Openings, changes and closures in the Hamilton restaurant scene

Diane Galambos - Contributing Columnist

from on 2021-03-09 15:18 (#5F567)

Part of an occasional series keeping you updated on the Hamilton/Burlington dining scene. (These updates are information only - no dining took place.)

PF NaRoma Cucina

They say you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone." So it has been with the original Pane Fresco (PF) restaurant in Burlington where I used to have breakfast weekly and countless business/friend lunches. It closed in March 2020 and never reopened. In July came the announcement that Mario Spina (of NaRoma fame and a once upon a time chef at PF) was teaming up with PF owner Marco Carnicelli for a reimagined eatery. This collaboration boded well, but the wait was excruciatingly long. PF NaRoma Cucina is finally open, but only for takeout at present. The expanded menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta and (round and square) pizzas. The menu has tapped into fan favourites and may expand. New is the addition of dinner options, such as Tuscan Style Organic Roast Chicken and Veal Parmesan. Opening at 11 a.m., there will be no more PF breakfast in my future, but the new menu will tantalize fans until 8 p.m. every day but Monday.

Matty's Hot Chicken (and Undefined)

Exciting things keep happening on King William Street and this time the focus is on chicken and the Cipollo family. In a longer story I will share soon, Mike Cipollo used his winnings from a cooking event to launch Matty's - named for his son who, having helped in his father's kitchens is headed soon to formal chef training. Refined casual dining will be the brand of Undefined which will not open until the warmer patio season arrives. Meanwhile, it serves as the kitchen for the already popular Matty's Hot Chicken (pickup or delivery). Don't be put off by the word hot" - you can specify your heat preference ranging from no heat, just a touch, to three more levels of hot. All the chicken options are made to order using 24-hour buttermilk marinated, boneless, dark meat (white meat is available). The sandwiches (Sandos) are made with brioche buns, and sides include a potato salad based on a family recipe. If all that is not enough to tempt you, add some of their doughnuts called Kreamy Krisps. Made fresh daily, they are snapped up quickly. Not hard to believe when some are pictured with bacon and others are called The Strawberry Homer." Doh!" You know you want all of this.

Nannaa Foods

Nannaa Foods has been launched by Nannaa Eatery - premium Persian Meal Kits and more. If you love their food (and what's not to love), visit their new e-commerce site to order meal kits that you prepare, or heat and serve meals. Pickup/delivery is available at their Westdale location or Rayhoon in Burlington. Meal Kits come with all ingredients, the recipe and access to a professional and easy-to-follow instructional video. The Pantry Boosters are also exciting. You can purchase many of the wonderful ingredients they use - cardamom tea leaves, barberries and sumac to mention only a few - and who doesn't want some Nannaa spice mix.

The Fritter Shop

The Fritter Shop has roots as a family business in the London/St. Thomas area. Chef Matthew Agbetiafa has opened its fifth location in Hamilton's Farmers' Market. People are raving about these Dutch fritters available in many flavours that include apple, lemon, blueberry, cherry, and brownie. As noted on Instagram, Hamilton you've been absolutely incredible welcoming us to your beautiful city, unfortunately today were sold out again. We can't keep these on the shelves."

Yimee's

Yimee's is a family-owned business focusing on pizzas, shawarma, falafel, wings - and garlic. Their branded garlic sauce can be ordered as a side/dip, enjoyed in the form of the Garlic Supreme Pizza, or purchased as a home staple by the bottle. The shawarma and falafels can be ordered on a bun, with salad or rice/fries.

Vegan

Vegan options in Hamilton continue to proliferate. Social media is abuzz about the reopening of the cafe space at The Staircase (delivery/pickup). The menu (as stated on their website) was created by the minds behind Democracy, Rise Above Pizza & Wings, and The Hearty Hooligan." Eclectic, choices include burgers, nachos, quesadilla, pogos - and even spaghetti. Bring Me Some, in the lower level of the Hamilton Farmers' Market offers plant-based fast food. Their menu includes burgers, salads, and chickun" - made from what they call a secret recipe that does not use seitan (a wheat gluten protein alternative). Chickun and Waffles seem popular. They have many sauces and when honey is called for they use their brand of honey alternative. Follow their Instagram account for specials (e.g. shrimp) and take advantage of their bundles" - package deals. Visit in person or order for curbside pickup or delivery.

Closed. Conquistador; The Heather; Kakau Chocolate Company; Pokeh - Hamilton Farmers' Market location closed, but Concession location still open.

Diane Galambos is a food writer who shares stories and recipes at her blog kitchenbliss.ca. Follow her on Instagram https://instagram.com/kitchenblissca

Bring Me Some

Hamilton Farmer's Market, 35 York Blvd., Hamilton

905-512-4313

bringmesome.ca/

instagram.com/bringmesomevegan/

Matty's Hot Chicken (and Donuts)

35 King William St., Hamilton

905-393-8343

eatmattyschicken.com

instagram.com/eatmattyschicken

instagram.com/eatmattysdonuts

Nannaa Eatery and Foods