To me a weekend without brunch is a weekend wasted. An opportunity to chat with friends, eat all the delicious breakfast foods you can imagine, and drink too much coffee. I have had brunch at many restaurants in my almost four years at Mac, and have devised a list of the absolute best brunch spots in Hamilton, so you don’t have to bother eating any mediocre eggs, and can skip to the crème de la crème.
Disclaimer: I am one of the very rare people who don’t like bacon or sausage, but my seriously carnivorous brother vouches for the meaty goodness of all of these restaurants' menus.
Eden’s Cafe:
Eden’s Café is only three blocks from campus, offers all day breakfast, with many options for everyone from your healthiest friend to the biggest greasy-spoon lover. The food is also the most budget friendly for students, on this list. Don’t let my unsophisticated description deceive you, though, the food here is delicious. The servers and owner are always very kind and energetic, the portions are huge and the brunch is scrumptious.
Price: $
Location: 1548 Main Street W.
My favourite at Eden’s: Shakshuka
Saint James:
Probably the most hipster brunch spot in Hamilton, Saint James has a continually changing menu every weekend. The options almost always include the popular “Woodsman”, egg on sourdough toast, with peameal bacon, sausage, home fries and tomato, and “Avocado Toast”, very jazzed up sourdough toast with an egg, avocado, feta, roasted peppers, lentils, and salt. In the spring and summer there is also a patio set up along the storefront. The restaurant’s minimalistic style is reflected on their short weekly brunch menu of 5 or 6 options. The bright simplicity of Saint James provides a lovely spot to spend your weekend morning, or afternoon… eating dishes that are made with fresh local ingredients and are absolutely delectable.
Price: $$
Location: 170 James Street N.
My favourite at Saint James: Avocado Toast
Aberdeen Tavern:
For a fancier choice, head to Aberdeen Tavern. Although slightly more expensive than the other options on this list, your taste buds will thank you! With leather-upholstered benches, dark wooden tables and a large mantle, there is a warm English atmosphere at Aberdeen. There is one side of the menu devoted to vegetarian brunch options, and the other to regular brunch choices. The menu is full of gourmet twists on traditional brunches, and is bound to make any foodie happy.
Price: $$
Location: 432 Aberdeen Avenue
My favourite at Aberdeen Tavern: BBQ Tofu Scramble (pictured above, it doesn't present beautifully, but it tastes amazing!)