Hamilton Cuisine [Archive] - Page 4

Jon Dalton

May 7, 2009, 4:33 PM

The Pepper Jack was the best music venue Hamilton has ever had and will ever have. I've played most venues and nowhere else could compare with the sound there, on or off the stage. Doug is the best sound guy I've ever had the pleasure of working with. Ken booked the most consistently good shows and you could go there any night and know it would at least be something tasteful.

Unfortunately good venues don't make money, and to run one you have to do it for the love. Anyone can start a shitty bar that plays bad music and the idiots will line up out the door.

I was actually depressed for a few days after finding out about it. All clubs have a life cycle but this one should have been a permanent fixture. Everyone should go there at least once before the end of the month because we're witnessing the end of an era in Hamilton music.

Jon Dalton

May 7, 2009, 7:21 PM

On the plus side, look for some action on Augusta St. in the next couple months. My friend just bought the building beside Winking Judge.

rousseau

May 7, 2009, 7:21 PM

The Pepper Jack was the best music venue Hamilton has ever had and will ever have.
No way. The Raven (or was it just "Raven"?) was absolutely the best small music venue in Hamilton, it's not even close. I don't know about the comparative sound quality for the musicians, of course, but that's not all that important when you're talking about "best."

rousseau

May 7, 2009, 7:23 PM

On the plus side, look for some action on Augusta St. in the next couple months. My friend just bought the building beside Winking Judge.
Augusta was my favourite pub neighbourhood when I was in Hamilton. Which side of the Judge? Was it already something pub or entertainment related, or will this be a new addition to the scene there?

drpgq

May 7, 2009, 10:02 PM

Augusta was my favourite pub neighbourhood when I was in Hamilton. Which side of the Judge? Was it already something pub or entertainment related, or will this be a new addition to the scene there?

I'm guessing it is the site of the Spotted Pig between the Judge and Aout N About. I always that another pub was better suited to that location anyways.

Jon Dalton

May 7, 2009, 10:25 PM

Correct

adam

May 8, 2009, 1:47 AM

No way. The Raven (or was it just "Raven"?) was absolutely the best small music venue in Hamilton, it's not even close. I don't know about the comparative sound quality for the musicians, of course, but that's not all that important when you're talking about "best."

When was this? Never heard of the Raven..

rousseau

May 8, 2009, 3:11 AM

You know how you know you're old? When someone hasn't heard of something in your past which you consider to be part of your recent past. Sheesh.

I think Raven opened in 1999, and I know it closed around June of 2002. It was at the corner of John and Augusta, kitty-corner from the Cat'n Fiddle. It was a narrow room that was usually crowded and always charming, and the acts that came through ran the gamut of the indy genre from the era. Whoever set that place up got everything exactly perfect in terms of the decor and the atmosphere.

I saw a number of interesting acts there. I also saw the best show I've ever been to--Damo Suzuki with a backup band from Boston, I think it was. That was a great evening. It closed due to noise complains from neighbours, I think, though I'm not sure. The guy who booked music there moved it over to the Underground, or maybe he opened the Underground (again, not sure), and while the type of bands coming through were more or less the same, I just didn't like that place. Raven was a terrific combination of an early-evening neighbourhood pub and late-evening rawk stage, but the atmosphere at the Underground was (is?) grim.

Around that time I also began to lose patience with the steady stream of snotty-nosed screamers with guitars or turntables anyway, so my serendipitous discovery of the Winking Judge put paid to most of my live music listening in Hamilton.

oldcoote

May 8, 2009, 3:01 PM

Just some minor renovations I think. They moved their entrance to the other door.

I'm going for lunch today, so I'll scout it out. :cool:

August 8 is alive and well. It was packed yesterday at lunch. Need to work on the service a bit though.

Cambridgite

May 9, 2009, 2:11 AM

emge

May 9, 2009, 3:03 AM

Any type of food you're fans of in particular?

FairHamilton

May 9, 2009, 11:59 AM

Thai Memory - Reportedly closed for the past week. The rumour mill is not saying good things..........

