Hamilton is alive with culinary culture and U SHAO BBQ, Hamilton’s first Korean BBQ  is just another wonderful addition to our ever-expanding culinary landscape. Last weekend my friend Marco and I were invited down to the grand opening of U SHAO BBQ at the corner of John and Main Street East for a BBQ experience unlike any I’ve had before. At first I found myself asking why would I go to a restaurant to cook food for myself, but within the first fifteen minutes I wanted to grill everything in front of me. And I think I did.. poor Marco had piles of food on his plate.

Four days later and we were back down At U SHAO BBQ for a delightful family night out. As soon as Tehya and Dan heard about my experience the Sunday before they were excited to come along and now that Caron is quickly coming out of her dining “shell”.. she was game as well. Little did she know that she had to do the cooking, something she abhors.

A modern interior with clean lines and a sort of minimalistic feel, U SHAO is very inviting and the vibe you get from the staff compliments that warm and inviting feel. If you’ve never been to a Korean BBQ as I was the first visit, you’ll find it strange to see a grilling surface centered on every table in the house. With both sides of the restaurant dedicated to individual tables (could easily work for larger parties and handicap seating) and the middle of the restaurant is filled with ‘booth’ like seating. These booths can accommodate up to four people as is a bit of tight fit once the food starts to arrive. With the grill in the middle of each table, your leg room is a bit compromised with the gas and other pipes which feed and vent the grill. If you have tall or heavey people in your group, I would suggest getting one of the outer tables.

After ordering our drinks, we settled in to complete the order form. Basically all you’re doing is saying how many orders of each item you’re interested in eating, in the little boxes next to each item on the menu. By his time our waiter had already cranked-up the fire under our grill and we could already feel the radiating heat of the flame. The grill is designed in such a way that there are vents on the side to suck all the smoke and any sort of grill scent away from the restaurant itself so you don’t leave smelling like grilled meats.

Since the list of items to order is huge, I’ll try my best to remember what we ordered. I must also mention at this time that when Marco and I first went, we ordered  2 of each meat and vegetable we wanted to try.. we struggled to finish it off. So I would suggest if you’re a party of 2, get 1 of each item you want and as you go along you can get more. Since there were 4 of us, we got 2 of the following… chicken, lamb, short ribs, beef, shrimp, fish, pork, mushrooms, pineapple, onions, green peppers and I got a single order of sticky rice. If I recall correctly there was also, calamari, tofu, lettuce, kimchi, beansprouts and few other items on the menu. The grilled pineapple was a hit with the ladies so you may find that you’ll want to order more.

When the waiter arrived he was carrying stacks of perfectly marinated meats for us to get grilling. The head chef is very proud of his marinades and rightly so. The thinly sliced pieces of meat is marinated perfectly and with the grilling over the flame, all the sugars and flavors are only heightened. Dining at a Korean BBQ is a sort of community effort, as everyone gets involved in the cooking process.

I’m sure you’ll find what works for you, but we loaded our grill with a full assortment of meats and vegetables and allowed that to cook. Since they’re sliced very thin they don’t take long to cook. Trying not to cross contaminate we used the tongs for handling the raw meats and our chop sticks for the fully cooked food (ask for forks if you struggle with chop sticks) … we then moved the fully cooked meats onto our plates. As we dined we added more raw food onto the grill so at no time were we ever out of cooked food. Be sure to ask for the hot sauce and the sort of sesame oil / soy sauce combo they created inhouse. Remember that if you run out of anything you’re free to ask fro more… it’s all you can eat. Your waiter may ask if you want your grill changed.. if you find that it’s coated with burnt meats etc have them change it.

It’s great fun grilling at your table, something I didn’t appreciate until I actually tried it and the food is simply outstanding. Hats off to the chef for some amazing marinades which are all uniquely different, but compliment each other. Don’t forget to leave room for the frozen desserts which also come as part of your dinner and be sure to try the mango ice cream.

I strongly believe that not only is U SHAO BBQ a spot to dine out when you’re ready to try something international, but it’s an experience in itself and I love the concept. The staff are very friendly and always at your call so don’t feel intimated if it’s your first time. With wide aisles, automatic doors and tables which can accommodate people in wheel chairs and other mobility devices, they’ve thought about everyone at U SHAO BBQ.

Look for a lunch menu in the coming weeks and we were told that they’re working very hard at a take out menu which will also be released in the coming weeks.

U SHAO Korean BBQ Restaurant

27 John St. South Hamilton Ontario L8N 2B8
905 521 8880 (for reservations)

Before you go we’d love for you to leave us your comments below, even if it’s just to say hello. And don’t forget to join us on FaceBook (for our latest updates, including discounts, coupons and more pictures from our time at U SHAO BBQ) and do tune in to our videos (escapades!) on our youtube channel we’ve created.

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There’s a new “night out” option on Hamilton’s East Mountain and from the look of things it’s already etching it’s way into the fabric of Hamilton’s dining and nightlife scene. We arrived at 7 pm for our reservation at Milestones Grill and Bar on Paramount Drive of Hamilton’s east mountain and were greeted by two lovely ladies who welcomed us and directed us to our table on the left side of the restaurant with a wonderful window view. Looking around we could tell that it was going to be a busy night for the kitchen and wait staff, so what better time to see how they handle the pressure of a full restaurant.

