Skyline image of the city of Hamilton, Ontario

Savour Ontario Eats – Spotlight on Hamilton

From steel city to artistic hub, Hamilton is more than a steel city!


Filled with rich culture, Hamilton is home to local eateries serving up some delicious flavours using local Ontario dairy. Each Hamilton neighbourhood has something unique to offer when looking to satisfy those cravings, from Dairy Bars, to Restaurants to Markets! Many small business owners pride themselves on supporting Ontario agriculture by providing locally sourced ingredients to their customers wherever possible. We’ve done some digging … and eating and compiled a list of some of Hamilton’s ‘must-haves’ for your next visit!

Dairy Bars

A marshmallow milkshake topped with whipped cream and toasted marshmallows on a white surface.

The Parlour Dairy Bar

Sweet treats aren’t the only thing The Parlour serves! The nostalgia is real with this classic dairy bar, from locally sourced ice cream by the scoop, in sundaes or in shakes, to your favorite diner classics like hotdogs, poutines, grilled cheese and funnel cakes served as many ways as you can count. Open daily for walk-in or online ordering.

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The Purple Ice Cream Shop

Sweet treats aren’t the only thing The Parlour serves! The nostalgia is real with this classic dairy bar, from locally sourced ice cream by the scoop, in sundaes or in shakes, to your favorite diner classics like hotdogs, poutines, grilled cheese and funnel cakes served as many ways as you can count. Open daily for walk-in or online ordering.

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Restaurants

Ray's Food and Liquor logo

Ray's Food & Liquor

Southern comfort with a nod to local is the best way to describe Rays! From Mains to Fixings, this Southern inspired and love infused diner doesn’t miss. Staying true to its muse, Ray’s doesn’t hold back on the dairy train – there’s sure to be creamy, buttery, or cheesy goodness in every bite. Try Ray’s Famous buttermilk chicken sandwich with a side of Mac & Cheese featuring white cheddar, curds, and gruyere… Feeling hungry? Throw in some hot honey butter cornbread with it!

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Image of the Burnt Tongue restaurant storefront.

The Burnt Tongue

With 4 locations across Hamilton, specializing in unique soups served alongside sandwiches, burgers, and frites, The Burnt Tongue is sure to have something for everyone. Much of their pride comes not only from their daily rotating menu (that’s up to 600 soups in one year!) but also from their ingredient sourcing. You can be sure that every item you order has been curated with freshness, seasonality and local in mind. Our favourites? Any soup paired with their cheesy French Onion Sandwich or Halloumi Burger - YUM!

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Rapscallion Restaurant Logo

Rapscallion & Co.

Combining a few of Hamilton’s favourite retired eateries was the goal behind Rapscallion & Co., that along with an everchanging menu of fun, interesting dishes focused not only on local ingredients but also sustainability in a way that emphasises ‘nose-to-tail’ dining. Open daily, 5pm-late, be sure to take a walk on the wild side with ‘The Best Grilled Cheese’, which features triple cream brie and pickled pork shoulder, or a rich, smooth, and buttery chicken liver brulée.

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Markets

Dundurn Market Logo

Dundurn Market

This Hamilton bodega prides themselves on sourcing the finest products that consistently meet their producer standards – Local, organic, and sustainable. Among their wonderous selection of Ontario dairy products, Dundurn also carries Ontario produced meats, produce, and packaged goods with a wide selection of diet sensitive foods. For all you Hamilton locals, check out Dundurn’s Market Box – Customizable boxes delivered weekly with your favourite locally sourced fruits, veggies, and artisan items!

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Image of the front of the Hamilton Market building.

Hamilton Farmer's Market

Open Tuesdays, Thursday, Fridays and Saturdays, the Hamilton Farmers Market comes equipped with over 40 different food vendors from bakeries, cheese shops, delis, grocers, butchers, and more! Each vendor brings a unique and flavourful experience to your trip, while using the finest local and international ingredients. Check out some of our favourites including De La Terre, Blackberry Hill Farm and Luscious D’s, all locally owned and operated bakeries!

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East Hamilton Cheese Co. logo

East Hamilton Cheese Company

Specializing in only the finest local products, the East Hamilton Cheese Company has a huge selection of classic and artisanal Ontario made cheese sourced from dairy farms province wide. They also carry some great accoutrements for your next cheese board, including jams, crackers, and meats. With product rotating weekly, stay tuned on their socials for the latest and greatest in their lineup AND unique ways to use your favourite cheeses. Want in on even more fun? Check out their monthly curated cheese boxes!

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Though these are just some of our favourites, the Hamilton food scene is nothing short of ceaseless. With unique and delicious eateries popping up constantly, you’ll be looking to plan your next foodie-focused trip before the first one even ends!

Savour Ontario Kitchen
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Savour Ontario Kitchen

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