After being closed with no notice in the door, Thai Memory is seemingly open again. Strange.

highwater

May 9, 2009, 2:13 PM

Hi guys. I will soon be going to Hamilton to pick up my brother from McMaster on Sunday and we'll be heading out to lunch. What restaurants would be good for an 18 and 22 year old males to eat at in the downtown, Dundas, or Westdale areas? Preferably something not rediculously expensive. Thanks. :)

In Westdale, you can't go wrong with the Bean Bar. There's also Montfort's which is a small, local chain serving simple but delicious Middle Eastern fair. If pub grub is more your speed, there's the Snooty Fox. In Dundas, there's the Thirsty Cactus and Collins, both nice pubs in heritage buildings on the main drag.

hmagazine

May 9, 2009, 3:45 PM

When was this? Never heard of the Raven..

One of the guys behind Raven is behind the transformation that is taking place at Copper's Corner Bar at James North and Murray. Along with Lou Molinaro (promoter) and Glen Faulman (The Hamilton Kid) they are going to make this a great destination for live music. The room has a nice feel to it and from what I've been told has been some kind of tavern/hotel for most of its existence. Look for a grand opening in June - but they are open for business while fixing the place up - so stop in there and have a beer with the regulars in the meantime.

adam

May 10, 2009, 6:03 PM

Excellent! A live music venue will help round out James North quite nicely. I remember exploring James North past Barton last summer and not seeing too much, but definitely great potential there.

Cambridgite

May 10, 2009, 7:54 PM

Thanks for the advice guys. I went to the Thirsty Cactus in Dundas. I had 2 pounds of wings at half price! I also had gator strips, which were very tasty. :)

bornagainbiking

May 24, 2009, 12:11 AM

Mandarin is toast. King's Buffet way better service and food is not as bland.
And a touch cheaper :cheers:

matt602

May 24, 2009, 2:10 AM

I heard some rave reviews about King's.

FairHamilton

Jun 2, 2009, 3:20 PM

Just heard this morning, that Thai Memory is For Sale.

In this market I'm guessing it's not long for this world..... :(

highwater

Jun 2, 2009, 3:43 PM

Hope you're wrong about that. It would be a big loss for that stretch of King William in particular, and a loss for Hamilton dining in general.

realcity

Jun 2, 2009, 4:32 PM

It's time to close KW from vehicles from James to Hughson and turn it into another Hess. It barely has traffic now then maybe something will get built on the south side parking lot. A huge patio would be good to start with

Jon Dalton

Jun 2, 2009, 5:13 PM

It is truly the darkest hour for that block of King William. In the last year we've lost 2 buildings and 3 businesses leaving only Skydragon, Reardon's and the convenience store. The apartments above Reardons are still occupied but I heard the 3rd floor is being condemned as unsafe. With PJC gone I don't expect anything to fill the back of Right House for quite a while. This place has been my home away from home for the last 3 years and it's very sad to see the state it's in now.

I shouldn't post something entirely negative, and I do have hope that when the Lister Block is done and the James North revival spreads further south, developers with more money to throw around will take interest.

realcity

Jun 2, 2009, 8:14 PM

Lister Block won't do anything. City workers that bounce back out to the suburbs at 4:30. No retail space, cept for one Tim Hortons kiosk, giving the City workers no reason to venture outside.

FairHamilton

Jun 2, 2009, 8:28 PM

Lister Block won't do anything. City workers that bounce back out to the suburbs at 4:30. No retail space, cept for one Tim Hortons kiosk, giving the City workers no reason to venture outside.

But, at least the employees will have to leave the building to get to and from their cars......

Completing the Lister might help Reardon's lunch-time deli business (my favourite is a turkey club with cranberry). Paul has complained to me that his lunch business is down, and he's out of ideas to market/promote it any further.

If they go ahead with the formerly proposed (haven't heard mention of them in a while) "retirement condos" next to the Lister, I think that will be a big step backwards.

Personlly, I get the uneasy feeling "retirement condos" will turn out to be some sort of long term care facility.......

oldcoote

Jun 4, 2009, 2:52 PM

But, at least the employees will have to leave the building to get to and from their cars......

Completing the Lister might help Reardon's lunch-time deli business (my favourite is a turkey club with cranberry). Paul has complained to me that his lunch business is down, and he's out of ideas to market/promote it any further.

If they go ahead with the formerly proposed (haven't heard mention of them in a while) "retirement condos" next to the Lister, I think that will be a big step backwards.

Personlly, I get the uneasy feeling "retirement condos" will turn out to be some sort of long term care facility.......

Cue more seniors on scooters tearing about.

Re: Reardons. I think Deco Deli is eating into their business.

