A local's guide to Hamilton's Locke Street for the Toronto day-tripper

Mar 31 2017, 11:40 pm

Written for Daily Hive by Amanda Stancati of People of Hamilton in partnership with Hamilton Economic Development.

From sidewalk sales to farmers’ markets to summer and holiday-themed festivals, Locke Street is brimming with energy. Close to Hamilton’s well-known James Street North and even closer to the bars of Hess Village, Locke Street is a destination for specialty shops, restaurants, and services. Locke Street isn’t long, but there’s lots to see.

We have your guide for your next visit to one of Hamilton, Ontario’s hottest neighbourhoods.

Brunch

Arrive on Locke Street and start the day off right before your leisurely stroll. Enjoy a casual brunch at The West Town Bar & Grill, the more elegant Mattson & Co, or the newest brunch addition to the street, The Beverly on Locke.

Serving up brunch and lunch in a family-friendly environment, The Beverly on Locke is a place for neighbours to gather and indulge in good ‘ole comfort food with a twist. Fill up on Aunt Merle’s Big Breakfast Sandwich and Dip, Sweet Melissa’s Potato Pancakes, Cinnamon Toast Punch, Beverly’s Uncle Benny, and other hearty dishes that will remind you of brunch at mom’s.

Shopping

From antique shops to toy stores to chocolatiers, Locke Street is home to an eclectic mix of businesses. For style finds, the luxury boutique Solee Shoes has a selection of footwear, handbags and accessories from Italy, Spain, New York, Montreal, and Toronto. Browse jewellery at Laura Tedesco Jewellery Design, or find fashions that suit your style at Pippa And Prue, Nude Boutique, Sundra, and Franjipanji.

Be sure to visit Sexton in the City Boutique’s new location on Locke to shop clothing, accessories, and makeup. The shop is owned by fashion stylist, makeup artist, and blogger Natalie Sexton who regularly appears on The Marilyn Denis Show and CHCH Television.

Locke Street has a selection of home decor and gift shops including Olive’s OddmentsLuLu & Lavigne, the French-inspired Pure Home Couture for luxury soaps, perfumes and candles, and many others. But the lifestyle and apparel brand Canoe Trading Co is one Locke Street shop you won’t leave empty-handed, with its refined, curated mix of apparel, accessories, beauty products, home decor and greeting cards.

Coffee

Refuel with a cup of java from Brown Dog Coffee Shop, a welcoming two-level cafe housed in a former church. Their fresh apple fritters are must-trys – fried to order! In addition to locally roasted coffee, Democracy* Coffee House offers craft beer, an organic tea selection and gluten-free and vegan-friendly snacks within its chalkboard walls. And get this: there’s no WiFi so you’ll actually have to talk to each other. If you love dogs, enjoy your coffee among fur babies at My Dog’s Cafe and Bar or relax with a brew on the patio of Finch on Locke. If you have a sweet-tooth, you can find a delicious afternoon pick me up at Amo Gelato Cafe.

Sweet Souvenirs

There’s still more to see! Stroll along the street and pop into shops like Citizen Kid for the little ones, Textures Craftworks for artisan creations or Epic Books to pick up a new read. Music lovers may want to browse Picks & Sticks Music.  

Don’t forget to pick up some yummy souvenirs to bring back home with you and share with friends. Forrat’s Chocolate makes chocolate bars, caramels and truffles onsite.  Or opt for cupcakes and whoopie pies from Bitten on Locke to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Dining

The trendy Brux House offers craft beer, great cocktails and creative dishes while Earth to Table Bread Bar offers a seasonally-inspired menu of handcrafted foods.  Visit these or one of the other Locke Street restaurants and end your day wanting to come back for more.

The shops mentioned in this post are only a selection. See a full list of Locke Street shops here or visit for yourself!

Amanda StancatiAmanda Stancati

+ Dished
+ Restaurants & Bars
+ Shopping
+ Travel Deals
ADVERTISEMENT