Who doesn’t love a good farmers market? I am a huge fan of markets and whenever we travel, we always make a point to visit the local markets. I have been to the Hamilton Farmers’ Market a few times before we moved here. But usually we were in and out pretty quickly just to pick up a few items! Recently I was lucky enough to be invited to a tasting event at the Hamilton Farmers’ Market. It was great to actually walk around the market and take it all in slowly. My favourite thing about this market is that you feel like you traveled around the world since there are so many authentic vendors from all walks of life.
The Hamilton Farmers’ Market is one of the oldest markets in Ontario. Started in 1837, it is located in the heart of downtown Hamilton. Even though a lot of people have driven or walked by it, it seems like a lot of locals haven’t actually had a chance to check it out! Which is unfortunate since we are very lucky to have an amazing market just steps away from our homes!
Why do I love this market so much?
Well first thing first, it is indoor and open all year round. Many farmers’ markets are only open during the summer so it is nice to have an option to support local businesses all year round. There are vendors that have been at the market for over 30 years like Lina’s Coffee to newer vendors like Jamaican Patty Shack! It is a true representation of the mix of different ethnicity that makes Hamilton (and this market) so unique.
Another thing I love so much about this market is that you can grab a great hot meal as well. In the last few years, the hot food scene at the market really stepped up their game. You can find vendors selling everything from ramen, Jamaican patties to authentic Mexican food! Whatever mood you are in, you will find a great meal here!
In my opinion, this is one of best markets in Ontario! The vendors are dedicated and loyal and you can get a great selection of grocery, meats, cheese and everything in between. The hot food vendors are trendy and reminds me of Chelsea Market in New York City! You can really feel a sense of community when you walk into the market that just makes it feel like home!
Must Check Out Vendors
Romano’s Cheese for some high quality cheese. You can find some really unique flavours like the black lemon gouda!
Mexican Kitchen for amazing gluten free traditional Mexican dishes like their award winning tacos!
Mystic Ramen for delicious ramen noodles and baos.
Best of Bread if you are in the mood for some made to order unique sandwiches
The Flyin’ G’nosh for unconventional Indian inspired cuisine
The Patty Shack for freshly baked patties
Latino Fine Foods for delicious Latin cuisines with an extensive products from Latin America
Pokeh, the first poke restaurant in Canada with fresh poke bowls and Spam musubi
Salt Lick for some deliciously smokey BBQ
Buttrum’s Family Farm for every type of produce your heart desires
Lina’s Coffee for hand made baked goods and every type of coffee you can dream of
I really hope local Hamiltonians give the market a visit and make it a regular stop when they stock up for groceries. As Hamilton continues to change, I really think it can become a tourist destination where they can add the market as one of their “must check out” places as they explore this amazing city. (looking for other things to do in Hamilton? Check out Tourism Hamilton’s website here). Have you visited the Hamilton Farmers’ Market before? Comment below and let me know who your favourite vendors are!
Leave a Comment