SteelTown

Jun 11, 2009, 9:09 PM

Tim Hortons to co-brand six stores in Ontario with Cold Stone Creamery

By THE CANADIAN PRESS – 9 minutes ago
http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5i5ClIGrIOIGm_V5z9bPspmIKNRRQ

OAKVILLE, Ont. — Tim Hortons Inc. (TSX:THI) said Thursday that it will co-brand six restaurants in Ontario with Cold Stone Creamery after launching the concept in the United States earlier this year.

The doughnut shop said the six locations, which are expected to be open by the end of the month, will be in Mississauga, Ont., Hamilton, Toronto, Oakville, Ont., and Pickering, Ont.

The companies announced a co-branding test in March involving up to 50 locations in the United States for each chain following a successful test in two Tim Hortons locations in Rhode Island.

Currently, a total of 38 restaurants have been fully rebranded to the new combined Cold Stone Creamery and Tim Hortons concept.

"Our customers have responded enthusiastically to our co-branded test locations in the U.S. and the signature Cold Stone product offerings available at our restaurants," said Roland Walton, Tim Hortons' chief operations officer for Canada.

"We will test the co-branded platform in six Canadian restaurants to determine the potential in Canada and our ability to maintain the same high standard of quality and service our customers expect."

Tim Hortons has 2,930 locations in Canada and 527 in the United States, while Cold Stone Creamery has more than 1,450 locations in 12 countries.

SteelTown

Jun 11, 2009, 9:09 PM

Friggin awesome!!

matt602

Jun 12, 2009, 1:02 AM

What exactly is "Cold Stone Creamery"?

hammergirl

Jun 12, 2009, 1:34 AM

What exactly is "Cold Stone Creamery"?

http://www.coldstonecreamery.com/index.html

It's ice cream with stuff - fruit, nuts, cake, cookies, candy etc, that you can have mixed into it.

Anyone have any idea where the Hamilton location will be? Any Tim's under renovation right now?

matt602

Jun 12, 2009, 1:36 AM

The one at Main and Wentworth is being rebuilt but it's supposed to be one of those "drive-thru only" locations. So, I guess it probably won't be that one.

SteelTown

Jun 12, 2009, 1:38 AM

It'll be like those Wendy's/Tim Hortons setup expect Cold Stone Creamery/Tim Hortons. So it'll likely be a new building.

hammergirl

Jun 12, 2009, 1:42 AM

It'll be like those Wendy's/Tim Hortons setup expect Cold Stone Creamery/Tim Hortons. So it'll likely be a new building.

I agree, but the article says the new stores should be open by the end of the month so wouldn't we see something by now?

They wouldn't convert one of the existing Wendy's/Tim Hortons combos would they? :sly:

FairHamilton

Jun 12, 2009, 2:29 AM

The one at Main and Wentworth is being rebuilt but it's supposed to be one of those "drive-thru only" locations. So, I guess it probably won't be that one.

Ward 3 is a "drive-thru ward", so unless Cold Stone can be drive-thru it isn't going to be anywhere in Ward 3.

Jon Dalton

Jun 12, 2009, 2:54 AM

So does this mean they will sell food that doesn't taste like horse shit?

emge

Jun 12, 2009, 12:29 PM

So does this mean they will sell food that doesn't taste like horse shit?

Dang, I knew those Tim Hortons "mix-ins" couldn't be trusted...;)

As for location...
My guess is this store is destined for suburban boxland instead of anywhere close to the lower city?

hammergirl

Jun 12, 2009, 8:22 PM

Dang, I knew those Tim Hortons "mix-ins" couldn't be trusted...;)

As for location...
My guess is this store is destined for suburban boxland instead of anywhere close to the lower city?

Centre Mall?

Heritage Green at the top of the RHVP already has a Tim Hortons.

markbarbera

Jun 12, 2009, 9:22 PM

Centre Mall?

Heritage Green at the top of the RHVP already has a Tim Hortons.

There is a brand new Tim Horton's being built at this site, so it would make sense that this may be the the one. It does have a sizeable patio planned for it too. Only I don't know if it would be ready within a month's time.

hammergirl

Jun 17, 2009, 2:20 AM

There is a brand new Tim Horton's being built at this site, so it would make sense that this may be the the one. It does have a sizeable patio planned for it too. Only I don't know if it would be ready within a month's time.

A friend of mine from Stoney Creek saw a Cold Stone sign at the Tim's on Queenston near Dewitt.

Jon Dalton

Jun 17, 2009, 4:26 AM

Tims is not 'cuisine' by any stretch of the imagination, so let's get this thread back on track.

