Look no further than these legendary neighborhood eateries
A town’s cuisine is often synonymous with the town itself. You think Kansas City, you think barbeque. Chicago has deep-dish pizza, New York has thin crust. The question has to be asked when you think of local restaurants where do you think.
17 neighborhoods proudly boast their favorites but what is the Hamiltonian flavor? That is precisely the question we asked subscribers on Facebook, and much to no one’s surprise we received dozens of scrumptious responses.
Typically, if you’ve been in business for decades you have to be doing something right. This is why Richard’s has stood as a pillar of Hamilton cuisine for years now. Eastside or west side, their legendary steak sandwiches, and pizzas aren’t far away. For some, stopping in and grabbing a bite take them back in time.
“Richard’s Pizza has been my years-long go-to for pizza and hoagies,” wrote Meg E. Smith. “Each time I walk into their Main St. location, the smell of baking bread and cheese brings back memories of the early 2000s, when I would go with friends to hang out on Friday nights before going to a movie or football game.”
Tucked away just off of Eaton Ave is Gina’s Italian Kitchen and Tavern. Whether you’re taking your family over there after an evening at West Side Little League or going out on Friday night– Gina’s is a local favorite.
“Right when you walk in you immediately feel like family,” said Shelly Campbell about the Italian kitchen and tavern. “Gina and her two sisters Nancy and Maria show so much pride and love in the entire place. The staff is great, food is even better! I’ve never had a bad meal or a bad experience.”
Gina’s is a great spot during the summer because of their remodeled patio, but when it comes to fall nothing goes with football quite like chicken wings.
“Wings on Brookwood– the food is always so hot and fresh when we get an order to go,” wrote Hamiltonian Michelle Allen. “When we eat in, we get the best service and it is always consistent! I do love that they are so involved in the community, and are very proud to be in Hamilton”
She wasn’t alone in her praise, as Wings on Brookwood received more praise than any other eatery on our Facebook page.
“Hands down the best food in Hamilton and surrounding areas,” said Cody Franchini about Hamilton’s most popular wing spot. “Great prices, large portions, ice-cold beer and they always treat you like family.”
All of those spots work well for carryout and dine-in, what if you’re in a hurry and just want a bite to eat? Well, right next door to Wings on Brookwood is Hamilton’s root beer stand– Jolly’s. Their draft root beer and chili dogs have stood the test of time with parents and kids alike, but what about some other unheard-of spots?
“Mike’s Chili and Gyro’s–best gyros I’ve had outside of Chicago,” said Paul Carlile. “Menu has simple food done well. Family-owned as well”
Mike’s used to be on both sides of the river, but currently only has a location on Route 4. What filled in their former residence on the corner of Washington and Brookwood is Mad Mike’s. This unsung hero might be the best burger in town and is the perfect spot for a quick lunch on the west side.
Finally, is the ever-growing number of Friday night date spots in and around the Central Business District. Billy Yanks recently opened to the public on Main Street and Fretboard Brewing has a few years under their belt now. Those are fantastic options as well as the few restaurants near Marcum Park and the ones on high street.
“My brother and I go to Casual Pint at least once a week,” said Beverly Denzler Wedder. “We love craft beers, and they have a wonderful selection. The staff is super friendly. Also, I never had a bad meal there. The brunch selections are delicious!”
Casual Pint celebrated their second anniversary in the city of Hamilton in August.
If you’re interested in authentic Asian cuisine look no further than Basil 1791. Lori Smith Abner writes that they have the best chicken lo mein and egg rolls.
Whether you’re new or a lifelong resident, whether it’s for a quick bite or date night, Hamilton has the best food selections in the surrounding area.