FINALLY! Hamilton can now boast having one, if not the tastiest roti in Canada. I’ve lived in the Hamilton area for a couple decades now and only yesterday was I able to enjoy a roti that rivals those from the more popular establishments in ethnic centers in Toronto. If you recall I did a review post of Drupatis Roti and Doubles where I spoke a bit about this type of specialty restaurant, featuring the foods from Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean in general.

Hamilton is the home to a handful of “Caribbean” themed restaurants and though there are some dishes that they serve that are quite good, to get a true traditional curry chicken or goat roti that makes you crave another, even though your belly is saying no… was out of the question. Yesterday we drove down to the downtown core and though finding a parking spot (cheap) was a bit of a pain, it was well worth the trip. I now have a reason to go back downtown!

Famous Recipe Canadian and Caribbean cuisine had only just opened their doors to the public the day before and we were invited for  a tour, so we were very happy to take them up on their offer. As with my style I don’t mention owner’s names etc.. I’ll stick to how I do my reviews and  give you a run down of the food, the establishment, prices and some final thoughts.

The establishment.

Located close to one of the busiest corners in downtown Hamilton (King and Bay St.), this was a former hot dog take out restaurant which was converted to the new Caribbean food (roti shop) take out restaurant. Tastefully decorated, very clean and well organized inside… it’s very welcoming. The owners and staff makes you feel like a “Star” from the time you walk in to the time you leave happily with food in hand. Though a bit tight as far as space goes, the layout makes great use of the limited space.

The Food

I don’t think I can recall their full menu but we did leave after enjoying several doubles which is something you could never get in Hamilton before as well as some of those wonderful soft drinks that originate from the Caribbean (see pic below). Our take out order included a curry chicken roti with slight pepper (you have to ask for their hot sauce) and a lunch special of curry chicken with potatoes on a bed of long grain brown rice. I grew up eating this sort of food and to be honest, this is the closest to homemade I’ve ever purchased. The roti was bursting with curry goodness and packed with tons of flavour. The same can be said for the rice dish we ordered. The curry was not overpowering and it had a true taste of the islands. As you may know, the curry from the islands is different that what you would get at Indian restaurants and grocery stores.

While touring the restaurant I did see a lovely selection of beef patties, jerk chicken (looked tempting) and several other dishes which were just off the stove and being placed into warmers at the front. BTW, great touch putting the food up front in warmers for customers to see. This will help educate people on the diversity of foods we now have in the city and show the freshness of your products.

There’s a wide selection of foods and specials to choose from, including vegetarian options as well. I was assured by the owners that on any given day there will be specials (including their $1 hot dogs) to cater for those of us on a limited budget who still wants to enjoy a great meal. I’m not sure how clear the picture is above with the menu, but if you can’t read it.. take a drive down and get the true Caribbean culinary experience.  BTW, as the names says, there’s also many excellent Canadian fast food dishes on sales as well. Hot dogs and fresh made subs seems to be the hit, as I saw several customers make those purchases while we were there.

Prices!

Absolutely the best prices in town! If you’re looking for an exciting meal that’s sure to not only full you, but leave a lasting impression (you’ll be telling your friends). You must give Famous recipe Canadian and Caribbean Cuisine a try on your next visit to downtown Hamilton. Students and people who work in the core of the city… you now have another affordable option for lunch.

Final Thoughts.

I can only rave about the food, prices and service at Famous recipe Canadian and Caribbean Cuisine. It’s a new option for the people of Hamilton and surrounding areas to enjoy traditional home cooked Caribbean dishes, including jerk, curry chicken roti, curry goat and doubles.. Things you could not readily get in the city before. And if you did they were a poor representation of the islands and seriously overpriced.

Kudos to the owners and workers at Famous Recipe for a job well done!

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