Long-time Hamilton eatery closes their doors
Published November 29, 2019 at 2:06 pm
CORRECTION: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that Ventura’s was located on John St, when in fact it is James. Sincerest apologies for the confusion.
CORRECTION: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that Ventura’s was located on John St, when in fact it is James. Sincerest apologies for the confusion.
Popular Portuguese eatery, Ventura’s Signature Restaurant, announced recently that they will be closing their doors for good.
In a note posted to the James Street North restaurant’s website, they announce that they’re already closed and they thank their customers for their patronage over the years.
Ventura’s opened their doors in 1988, to a “warm Hamilton welcome,” they say on their website. Over the years the establishment earned a reputation for the quality of their food and their personable service.
They became an inconic fixture in the James Street North restaurant scene with their dramatic storefront featuring a huge sailboat replica mounted above their entrance. They managed to keep bringing people in even at a time when the establishments around them were struggling.
As the face of James Street North started to change, Ventura’s remained that long-time comforting fixture amid all the new hustle and bustle.
Last night, The Generator tweeted that Matt Kershaw, co-owner of The Other Bird, who owns The Mule and are partners in Odds Bar, will be reopening Rapscallion and Two Black Sheep at the former Ventura’s. The announcement was made at the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce’s Business After Business event Thursday (Nov. 28) night.
Ventura's on James North is closing and Matt Kershaw just announced @rapscallionRest & Two Black Sheep are opening in this spot! #HamOnt pic.twitter.com/3O2SiaYLkn
— The Generator (@TheGeneratorCa) November 28, 2019
Rapscallion’s Instagram bio hints at big things to come: “Our John and Young location may be closed, but we’ll be coming back bigger and better’n ever soon enough. Stay tuned!”
There’s no doubt that there is a long line of Hamiltonians sad to see Ventura’s go after being a big part of such an important Hamilton community, but the buzz around the prospective return of Rapscallion should provide plenty of comfort for foodies everywhere.