If you asked me where I would practice if I could choose anywhere, I’d choose Hamilton every time. There’s a small town vibe that makes it great for families but culture and style are still a big part of the city. It’s the best of two worlds and only a quick jump away from Toronto. The accessibility to the GTA makes Hamilton a great place to open a community-oriented business.
So what are a few our favourite places?
Best Places To Eat In Hamilton
One of the things I’m very conscious of, as a personal injury lawyer, is the availability of accessible dining options wherever I go. It’s not just about accommodating people in wheelchairs, but also people with limited mobility of various kinds. Someone who has recently been injured in a car accident may have difficulty negotiating stairs. Here are a few of my favourite accessible options in the Hamilton area:
Cafe Limoncello — open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, there is something for even a picky eater at this laid back but still pretty eatery. If you like traditional Italian food, including delicious pasta dishes and pizzas, this is definitely a good choice! 226 Ottawa St. N., Hamilton (905) 549-3556
The Aberdeen Tavern — a taste of a time gone by is what you get at this elegant restaurant. The warm wood decor and padded banquettes makes the perfect backdrop for lunch or dinner on a cold winter day. The summer patio is a hidden gem that you won’t want to miss either. Don’t take my word for it though: the Hamilton Spectator recently reviewed it too! My tip? Go for the flat iron steak. It’s delicious! 432 Aberdeen Ave., Hamilton (905) 523-7707
Symposium Cafe & Lounge — mix a cool vibe with great food and you’ve got Stoney Creek’s Symposium Cafe. Everything from burgers and salads to striploins and butter chicken, for breakfast, lunch, dinner or even a late evening nibble. 2247 Rymal Road East, Stoney Creek (905) 578-9900.
Best Places To Caffeinate In Hamilton
The ideal way to get together and chat with a friend or get into a good book? Find a great cafe! Hamilton is chock-a-block with everything from edgy to quaint, and all with excellent coffee.
The Mulberry Coffeehouse — showcasing local artists with exhibits that change monthly and brewing some of the best coffee around, the Mulberry is a must. And you can come back some evenings for live music, local and from all around. 193 James Street North, Hamilton.
Cannon Coffee Co. — ask a barista anywhere and they’ll tell you that the coffee at the Cannon should not be missed. Fresh baked nibbles, whether for breakfast, lunch or just to enjoy a little break in the day. 179 Ottawa St. North, Hamilton.
Ark + Anchor Espresso Bar — the cafe for the socially conscious! Ark + Anchor supports local businesses and artisans, all while brewing a tremendous cup of coffee. 300 King St. West, Hamilton
Best Arts And Culture In Hamilton
Maybe because of the smaller venues or the more low-key approach but a lot of great shows and exhibitions come through Hamilton; everything from Disney on Ice to edgy photography displays. Being so close to Toronto but so much more affordable makes Hamilton the right place for a lot of artists to showcase themselves.
Performing arts and concerts — everything from large scale events at the FirstOntario Centre, where you can see Blue Man Group live, or maybe the MiniPops? Depending on what you and your family are interested in, there is a lot to choose from. Disney on Ice, anyone? Hamilton Theatre Inc. is a more low-key locale, bringing broadway style shows to our area. Or check out the McIntyre Performing Arts Centre at Mohawk College for community or school performances of some great shows.
Studies and galleries — the Art Gallery of Hamilton is definitely worth a trip, with an amazing collection as well as ongoing new exhibitions. The Norval Morrisseau exhibition that is on now is particularly good. The McMaster Museum of Art showcases the university’s extensive collection, but there are also many smaller galleries throughout the area that seek to display emerging, upcoming artists and their works.
Best Sports Options In Hamilton
If you’d rather be a spectator, check out the Hamilton Tiger Cats football, or catch some stock car racing at Flamboro Speedway. There’s hockey too with the local favorites: the Hamilton Bulldogs (OHL Hockey).
If you’re more into participating in sports, your options are limitless. You can play rounds of golf, take up axe throwing—a perhaps surprisingly satisfying activity—or try your hand at indoor rock climbing. Whatever you choose, there’s something for everyone and every age. In the winter, you can enjoy some great skating options, including the outdoor rink at Pier 8
Best Business Destination: Hamilton
There is so much growth in Hamilton, but yet as I said before, it still retains that smaller town vibe. The city is focused on its civics record and planning for the growth and retention of businesses of all sizes, from micro and home based to large agricultural or technical installations.
With excellent medical care facilities, including six area hospitals and a cancer care centre, huge employers, extensive industrial development, educational facilities at Mohawk College and McMaster University that are second to none, positioning your home and business life in a city like Hamilton makes sense. The area is attracting great talent in all areas of business and industry, making viable the opportunity to build and grow a business.
Add to the fact that Hamilton is the perfect transport hub for shipping and cargo, with air, rail, water and highway access to and from the GTA.
Whether you’re into live music, theatre, festivals or food, Hamilton has you covered. You might visit for a weekend but you’ll stay for a lifetime.