THE SHIP, an all original seafood restaurant, is opening on Augusta St. towards the end of the month. Check them out, right beside the Winking Judge. They are equipped with Grand River Brewing taps and will have English style fish and chips for takeout all day as well as a refined dinner menu. Good times are coming.

SteelTown

Jun 22, 2009, 3:38 AM

Lone Star Texas Grill is taking over the closed Outback Steakhouse at Meadowlands.

SteelTown

Jun 27, 2009, 7:40 PM

Anyone know any good Mexican or Tex-Mex place in Hamilton? I love spicy food. I know there's one at James St.

matt602

Jun 27, 2009, 10:01 PM

Poco Loco on Ottawa, a bit south of Cannon.

rousseau

Jun 29, 2009, 2:31 PM

Poco Loco on Ottawa, a bit south of Cannon.
Really, is this place good? Is it run by Mexicans? How would you rate it in comparison to MEXiCAN (spelling/capitalization?) on James?

I've driven by Poco Loco, but never at lunch or dinner time, so we haven't stopped. We'll have to make a point of it next time we buy fabric on Ottawa Street.

SteelTown

Jun 29, 2009, 2:56 PM

A friend of mine from Stoney Creek saw a Cold Stone sign at the Tim's on Queenston near Dewitt.

It's indeed in Stoney Creek and it's not the Wendy's/Tim Hortons format. Just extra counter space for Cold Stone.

matt602

Jun 29, 2009, 8:43 PM

Really, is this place good? Is it run by Mexicans? How would you rate it in comparison to MEXiCAN (spelling/capitalization?) on James?

I've driven by Poco Loco, but never at lunch or dinner time, so we haven't stopped. We'll have to make a point of it next time we buy fabric on Ottawa Street.

I read a great review for it in the View mag and then went myself once for lunch. I don't know about the authenticity of the employees but they were friendly, the food was good, the price was fair and the servings were good. I had chili (I guess thats not very adventurous) but there lots of other offerings too.

markbarbera

Jun 29, 2009, 9:04 PM

Poco Loco has great quick service burritos for takeaway or eat-in at their counter. For a sit-down full service Mexican meal, I still enjoy the old standby Papagayo on King by Hess.

FairHamilton

Jul 6, 2009, 3:18 AM

Finally made it to Poco Loco for a lunch. Definitely fast food style, and the food (Quesedilla) was very good, with a hot sauce that was hot enough to be ordered on the side.

My only complaint was that only a fork (plastic), and no knife, was provided as it's expected you'll eat the quesedilla like a slice of pizza. A messy slice of pizza. The fork was apparently to scoop up the fillings that fall out....

Would I go back? Yes. Though next time I'm taking my camping cutlery.

Not really comparable to Mex-I-Can, as Mex-I-Can has a more extensive menu and is a more a sit down place that has a liqour license. Both are very good in their own ways.

mic67

Aug 4, 2009, 2:45 PM

http://www.thespec.com/videogallery/608943

Raw foods kitchen opens in Hamilton's north end

6 min. flash vidd

Jon Dalton

Aug 4, 2009, 11:36 PM

I forgot to post it here, the Ship is now open.

http://www.theship.ca/menu.jpg

It's as good as I said it would be, better actually. They will also do takeout, you can call in your order. Tuesday nights all you can eat fish and chips for $10, friday nights $3.50 beers. Also different specials every day of the week. www.theship.ca

holymoly

Aug 6, 2009, 6:23 PM

The Ship looks great! Thanks for the menu.

SteelTown

Aug 6, 2009, 6:32 PM

You know when you travel around you begin to realize the food prices in Hamilton is pretty affordable. Try finding a burger with fries or salad in Toronto or Ottawa for ten bucks. I got a personal pizza in Ottawa for $18.00, which is like a plate size and it just had cheese.

flar

Aug 6, 2009, 6:55 PM

Hamilton is super cheap, I miss places like Duarte's where you could get a sandwich for $2 even.

bornagainbiking

Aug 6, 2009, 7:26 PM

$2.50 for mixed sub on panini. fair size. On Murray between Mary and Catharine one block from Barton, best lunch in town.

Jon Dalton

Aug 6, 2009, 7:38 PM

The Ship gets 3 out of 3 stars from View Magazine (I know, it's View magazine) but in this case the writer is unbiased.

