momstown Hamilton: The People in Your Neighbourhood, Concession Street

Welcome to momstown Hamilton's Concession Street Edition of "The People In Your Neighbourhood."  As you know Hamilton is a city made up of many beautiful neighbourhoods and it is our goal that this exciting new e-newsletter series we will provide you with many great reasons to get out exploring the city and falling in love with Hamilton and the people in your neighbourhood.

On the mountain, bookend by the Sherman Access and Jolley Cut, Concession Street is one of the city’s oldest commercial districts making it home to some seriously interesting Hamilton history. For instance, did you know an incline railway used to run from Concession Street down the mountain? 

Visit concessionstreet.net for a mini-history overview on the area, and if this merely piques your curiosity, check out the Mountain Bookstore’s extensive Hamilton history book section to learn more. 


What’s a Mom to do?

As moms we all know breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so it only makes sense that you make Papa Leos your first stop when visiting Concession Street. Well known for its delicious and locally sourced dishes, you can never go wrong starting your day with Papa’s Eggs or Huevos Rancheros and a freshly brewed cup of Red Hill coffee. (Note: You may want to call ahead for reservations on the weekend as seating is limited.)

Once your belly’s full it’s time to shop! Since Father’s Day is around the corner get ahead of the game with a visit to Tie One On. As the name suggests, this small but mighty shop specializes in men’s ties and accessories. It’s a great place to look for something classic yet special for the Mad Man in your life.

Next up, Linseed’s, and ladies I can assure you this shop is all about you. The store is literally packed from floor to ceiling with handbags, shoes, scarves, fashion jewellery and more. It’s an accessorizer’s dream and the perfect place to go to complete your outfits for the summer wedding season. Still need to find the dresses too? Select Consignments Boutique is just down the street and we spied some pretty sweet brands while scanning the shelves. Coach, anyone?            

Speaking of weddings and parties, So-Low Sales is officially one of our favourite shops for birthday party planning. A staple in the neighbourhood for 29 years and counting, owner Eva and her staff are party experts. Not only do they carry all of the usual supplies and essentials at very competitive prices (many items are less than a dollar) but they also specialize in making custom loot bags. All you have to do is provide a price point (starting from $1.99/per bag) and/or theme then Eva will do all the work for you, awesome! Now all that’s left to worry about is the cake…which you can order from Cristina’s Cakes making Concession Street your one-stop party planning destination.

This neighbourhood is also great for treating your taste buds to some delectable international cuisine. If you’re looking to dine out, La Luna’s Lebanese fare never disappoints. For at-home chefs, Opie’s Meats brings a taste of the old country to Hamilton with traditional Scottish and English dishes (think haggis and blood pudding), as well as a variety of imported groceries and treats (read: chocolate, yum!). You’ll also find an impressive selection of Middle Eastern imports and spices at Medina’s Fine Foods. And we would remiss not to mention, Hamilton’s favourite gourmet Italian to-go, Zarky’s.       

Neighbourhood highlight: Sam Lawrence Park

(photo credit: Helen Powers, livinginhamilton.wordpress.com )

We love all of the green spaces Hamilton has to offer but if there was a beauty contest Sam Lawrence Park would be the winner hands down. Located at the top of the Jolley Cut, it’s a masterpiece of both natural and landscaped splendor. The park is etched into the side of the escarpment and offers stunning views of the lower city and harbour below. It’s the perfect location for tired parents to rekindling a little romance. 

The Heart of the Hood: Juravinski Hospital

"The Juravinski Hospital provides acute inpatient and palliative care, diagnostic services and an educational environment to support the needs of cancer patients and the Juravinski Cancer Centre.  The Juravinski Hospital's highly regarded Orthopedic program combines health care and research to offer patients a range of services dedicated to helping them prepare for and recover from joint replacement surgery.
Juravinski Hospital."  Source: HHS web site

Upcoming Event:

On Saturday June, 2nd from 11am to 6pm the 16th annual Concession Streetfest will be taking place. It’s a free family event featuring music, buskers, vendors, face painting, the urban zoo, bouncers and more. Also if you are able to be there for 2pm you could be a part of a new Guinness World Record for most people playing kazoos at one time. Hope to see you there! 

momstown Mama says:

“In the summer, I love the Hamilton Mountain Farmers' Market. It is a true farmers' market, and you can tell by the way the produce changes from week to week. We try to go every Saturday. In the winter, I would say the Concession Library. We've been taking Nate since birth and he just loves it. The staff there is incredible and seems to know everybody by name. Also, at G.L. Armstrong School there is a drop-in playgroup on Wednesday mornings run by the OEYC for kids up to school age. It's a great way to meet other families in the neighbourhood.” - Leah, mom to 2 and a half year old Nate, has lived in the area for 5 years


Are you a mom in the Concession Street area? Visit our  web page and sign up for a 4 week free trial membership. momstown is the leading organization connecting moms in Hamilton; with a focus on early education and new mom support our unique blend of online and in-person connections make momstown the answer to your need for fun & friendship!