April 2, 2025
Read Time: 6 minutes
Is it just me, or does Downtown Hamilton get a little more vibrant every spring? As we move into warmer weather, we’re excited to highlight the fantastic new businesses that have opened their doors in our BIA. Explore great shopping, check out new entertainment, or discover valuable local services that enhance our community.
Support local and experience the best of Downtown Hamilton this spring!
Quick Look: Who’s New in Downtown Hamilton
Restaurants
Flavors of Kolkata – Indian cuisine with a modern twist
IBN Alsham Shawarma & Grill – Syrian street food favourites
Mezbaan Kitchen & Bar – Afghan dishes & kabobs
Parma – Southern Italian comfort food
Pho Anh Vu – Regional Vietnamese specialties
Piccolo – Tuscan sandwiches & Roman pizza
Taste of Jamaican’s Kitchen – Jerk chicken, curry, and more
Professional Services
Niagara Caregivers & Personnel LTD – Personalized caregiver support
Lifestyle & Beauty
Renee Beach Studio – Hair colouring & styling
Vesna Tattoo Studio – Realistic custom tattoos
Entertainment
Escape Game Entertainment – Themed escape room experiences
Bars
Easy Tiger – Cocktails & snacks with chill vibes
Shops
Encore Bridal Studio – Sustainable designer gowns
Florista Floral Boutique – Modern florals & gifts
Restaurants
Flavors of Kolkata
Founded by four passionate food enthusiasts, Flavors of Kolkata blends authentic Indian recipes with contemporary culinary techniques. Guests can indulge in dishes that showcase Kolkata’s vibrant culinary heritage, complemented by elegant presentation and attentive service. Situated right in the heart of the Downtown Hamilton BIA, this new restaurant is ideal for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
54 James St N, Hamilton, ON L8R 2K1
Website: flavorsofkolkata.ca
IBN Alsham Shawarma & Grill
IBN Alsham Shawarma & Grill introduces the rich culinary traditions of Damascus to Hamilton. Patrons can enjoy authentic Syrian classics such as grilled shawarma, kebabs, flavorful mezze platters, and delectable sweets like baklava and kunafa. The welcoming atmosphere, adorned with Middle Eastern décor, provides an immersive experience of Syrian culture.
96 Main St E, Hamilton, ON L8N 1G3
Website: ibn-alsham.ca
Mezbaan Kitchen & Bar
Mezbaan Kitchen & Bar, located at King St East and Catherine St, blends authentic Afghan cuisine with modern dining experiences. Specializing in kabobs, grilled meats, and traditional dishes, Mezbaan caters both dine-in and take-out options. Its welcoming ambiance makes it perfect for family dinners, casual meetups, and celebrations, with catering available for larger groups.
135 King Street East, Hamilton, ON L8N 1B2
Website: mezbaanbarandkitchen.ca
Parma
Parma brings a delicious taste of Southern Italy to King William St, offering authentic dishes crafted from traditional family recipes. With a welcoming atmosphere suitable for romantic evenings, family gatherings, or friendly dinners, Parma provides a genuine Italian dining experience that feels warm, inviting, and truly authentic.
17 King William St, Hamilton, ON L8R 1A1
Website: parmahospitality.com/parma
Pho Anh Vu
Established in 2019, Pho Anh Vu is known for its authentic regional Vietnamese dishes, from Northern Pho to Bun Bo Hue from Central Vietnam. Guided by traditional family recipes, ensures every dish is freshly prepared daily. Pho Anh Vu is perfect for families or large groups seeking an authentic taste of Vietnam in a beautiful, comfortable setting.
96 Main St E, Unit 4, Hamilton, ON L8N 1G3
Website: phoanhvu.com
Piccolo
Piccolo offers Tuscan-inspired sandwiches served on freshly baked Schiacciata bread, alongside Roman-style pizzas, salads, and authentic Italian espresso. Located conveniently on King William St, Piccolo is perfect for a quick lunch break or casual dining experience. The fresh ingredients and cozy atmosphere make each visit a flavorful escape.
22 King William St, Hamilton, ON L8R 1A3
Website: parmahospitality.com/piccolo
Taste of Jamaican’s Kitchen
Taste of Jamaican’s Kitchen serves up classic Caribbean dishes including jerk chicken, curry goat, oxtail, and ackee & saltfish. The restaurant provides a vibrant, welcoming space for diners looking to savor authentic Jamaican flavors. With a variety of lunch specials, family packs, and seafood combos, there’s something delicious for everyone.