LikeHamilton

Aug 20, 2009, 8:41 PM

I see that the “three 16” lounge and the other little bars/bistros along this stretch of King Street East have closed.

emge

Aug 20, 2009, 9:42 PM

Three16 closed a while back... I was talking to the owner a bit about that. A shame though.

I was talking to one guy who worked at the Spoons cafe - their sign says temporarily closed, but it's definitely permanent. Their hours weren't great (closed on weekends, not open early in the mornings) and its tough to compete with Tim's and the FRWY which is staffed by volunteers. The one time I did have their coffee it was terrible, though... I hope that wasn't an ongoing problem.

FRWY goes back in the fall to regular hours (10 a.m. onwards) instead of 7 a.m. onwards due to lack of volunteers, which you can't blame them for, but that means I can't get my morning coffee there anymore, which is too bad because all their stuff is fair-trade and organic, including tea, which is hard to find.

The Freedom Fighter coffee is unbelievably good - and I was liking their $1.99 fair-trade coffee and made-from-scratch muffin deal they've had all summer. (The wild blueberry bran ones, especially).

They've also started buying a couple products from Sky Dragon's roastery in addition to the Guelph one (Planet Bean) that they were using - not sure if they'll be switching over, but nice to see a bit of local crossover there!

SteelTown

Sep 4, 2009, 5:04 PM

Looks like A&W is about to explode in growth in Hamilton over the next 5 years, I'm betting one at Centre Mall.

http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/Stock%20News/2513035/

"The agreement was awarded to existing franchisees Upinder Dhanoa and Sandy Gill and calls for the development 12 new A&W restaurants in the Hamilton, Burlington and Milton region to occur over the next 5 years"

I believe there's suppose to be an A&W at James and Barton, currently a vacant lot.

matt602

Sep 4, 2009, 6:50 PM

James and Barton would be very cool especially with a nice dining area and possibly some residential spaces above (though I understand this would be a large departure from standard format for that type of restaurant)

realcity

Sep 4, 2009, 7:38 PM

I see that the “three 16” lounge and the other little bars/bistros along this stretch of King Street East have closed.

This thread is titled "Hamilton Cuisine". Which now basically consists of pizza & wings, subs & gyros and A&W.

"Get a free tattoo with every Papa Burger & Poutine at any one of Hamilton's new 36 A&W locations. Note: sleeves may cost more. Old boyfriend/girlfriend name coverups ink extra. And o yea and we're hiring drive-thru staff."

Jon Dalton

Sep 22, 2009, 11:44 PM

drpgq

Sep 23, 2009, 2:31 AM

I tried the new Ethiopian restaurant on James South at Forest yesterday. Decent.

emge

Sep 23, 2009, 3:17 AM

I passed that Ethiopian restaurant the other day and was wondering if it was any good - thanks for posting.

thistleclub

Sep 23, 2009, 7:12 PM

Anyone notice the new sushi place on James across from Jackson Square? I think it's in the space that was the rock store for the past year or so (not rock music memorabilia - I mean they sold rocks).

I'm sure it's average at best, but I'm excited to see something average pop up on that blighted stretch of James. Maybe it's the first signs of James North revival spreading into the core.

There was a deli in the unit north of GEM CAPITAL for about three months. Neighbours include the "broken gold" trade station for downtown, the fraudulent pharmacy and a fake nail place, so revival is welcome.

Also noticed the new Cajun restaurant further up James during last art crawl. There's some food news that isn't chain and isn't junk.

Used to operate in the Bite Beach Bar space during the early 90s. Now bringing some of that vintage Hess Village vibe to James North.

RIP O Marinheiro.

highwater

Sep 23, 2009, 7:43 PM

Anyone checking out Localicious?

markbarbera

Sep 23, 2009, 9:14 PM

I tried the new Ethiopian restaurant on James South at Forest yesterday. Decent.

Glad to hear there's an Ethiopian restaurant in town now. I'll have to check it out soon.

Anyone checking out Localicious?

I'm heading to Incognito this evening and will try one of their localicious features (although the featured dishes don't seem to be 100% local - unless you can get chipotle peppers or basmati rice locally now!)

FairHamilton

Sep 24, 2009, 2:43 AM

We've been having Localicious at our home for quite some time now. Why do this at this time of year when a trip to the Farmers Market (Ottawa or Downtown) yields all the local foods you can buy.

Why not have Localicious in the winter, then restaurants have to actually stop and think, get creative and the "buy local" message actually means something?

My 2 cents.

paleale2

Sep 24, 2009, 1:34 PM

Hmmmm....

