beef-stuffed grape leaves and skewers of marinated shrimp.
SEE AND DO
Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
With close to 50 aircraft on display, this is Canada’s largest flying museum. Among its many events and airshows, the museum’s biggest draw is the Avro Lancaster – the only one in the world you can purchase a flight on. Planes are lovingly restored not just to display them, but to fly them, too – making this a must-visit for aviation buffs and thrill seekers alike.
Sam Lawrence Park
Catch a full panoramic view of the city and harbour from this sweet lookout at just steps from Concession Street eateries. When there’s fireworks happening on holiday weekends, catch them from here.
Street Art
While much of the city's murals are clustered in the lower city, there are still some great murals to discover on the mountain.
At 533 Concession Street at the edge of the escarpment, you'll find an explosion of yellow, blue and green wrapped around a business at Summit Street by prolific local artist Tim Nijenhuis.
Just off Concession Street, on Upper Wentworth next to Mountain Lanes, see a newer mural in honour of Black Lives Matter by various artists including Mr. Noice Guys, Nick Sweetman and Elicser Elliott.
Cameron Speedway and Amusements
Feed your need for speed and thrills at this expansive amusement centre currently open for go-karting on a mile-long track (weather permitting) and paintball.
The Warrior Factory
Canada’s first Warrior Factory location is now open on Upper James Street. This self-described ‘Ninja Warrior Obstacle Park’ puts the fun into fitness in this 6,500 foot facility.
Escarpment Stairs
Get your steps in at one of five sets of stairs connecting Hamilton Mountain (the part of the city that runs along the Niagara Escarpment) and the lower city below. With hundreds of steps each, it can be a grueling workout, but the views are definitely worth it.
SHOP
Lime Ridge Mall
For visitors looking for a local shopping mall, Limeridge is your go-to on the Mountain with easy access to the LINC highway and public transportation. Great fashion retailers, salons and a great food court are all on offer here.
Candi Werx
Visit the sweetest shop on Concession Street. It carries everything from artisan chocolate to treats imported from Britain, to nostalgic favourites (like wax lips and Pez). For kids, this is heaven.
Big B Comics
Comic fans will make the drive to this well-loved store because of the encyclopedic knowledge of the staff across many genres. It’s stocked with new releases and rare editions. Watch kids get excited about reading here.
For more information, visit the Concession Street BIA website.
Michele Sponagle is a prolific journalist born and raised in Hamilton. Her work has appeared in top media outlets across Canada. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.