Earth To Table: Bread Bar James

We got the brussels sprouts, mushroom flatbread, large pizza (split in half), umami burger, and side arugula & fennel salad between three people and we were FULL. Packed two slices of pizza and one slice of flatbread to go. All of the food was incredible - well seasoned, great flavours, perfect cook. We also picked up a loaf of their sourdough which we're very excited to have at home. Our waitress was very professional and friendly, answering our many questions about the food. She provided solutions to our food and drink indecisiveness with suggestions that turned out to be exactly what we needed. Even the bartender stopped by at one point to help suggest beers! The waitress' timing to check in on us was great - not over bearing and there when we needed. The food was served in a timely manner, the atmosphere was cozy and chic, tables and chairs were clean. The smallest little tidbit of a qualm was the bathroom mirror was hung too high and I couldn't see myself, and the light that encircled the mirror shined directly into my eyes (#shortgirlproblem), but honestly I don't really have any complaints! The prices are reasonable, especially for the quality of food and service. Will definitely be returning to check out their lunch menu.

The service was kind and attentive!! Great vibe but the parking was kind of difficult. There is limited street parking but then a parking lot with $10 fee. As for the food, Bee Sting pizza was a 3/5, the flavour was okay but I wish there was more of a hot honey flavour. Also, arugula may work better than basil. But the Bread Plate was absolutely fantastic 5/5, I wish we asked for more bread. I'll dream about that appetizer. The cherry/green onion butter and hummus were great. I didn't love the basil walnut spread though, very grassy flavour.

One of my favourite Hamilton restaurants to visit! Although not on the menu anymore, you can order the Cheese Louise pizza - AMAZINGLY cheesy *highly recommend* Service is usually great! Inside the restaurant is very nice. I gave a 4 instead of 5 star because of the noise level when it’s full. The acoustics make it sound like you’re listening to every other table amplified, and can barely hear those your with. Still, for the food, I keep going back!

Overall: 9 / 10 An excellent pizza from crust to toppings. The ingredients are clearly premium quality. Prices are very good value for the size and flavour of the orders. I would order the Bee Sting. Crust: 9 / 10 It's a great crust with soft bite, generally chewy textures, and a delicious edge that bubbles and chars perfectly. It's medium in thickness. Very good! Possibly would be crispier if fresh, as I ordered a slice that wasn't heated enough. The toppings here, specifically the mushrooms, are the best you'll get. Unreal. Sauce: 9.5 / 10 The toppings and crust make the sauce hard to process, but it's good. I would order extra sauce to make up for this. It's fresh and tasty. Cheese: 8.5 / 10 Very fresh and tasty, also high quality. The mozzarella could be a little more generous, because it's really good, but they also have shredded cheese on many options and a variety of types. Lemon Ricotta is also a great option on the Bee Sting Toppings: 9 / 10 The toppings are the best quality in Hamilton. The mushroom is extremely flavourful. The meats are all excellent quality. You get lots of the good stuff and it is truly delicious! Best part of the pizza, if it weren't for the amazing crust and sauce.

You can’t go wrong with Bread Bar! I’ve been to the Locke Street and James Street North locations multiple times. The kale salad is a MUST and hummus was also so good. You cannot go to Bread Bar and not get pizza. Their cheese Louise pizza is melt-in-your-mouth good with chilli oil, and Brie. It’s worth trying a unique aioli as well, if they have truffle, please do yourself a favour and get that. I’ve also tried the bee sting pizza, all amazing and unique! Highly recommend!

Food and service was great. Atmosphere is very inviting. 4 people with one large pizza, burger and fries, and Caesar salad. Al food served hot and delicious. Two cocktails, one proxie wine, and a coffee along with one app was ~$200 with tip. Right downtown Hamilton. The night we were there they ran out of the bread plate which was one reason we went. Next time….