Have you tried to buy Ontario produce, fruits etc in January? They would be a little wilted methinks

emge

Sep 24, 2009, 3:23 PM

I'd love to see some real "winter" local. Icewine (i can picture desserts garnished with still-frozen icewine grapes - they're incredible! I used to work picking icewine grapes in Niagara when i was a teenager), root vegetables from the cellar, apples, even canned-on-the-restaurant-premises summer fruit, pickles, beets, etc.

FairHamilton

Sep 24, 2009, 4:36 PM

Hmmmm....

Have you tried to buy Ontario produce, fruits etc in January? They would be a little wilted methinks

What emge said. Yes, I have tried and do purchase Ontario produce, fruits, etc. in January, and February and even March.

In the winter, I buy lots of Ontario produce, i.e. Apples, Pears, Carrots, Potatoes, Greenhouse Tomatoes, select squashes, etc. In fact, Fletcher Farms at the Ottawa Street Market are there selling fruit right through the entire winter. And I haven't even touched on jams, honey, perserves, etc.

Actually, I find spring is tougher to find local stuff because the previous year harvest is sold or too old, and the next years hasn't grown yet.

My point was that having a "local" food event when local foods are prevalent is somewhat senseless. Chefs should be challenged, as that is when the most unique, most creative, and sometimes the best meals are created and served.

Jon Dalton

Sep 24, 2009, 4:58 PM

Yeah, I've been on a cooking binge lately what with the tomato harvest in my backyard and high season at the market. Localicious at my house tomorrow night features beef stew and pumpkin pie, all from scratch with local ingredients. Not to worry though, independent local establishments will continue to get a disproportionately high share of my income year round.

highwater

Sep 24, 2009, 5:07 PM

Went to Boo's Bistro last night. Great service, fantastic food. Highly recommended

I get what you're saying FH, but this event is also just about getting people downtown, and of course this is the time of year when the general public is most focused on 'eating locally', and the weather is still nice enough to bring people out.

emge

Sep 24, 2009, 5:17 PM

why not a winter and a summer event? one to enjoy seasonal items at their peak, another to showcase the year-round flavours available.

markbarbera

Sep 24, 2009, 5:23 PM

Had localicious at Incognito and really enjoyed the meal. Starter was a goat cheese and peach salad with balsamic dressing - absolutely delicious (I've had some fabulous peaches this season), my main was pork with chipotle sauce, sweet potatos and mix seasonals (brocolli cauliflower carrots beans). Sweet potato was a perfect counterpoint to the spicy pork, and veggies were prepared to perfect consistency (too many Hamilton restos still overcook veggies). Dessert was amazing, but how could you go wrong with blueberry shortcake?

I'd definitely recommend this place for Localicious (Incognito is already my favourite downtown eatery). Boo's is great too.

FairHamilton

Sep 24, 2009, 5:49 PM

I get what you're saying FH, but this event is also just about getting people downtown, and of course this is the time of year when the general public is most focused on 'eating locally', and the weather is still nice enough to bring people out.

As you know, I'm all for getting people out downtown, but they could do a different event at this time of year to get people out. And another in January (a really slow month), or February a short month where rent is the same, but there are a few days less for selling.

drpgq

Oct 7, 2009, 7:41 PM

There's a building permit for that restaurant at King William and Hughson (former German and Czech place) to produce something called Hotpot, occupancy 60.

markbarbera

Oct 7, 2009, 7:49 PM

Did that German/Czech place ever open? It seemed like a sign went up but I never noticed it actually in operation.

Hopefully this new place will work. From what I understand the rent for this spot is a little on the high side to make a restaurant viable. Maybe a stretch without a tenant has led the building owner to adjust to a more reasonable rate.

drpgq

Oct 7, 2009, 7:52 PM

Actually I was wondering that myself. I'm gone for long periods from Hamilton for work and figured it must have opened and closed while I was away, but maybe it never did open.

matt602

Oct 8, 2009, 5:58 AM

That property seems to be cursed as far as I've seen... or even that entire stretch of King William. Properties change hands like the weather, nothing ever seems to really flourish. No clue why, it's a beautiful streetscape.

emge

Oct 8, 2009, 1:41 PM

Because King William isn't visible if you don't already know it's there or have to go there for something. When I moved here it was probably a good six months before I found the street, and that was for some event held at the SkyDragon. I constantly meet people who say "What street? What are you talking about?" - even if they live nearby... so anyplace near there has to either appeal to people in the immediate area, or have an attractional/event basis for its business.

