Although the Aberdeen has just celebrated its one year anniversary and I have heard glowing reviews about its gastopub/comfort food styled cuisine and atmosphere I had never had a chance to visit…until now!
The site of a former bank and of the well known restaurant Seven Windows, The Aberdeen Tavern has created a literal food frenzy in Hamilton since its opening.
A relaxing spring brunch is what my friend Monika Minnis, the talented ceramicist, visual artist and drummer and I were seeking, and we were not disappointed. Brunch takes place at the Aberdeen Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am. to 3 pm.
The interior of the restaurant radiates a classy and clubby tavern feel, but it is welcoming at the same time. The darkly elegant colour scheme and old country feel makes one feel at home, as do the cosy tufted leather banquettes. Huge windows let in plenty of natural light which adds to the enjoyment of one’s meal. Nice to see what one is eating!
Our server Pepe was quick to bring us Red Hill coffee (Aberdeen Blend) and to describe the two daily features. When you visit the Aberdeen I hope that you will have Pepe as your server as he’s highly professional, down-to-earth AND humourous.
Making our brunch choices wasn’t easy as the menu includes delights such as BBQ beef hash; omelette with brie, veggies and salad; Tavern breakfast (2 eggs, English banger, bacon, home fries, and toast); Salmon frittata; Tavern benny; stuffed French toast; BLT (with avocado); the Good Morning Burger, and three vegetarian dishes. Prices range from $13 to $17.
After studying the menu I decided on Tostada Rancheros, and Monika chose to try one of the specials, which consisted of two poached eggs, served with beef brisket on a home-made cheddar biscuit, with a side of home fries. Since we were celebrating catching up with each other I ordered a mimosa, and Monika decided to try a bellini ($9 each).
Service was speedy and soon we were sipping our delicious drinks and gazing in wonder at the abundance of food before us.
My Tostada Rancheros consisted of two poached eggs, guacamole, lime crema, cheddar, salsa fresca, and was served with black beans and home fries ($14). The eggs were cooked to perfection, oozing with yellow goodness. The home fries were well done and delicious.
Monika pronounced her dish to be delicious with the poached eggs done beautifully, the beef brisket tender and the cheese biscuit melting in her mouth. Her dish was accompanied by home fries and she also ordered a house green salad, which came complete with thinly shaved radish, tomatoes, and onions.
Although we were both full and couldn’t finish our huge portions Pepe insisted that for dessert we share a fresh out of the oven blueberry scone. We couldn’t (were afraid to) say no and we were glad that we didn’t, as the scone was served hot, oozing butter, and accompanied by a delectable blueberry sauce, and more butter!
After our experience I can recommend that the Aberdeen should definitely be on your radar as a weekend brunch destination. I can’t wait to return for lunch or dinner and experience the savoury delights of the restaurant, and its top-notch service all over again.
Check out the photo gallery below! Photos by Cyndi Ingle Photography.
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- Classy interior
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- Delicious side salad
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- Poached eggs with beef brisket
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- Patrons enjoying brunch
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- The amazing Pepe!
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- Tostada Rancheros
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- Tostada Rancheros
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- Monika enjoying her brunch
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- Fabulous mimosa a great way to start the day!
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- Warm blueberry scone
432 Aberdeen Ave, Hamilton, 905-523-7707
