Sure, people go to Hamilton for the steel, but what really makes this city sizzle is the barbecue: smoky brisket with a perfect bark, fall-off-the-bone ribs glazed in sticky sauce, or pulled pork sandwiches that somehow taste even better on a patio overlooking the bay. That’s not to say you have to resign yourself to meat sweats for a straight week. This guide has all of that and more, organized by neighborhood.
And remember: always say ‘Hammer,’ never ‘Hamilton,’ unless you want to immediately be recognized as a tourist.
Rony’s
$ | (905) 560-7669 | WEBSITE
This consistently popular Hamilton spot has been a local favorite for years—chicken enthusiasts from across the region make regular pilgrimages here. And as the reputation suggests, this is where you should eat some chicken for lunch or dinner. Order the popular chicken plate, which features tender, juicy chicken brined for days and seasoned to perfection, served with golden, crispy fries.
If you’re looking to experience the full flavor spectrum, get the chicken with the spicy scotch bonnet sauce that adds a fiery taste and heat level. Don’t skip the house-made Passion Fruit frozen yogurt for dessert—it’s so good you might want to keep it all to yourself.
BBQ Bandits
$$ | (289) 389-6665 | WEBSITE
If you’re prioritizing one special barbecue meal in Hamilton, look no further than BBQ Bandits. Most days, they do an under-$20 takeout menu of authentic barbecue dishes like flavorful ribs, smoked wings, and incredible brisket poutine with crispy fries. It’s tough to score a parking spot since the place is so popular, but they’re open for takeout every day, and we’ve had luck calling in our order right when they open.
You’ll probably be picking up from the counter, where you can watch the staff box up generous portions of tender brisket that melts in the mouth. We also really appreciate the energy around the space: there’s a super cool owner and very welcoming staff with great vibes. BBQ Bandits is a nice break from nice but mildly stuffy sit-down barbecue places all over Hamilton.
BAB Korean Food & BBQ
$ | (905) 521-8886 | WEBSITE
For a while, Hamilton’s Korean barbecue scene felt a bit limited, which is why we’re thrilled that BAB Korean Food & BBQ and all their sizzling dishes have arrived. Begin with the tteokbokki or haemul pajeon, then zero in on the spicy pork bibimbap served in a hot stone bowl—and note that many items, including vegetarian options, accommodate various diets. The place is quite cozy with warm lighting and simple wooden tables, and works well for a relaxed lunch or a comfortable weeknight meal.
Chuggy’s
$$ | (905) 662-5348 | WEBSITE
Chuggy’s gets our vote for the best barbecue in Hamilton. This particular spot takes cozy and welcoming and stacks it with great food and friendly service, all served with cold beer. Order at the counter and head to your table where you can enjoy your meal away from the crowds when the place gets packed. Almost everything they do that involves barbecue here is good, like crispy and saucy wings and their popular weekend specials.
Ibn Alsham Shawarma and Grill مشاوي وشاورما ابن الشام
Ibn Alsham Shawarma and Grill is the best Middle Eastern spot in Hamilton. Order the Arabi Shawarma Plate with chicken or any of the grilled dishes, and always save room for extra garlic sauce. Both the shawarma and mixed grill make the most of the fresh ingredients, but there’s also a great classic shawarma wrap if you want to keep things simple.
The atmosphere kind of feels like a cozier family kitchen in the best way possible, with warm lighting and comfortable seating that invites you to stay. There’s also a seemingly never-ending supply of hospitality from the friendly staff.
Big Bone BBQ & Wicked Wings
$ | (905) 627-2663 | WEBSITE
Big Bone BBQ & Wicked Wings in Hamilton is where you’ll find authentic barbecue with standout dishes, like the Tuesday special with pulled pork and smoked wings and the original wings cooked amazingly with great flavor. The dining area is clean and tidy with a welcoming atmosphere, and you’ll be in a comfortable space with rustic decor and warm lighting.
Make sure you don’t skip the traditional poutine, as it features large curds, crispy fries, and amazing gravy, and probably a nice change from all the burgers and fries you’ve been eating.
Premier Bbq House
$ | (905) 664-1002 | WEBSITE
We took one bite of the perfectly grilled chevaps from Premier BBQ House in lower Stoney Creek and said, ‘Wow, that’s a lot of flavor.’ Then we kept eating until the entire platter for two disappeared. We then were left to contemplate why more places don’t prepare their food fresh right in front of you—it provides some great balance to the hearty meat and fresh bread.
Come here for dinner and get that chevap platter (which, just a heads up, is around $35) and some surprisingly good cordon bleu while you chat up the friendly owner at the counter.
Saltlick Smokehouse
$$ | (289) 389-6328 | WEBSITE
Saltlick Smokehouse has been popping up on all the best barbecue lists for Hamilton, but their original location is the real standout. They serve incredible brisket, pork belly nuggets, and more at rustic wooden tables in a lively space filled with the scent of smoked meats. The menu is accommodating to dietary restrictions and the options are extensive—Saltlick is perfect for a celebratory feast, but an equally good casual weeknight dinner.
It’s a meal you’ll remember months later when the winter chill sets in and you’re craving that warm, smoky comfort.
Spring Grill House
$$ | (905) 383-6868 | WEBSITE
Spring Grill House is far more than a barbecue joint. It’s a local gathering place that has some of the best interactive dining in town via the tabletop grills. Try the Korean BBQ classics, which are named after traditional Korean dishes. We like the marinated bulgogi with its sweet-savory glaze or the Honey General Tao Chicken that’s loaded with crispy texture and sticky-sweet sauce. Evenings and weekends are the busiest and always filled with groups from the nearby neighborhoods.
They’re either celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a night out, we can never tell.
Joey Turks Island Grill
$ | (289) 389-5557 | WEBSITE
Joey Turks Island Grill is one of the best spots for authentic Caribbean food in the heart of Hamilton’s Locke Street. You’ll probably see a lot of regulars here grabbing take-out and a fair amount of first-timers discovering the flavors, but everyone gets along and the energy is pretty vibrant. We love the jerk chicken sandwich and coconut rice, but it’s also a good dinner spot for things like the jerk chicken bowl with Mac n cheese combo and those generous, tasty bowls.