FairHamilton

Oct 8, 2009, 3:18 PM

FairHamilton

Oct 8, 2009, 3:19 PM

Last night I noticed the old Spoons location in the IV had a notice in the window about a Cafe coming soon.

emge

Oct 8, 2009, 7:48 PM

I met the owner the other day, who apparently owns other businesses in the city (but don't quote me on that).

The new cafe will be called Barbarossa's and will specialize in gluten-free food - not sure if it's going to be of a particular ethnicity or not.

FairHamilton

Oct 22, 2009, 12:36 AM

A new Persian restaurant, Asil Taste, opened today in the Gibson stretch of King East (just west of Holton). It just kinda sprung up without fanfare, or much notice from anyone. Small with 2 tables, so they will be relying on the take-out trade.

I was in to pick-up dinner tonight (chicken, lamb, kebab), and the food was really great, and plentiful (my lunch tomorrow is all looked after). It's family owned with Mom cooking the food, so you know it's good home type cooking, Persian style.

They are having a Grand Opening - buy one meal, get the second at half price - promotion, so if you are in the area.

Anyone who knows this stretch of King Street knows it's a "Dead Zone", so I hope they make it. Based on tonight's meal, I'm giving it my stamp of approval.

bluevue

Oct 23, 2009, 10:34 AM

Hi all. Just to let you know there is a new restaurant in Westdale at King and Sterling. It is called Koosh Bistro. I went last night and it was excellent. Casual Fine Dining with Fresh Daily Homemade Pasta. The wine list is great! They are open Lunch and for Sunday Brunch, as well they will have live Jazz starting shortly. I was impressed with the Quality. The prices were excellent as well. Long overdue in this area....should be excellent competition to 1010 Bistro.

SteelTown

Oct 23, 2009, 1:35 PM

Welcome to the forum!

Koosh Bistro sounds good! Fresh pasta is always good.

highwater

Oct 23, 2009, 1:43 PM

They were working on that place forever. Glad to hear it's finally open. Will have it check it out.

bluevue

Oct 24, 2009, 11:16 AM

The inside shows why they took so long. Beautiful place...tonne of work put into it.

palace1

Oct 26, 2009, 5:05 PM

The signs at Barbarossa's say it will be Afro-Brazilian / Moroccan
(also 'due to unforeseen circumstances' they will not be opening until December)

sofasurfer

Oct 27, 2009, 2:21 PM

A new Persian restaurant, Asil Taste, opened today in the Gibson stretch of King East (just west of Holton). It just kinda sprung up without fanfare, or much notice from anyone. Small with 2 tables, so they will be relying on the take-out trade.

Thanks for the heads-up - I haven't had Persian food since leaving the UK (we had a great place about a mile from our old place).

Looks like it's perfectly located for us to pick up on the way home from work. Which gives me an idea for tonight.. :)

bluevue

Oct 29, 2009, 11:57 PM

went to Koosh Bistro again! Koosh Pasta....I'm stuffed.

sofasurfer

Oct 30, 2009, 4:04 PM

It's family owned with Mom cooking the food, so you know it's good home type cooking, Persian style.

Yup. Definitely. Haven't eaten Persian since moving from London, including home cooking via a friend of my wife's - and this place is certainly hitting all the right buttons for us.

They are having a Grand Opening - buy one meal, get the second at half price - promotion, so if you are in the area.

This was only for the first week, apparently (and so wasn't on when we visited) - but no matter, it's still damn good value. We'll definitely be back!

sofasurfer

Oct 30, 2009, 4:10 PM

bluevue - no offence intended, but your posts really smack of a not-too-subtle marketing hit... apologies if I'm wrong, but I don't see you posting or commenting on anything else around here, and even though I'm far from a regular around here, I do at least try to check in on a few other topics, and generally get to know others.

but hey, I've been on fora for way too long (I go back to telnet chat days!), and, shall we say, have had enough hands-on exeperience from many many angles to get a whiff of such tactics a mile off... I'm just a bit sensitive to this kind of thing. it'd be great if you stick around, though, and join in the chats elsewhere... just a thought, eh?

xx

Blurr

Oct 30, 2009, 6:58 PM

highwater

Oct 30, 2009, 7:10 PM

You're not the only one who sensed that bluevue has a personal stake in Koosh. Since bluevue is obviously connected to the restaurant, I'll give my review. Hopefully s/he is checking in to see if there are any responses.

