5 of the oldest restaurants in Hamilton, Ontario that you need to visit
Published December 29, 2025 at 9:57 am
Hamilton’s culinary scene has undoubtedly picked up speed in recent years, but there are a number of establishments that have been operating in our community for so long that they’ve become integral to our city’s history and personal traditions.
Below are the Top 5 restaurants that have been holding it down for decades and are still at the top of their game.
5. The Village
This family-owned and operated restaurant, located in the heart of Stoney Creek, has been a local favourite for more than 40 years, and one visit is all it takes to understand why they’re still on top. Walking into the restaurant is like visiting a family member — the staff is kind, welcoming, and happy to accommodate. The food, which is of the highest quality, is what you would expect from a family-style restaurant: they serve breakfast all day (their eggs benny is legit) and lunch and supper (their shaved prime rib is popular). The Village is just one of those places where you can feel right at home, hunkering down for an hour or two to read a book and periodically play catch-up with the staff, or you can help ease your hangover with some eggs and bacon and a Bloody Mary, or even take the whole family for a traditional Sunday dinner. Any which way you do it, it’s a comforting and delicious experience.
4. The Capri
The Capri first opened its doors in November 1963 and quickly became popular for its pizza and the Blue Grotto, located just above the restaurant, which featured live entertainment and nightlife. This restaurant also has the distinction of being where my parents went on one of their first dates. Over the years, much about the eatery has stayed the same — the food, the faces, the homey atmosphere. Recent renovations have brought the decor up to the 21st Century, but it still maintains that sense of familiarity and welcome. The pizza is still world-class, and their pastas are rich and tasty. When I go to the Capri, though, it’s for their scallopini piccata. It’s oh so tender and fresh tasting, and just melt-in-your-mouth delectable. I’ve been eating at this restaurant for many years, and I’ve yet to have a disappointing meal.
3. Shakespeare’s
This steakhouse is a special place for many Hamiltonians. The Elizabethan-inspired space has set the scene for many celebrations, date nights and get-togethers. When you walk through the doors, you are transported to a different time as the restaurant’s old-world charm envelops you. This family-owned operation opened its doors in 1969 and has maintained a consistent reputation as being the best of the best in this city. Their steak and seafood are second to none; their desserts are divine; and their extensive wine and cocktail lists are the icing on the cake. The menu has changed over the years to adapt to changing tastes, but the quality has never suffered. What puts Shakespeare’s at the top of the game is the personalized service provided by the Putignano family and their staff — they are as much a part of the celebrations that take place here as the celebrants.
2. The Innsville
We recently discovered the Innsville even though it’s been in business for more than six decades, and it has quickly become a date-night favourite for my husband and I. There’s something utterly romantic about its out-of-the-way location and its cozy interior. The decor has been updated throughout the years to keep things fresh, but not enough to diminish its original character and charm. They’re known for their incredible prime rib dinner, but their other specialties include the Lake Erie Perch, Surf n’ Turf, and the Sirloin Steak. Kick things off with their signature Festive Salad, and you won’t be disappointed. The Innsville is also known for its murder mystery nights (book well in advance because they sell out quickly) and Dinner & Show evenings. The fantastic service here is highly personalized and efficient, making you feel pampered.
1. Hutch’s on the Beach
This place has been an absolute Hamilton landmark since the 1940s. Hutch’s is iconic for its vintage diner vibes, crispy fish and chips, burgers, milkshakes and unbeatable waterfront views. It is one of those places everyone in Hamilton has a memory of, from family dinners to summer nights by the lake, and it still feels just as special today.