9 John St N, Hamilton, ON L8R 1H1
Professional Services
Niagara Caregivers & Personnel LTD
Finding the right caregiver can be challenging, but Niagara Caregivers & Personnel LTD makes the process personal and seamless. Specializing in exceptional care for children, seniors, and individuals with special needs or disabilities, their dedicated team ensures every match is thoughtfully tailored to client needs. Beyond placement, they provide ongoing support, ensuring both families and caregivers have everything they need for a successful, lasting relationship.
20 Hughson St S #701, Hamilton, ON L8N 2A1
Website: niagaracaregivers.com
Lifestyle & Beauty
Renee Beach Studio
Downtown Hamilton welcomes Renee Beach Studio, a chic beauty salon specializing in expert hair colouring and styling. Led by stylist Renee Beach, the studio focuses on personalized beauty experiences, from vibrant colours to subtle transformations, tailored uniquely for every client. Plus, its modern, carefully curated atmosphere makes each visit feel like a special treat, perfect for anyone seeking a fresh, stylish look or a confidence boost.
47 James St S, Hamilton, ON L8P 2Y6
Website: instagram.com/reneebeachshop
Vesna Tattoo Studio
Led by Anastasia Vesnina, a passionate, detail-oriented tattoo artist originally from Siberia, Vesna Tattoo Studio specializes in hyper-realistic black-and-grey and vibrant colour tattoos, artist Vesna brings her meticulous eye and self-taught mastery to every project. With a commitment to creating meaningful and incredibly detailed art, Vesna Tattoo Studio transforms tattoo ideas into lifelong masterpieces, ensuring each client leaves with a smile, and a piece of art they’ll cherish forever.
111 King St E, Hamilton, ON L8N 1A9
Website: anavesnina.com
Entertainment
Escape Game Entertainment
Escape Game Entertainment is the newest thrill to hit the Downtown Hamilton BIA, offering immersive escape room adventures designed for everyone. Perfect for team building, family fun, date nights, school outings, or celebrations, these interactive puzzle-solving experiences encourage creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. With diverse themes ranging from futuristic sci-fi adventures to magical realms, each room promises excitement for players of all skill levels. Gather your friends, family, or colleagues- this is your chance to connect, challenge yourselves, and create lasting memories in a uniquely interactive environment.
67 King St E, Hamilton, ON L8N 1A5
Website: escapegameentertainment.com
Bars
Easy Tiger
Easy Tiger is downtown Hamilton’s newest go-to snack bar and cocktail lounge, brought to you by the same folks behind the beloved Farside. Located on John St N, Easy Tiger offers top-notch cocktails, delicious bites, and a laid-back atmosphere filled with welcoming vibes. Whether you’re catching up with friends or winding down after work, this vibrant spot is already becoming a local favourite.
10 John St N, Hamilton, ON L8R 1G9
Website: easytigersnackbar.com
Shopping
Encore Bridal Studio
Encore Bridal Studio brings sustainable elegance to downtown Hamilton with its carefully curated selection of gently-loved wedding gowns. Brides-to-be can enjoy private, personalized consultations in a boutique setting, finding their dream dress among designer styles that are both stunning and eco-friendly. Encore combines sustainability, style, and personalized service, making it the ideal spot to say “yes” to the perfect gown.
64 King St E, Hamilton, ON L8N 1A6
Website: encorebridalstudio.com
Florista Floral Boutique
Florista Floral Boutique offers modern, upscale floral arrangements and thoughtfully curated gifts. Another new face on John St N, Florista offers beautifully designed bouquets and stylish gifts suitable for every occasion, from daily celebrations to special events. Step inside this charming shop and discover fresh arrangements that blend contemporary style with timeless elegance, a beautiful addition enhancing our downtown community.
6 John St N, Hamilton, ON L8R 1G9
Website: florista.ca
There’s never been a better time to explore downtown Hamilton, so come by soon to experience these amazing new businesses for yourself!
Want to Get Involved?
Interested in becoming part of the vibrant Downtown Hamilton BIA? Fill out this form or get in touch with Emily Walsh at info@downtownhamilton.org.
Already a Downtown Hamilton BIA member? Do you want to be featured? Reach out to Melanie at melanie@downtownhamilton.org. We’d love to spotlight you!