I went to Koosh with several friends last Saturday. We had a very nice time and will definitely go back, but there were a few kinks that need to be worked out. I will provide my constructive criticism in the hopes that Bluevue will take them take them to heart and work to improve the dining experience there.

I would give the decor and atmosphere a 9.5. Simple, sophisticated, and comfortable. I still don't see what could possibly have taken them so long as it is clean and simple. The woodworking is a little amateurish, but my dh is a designer/builder of fine furniture so we have impossibly high standards. The average diner will be very satisfied I'm sure.

When we arrived, there were several couples in the 40+ age range (as are we). In spite of this, loud rock music was playing that made it very difficult to converse. They were very amenable when we asked them to change the music, and quiet jazz was soon playing, but still, you have to question the savvy of a restaurateur who looks around at a room full of salt and pepper-haired diners and says to him/herself "I know, let's blast some rock!". A little more sense and sensitivity in the music department will go a long way to improving the overall dining experience.

Next up, a couple of the items we ordered were not available, but we were not told this till our order had been submitted to the kitchen, and the server had to return and ask us to make other selections. This is a tiny restaurant. Surely it couldn't be that difficult for the kitchen to communicate with the wait staff so they can inform diners what isn't available right off the bat. Also, there were no specials. Hopefully that will change with time.

The plates were too big for the small tables which made things quite awkward. These are the sorts of details which hopefully will be improved with time and experience, but as with the music, a little more savvy needs to be applied here.

Generally the food was quite good. My dh's chicken was a little dry, and my filet mignon could have been a little more flavourful, but overall I would give the food an 8.

The servers were great, if a little clumsy. I would put the clumsiness down to a combination of inexperience and the awkwardness created by the too-large plates. Again, hopefully this will improve.

As I said, we had a nice time, and will be back, but they'll need a little more polish if they want to give 1010 a run for their money. I wish them all the best, which is why I've posted this critique. All my criticisms are things that can easily be improved with a little more experience and attention to detail. Hopefully bluevue is listening.

sofasurfer

Oct 30, 2009, 7:21 PM

You're not the only one who sensed that bluevue has a personal stake in Koosh. Since bluevue is obviously connected to the restaurant

TOS breach, though, right?

FWIW, I think it's fine if you join a forum, take part a little, and then respectfully and gently plug something you're involved with.

The OP seems to completely miss this, and 3 posts in is basically giving an object lesson in e-marketing FAIL 101.

(Amongst other things, I used to jointly run a final year UG course in e-commerce and m-commerce - this is the kind of stuff that not even a first year at our place would have screwed up on)

FFS bluevue, at least be part of a community and/or have the decency to declare your interest from the outset. you'd gain a lot more potential respect that way. instead, I'm rapidly losing interest - regardless of reviews, how nice your decor is, etc (FWIW, I drive past every day - and it *does* look good from the outside - but please don't patronise people in this way. makes me very concerned as to how you'd take care of the rest of your operations.. or, indeed, anyone else who'd try this on)

</rantette over>

Jon Dalton

Oct 30, 2009, 7:37 PM

Here's another marking hit: The Ship on Augusta is newly renovated with a more pub-like interior, new Cameron's and Robert Simpson taps, and.........

wait for it....................

$10 PITCHERS!!!!!!!!

ALL THE TIME!!!!!

highwater

Oct 30, 2009, 7:50 PM

makes me very concerned as to how you'd take care of the rest of your operations..

Yes. Lack of savvy all around. Hope they learn from this. We need more establishments like this in this town.

drpgq

Oct 30, 2009, 7:55 PM

Is the Ship open for lunch?

sofasurfer

Oct 30, 2009, 9:17 PM

Hope they learn from this. We need more establishments like this in this town.

Don't get me wrong - from what I've seen of the storefront, it looks great, and more nice eateries in Westdale (and the city in general) is a Very Good Thing Indeed!

I just have serious issues with the way online communities are used as a marketing tool (in case you couldn't tell ;) - but it's only cos I care!!)

...as it is, fresh pasta is a thing of beauty when done right. My wife (bless 'er) got me a pasta-making masterclass at Ramsey's Claridges kitchen a couple of years ago, and it's bloody hard work but can yield incredible results.
(my chocolate pasta poached pear giant ravioli very rarely get made, but by crikey they're good. a LOT of mess and work, mind you!)