October 1, 2025
Downtown Hamilton keeps growing, with new spots opening that bring more food, fashion, and services to the core. From cafés and restaurants to local shops and even a new pet grooming salon, these additions add fresh character to the neighbourhood and give people more reasons to explore.
Amici
Amici, located at 17 John Street North, offers a size-inclusive clothing line that blends minimal design with streetwear looks. Their unisex collection ranges from M to 5XL, making it accessible to a wide audience. The shop also serves as a hub for community events, hosting pop-ups and vendor showcases while building a loyal following through their welcoming atmosphere.
📍 17 John St N
🌐 amicibrand.com
Biggs Ribs
Biggs Ribs, now open at 56 James Street North, has quickly earned a following for their slow-cooked all beef back ribs, grilled short ribs, wings, and loaded sides. The brand started with sold-out pop-ups in Brampton and Toronto before opening their first location, and now they’ve brought the same smoky comfort food to Hamilton’s core. With generous portions and crowd-pleasing favourites like banana pudding, it’s already becoming a downtown staple.
📍 56 James St N
🌐 biggsribs.ca
Daigyo
Daigyo Café at 125 King Street East is Canada’s most authentic Japanese tea house, known for sourcing ceremonial-grade matcha straight from Shizuoka, Japan. Their menu highlights both classic teas and inventive desserts, from a delicate white peach jasmine soft serve (exclusive to Hamilton) to roasted houjicha floats. The modern, calming space is a new destination for Hamiltonians looking to slow down and experience tea culture in a unique way.
📍 125 King St E
🌐 daigyo.ca
The Dapper Dog Den
The Dapper Dog Den, at 120 King Street East, is a boutique grooming salon focused on comfort and care for pups of all sizes. Services include everything from full grooming and cage-free options to add-ons like nail grinding and teeth brushing. With a selfie mirror for pups and a welcoming vibe for owners, it’s quickly become a go-to for downtown dog lovers.
📍 120 King St E
🌐 thedapperdogden.ca
Kinton Ramen
Kinton Ramen has brought its popular bowls to 50 King William Street, offering a cozy spot for noodles, rice bowls, and small plates. Guests can customize their ramen by choosing the broth, protein, and add-ons, or opt for combo meals that make dining simple and affordable. With long hours and a warm, casual setting, it’s already a busy hub for quick lunches and late-night dinners alike.
📍 50 King William St
🌐 kintonramen.com/location/king-william-hamilton
The Market On James North
The Market On has officially opened its doors at 60 James Street North, right at the corner of James and Rebecca. Building on the legacy of Hamilton-born Hasty Market, this new concept blends the feel of a local grocer with the convenience of a modern shop. Visitors will find everything from fresh produce and ready-made meals to pantry staples, beer, and wine—all in a space designed with community in mind. It’s a fresh take on everyday shopping that brings both quality and convenience to the core.
📍 60 James St N
🌐 themarketon.ca
Niku Niku All You Can Eat Japanese Grill
Niku Niku at 46 James Street North offers all-you-can-eat Japanese and Korean BBQ with premium meats, seafood, and fresh vegetables grilled right at your table. With a wide variety of sides, sushi, and desserts plus quick lunch sets and bentos, it’s a lively spot for groups or a satisfying meal any day of the week.
📍 46 James St N
🌐 nikuniku.ca
Per’So’Na
Per’So’Na, at 14 James Street North, has introduced Hamilton to refined dining in an elegant yet approachable setting. The restaurant offers a thoughtful menu with seasonal ingredients, elevated mains, and carefully crafted cocktails. From brunch to dinner, every detail, from the décor to the attentive service, creates a space built for connection and memorable meals.
📍 14 James St N
🌐 eatpersona.com
Piano Piano
Piano Piano’s new Hamilton location at 62 King Street East brings character and playful design to the King John Building. Known for its standout mural and lively interior, the restaurant offers a range of Italian classics, from pizzas and pastas to shareable family-style dining. Specials like daily lunch sets, happy hour snacks, and frozen take-home pizzas keep things fresh and accessible for every kind of diner.
📍 62 King St E
🌐 pianopianotherestaurant.com
Coming Soon
Keep an eye out for more openings this fall:
Anytime Fitness 📍 59 King St E
Wingstop 📍 42-44 King William St
These new businesses are helping to shape the next chapter of downtown. Stop in for a meal, browse for new fashion, or book a grooming session for your pup; there’s always something fresh to discover. And with more openings on the horizon, it’s a great time to keep exploring the core.