We had been here a couple weeks ago for a quick drink and dessert, but at that time it wasn’t about a review so I didn’t have the camera or in that frame of mind. During that visit I had glanced at the open concept kitchen at the rear of the restaurant  and was dying to have a peek. Separated by huge etched glass windows, the kitchen is a buzz of organized activity as would be expected and as someone who loves to cook… exciting to see.

After a warm welcome by our waiter for the night, we decided on drinks and started to work our way through the impressive menu. I’m not really into beverages, but I do huger for a good cup of coffee and since I don’t drink the regular stuff, finding a good cup of decaf can be a bit challenging. Not tonight! The coffee was superb and I especially like that a small container with cream is provided and not those little creamers you usually get, that’s never enough. Caron started off with a Bikini Martini (Smirnoff Vodka, Blue Curacao, peach liqueur, cranberry juice $8.49) which was recommended by our helpful server. Caron raved how delightful this and the White Grape Cosmo (Smirnoff White Grape Vodka, Triple Sec, cranberry juice and lime $8.49) were and was quite happy that our waiter suggested them.

I try my best to try new things at the different restaurants we visit, so I decided on the Kobe Style Classic Beef Sliders (Three  Kobe style classic beef mini hamburgers, simmered in a roasted garlic au jus and topped with pizza Mozzarella and crispy onion strings. Served with mustard sauce, splash of basil oil and toasted sesame seeds. $10.79) and Caron opted for the starter size roasted garlic Caesar (house made Ciabatta croutons, Reggiano cheese, signature Caesar dressing,.. topped with shaved Asiago cheese and roasted garlic – 5.99). WOW! Those little beef sliders actually melted  in my mouth, and if I didn’t pace myself I could easily have been full with these (though they looked small). The starter size salad that Caron got was a huge portion and to be quite honest, these two starters could easily count as our meal. Though Caron didn’t care for the roasted garlic pieces she got with her salad, I devoured then. The sweetness of perfectly roasted garlic is not to be wasted and it complimented the crisp pieces of lettuce and just the right amount of creamy Caesar dressing.

After pretty much filling up on the starters, we decided to slow down a bit before the main course. It was at this time we really took time to look around at the interior of the restaurant which had a sort of contemporary design. The lighting and overall setting had a very calming and somewhat romantic feel to it and it was nice to be in an establishment that didn’t have some sort of theme. With cowboy, sports and outdoor/wilderness motif the restaurant in the area seem to adopt. We liked that it was casual, but still felt kind of fancy.   As I pointed out, the kitchen was at the back of the restaurant and from the upper level where we were sitting, we could easily see across to the right where there’s a lower level. Past that lower level is the main bar area where there were people enjoying beverages, conversation and whatever game was on the two fairly large tv screens. Seemed like a good spot to hang out after work with friends!

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Again the suggestions by our sever were on point. Our dinner was everything we expected after the wonderful starters and more. Caron had the New York striploin (New York Striploin – cut from Canada AAA beef. With a trio of signature steak sauces – house made Worcestershire, Spiced Mustard and Gaucho sauce. Served with choice of side and seasonal vegetables – $29.99) with fresh cut fries and the seasonal vegetables were asparagus and what seemed like grape tomatoes. I don’t recall any complaints from Caron other than “how do I finish all of this”. Yes, the servings were large and beautifully presented. With my choice I didn’t realize that it also came with a side roasted garlic Caesar, so when it arrived I was quite surprised, but I worked my way through the divine roasted garlic dressing.

If I had one complaint during this night, is that for some reason the steak I got didn’t really stand out (Fire grilled NY Striploin (Angus beef), with Chilean Crab and tiger shrimp, in a lobster butter sauce. Came with mu choice – garlic mashed potato and asparagus and grape tomatoes. $31.99). But that could be attributed to the fact that I found out that I didn’t like the taste and texture of the of the crab meat which was used as a topping on my steak and I did find that the shrimp had a texture that had be believing that they were sitting in liquid for quite some time. The steak itself was perfectly grilled to my request and quite tasty (must be aged). The star on my plate had to be the garlic mashed potato. With a rich creamy and buttery base, followed by the perfect balance of garlic flavor… I was in my personal nirvana.

It was time to order dessert, something I normally had a problem with, especially when you get a menu with items that all sound magnificent. We finally settled for the cheese cake after once again consulting our waiter for his input (White chocolate cheesecake – Italian style, rich white chocolate, espresso creme Anglais and whipped cream – $7.49) and Caron had the apple crisp (caramel gingered Apple crisp – Slivered apples stewed with brown sugar, ginger and spices, topped with walnut crumble and house made caramel sauce. 7.49) By this time we were bursting from the seams, but these decadent desserts were not going to be wasted. Tip – if you’re on a date, get one dessert to share. Once again, you’re getting large portions.

With top notch service complimented by wonderful surroundings and food which can only be described as delectable, Milestones Hamilton location scores high with us. Even if it’s just to hang out at the bar and enjoy some appetizers and beverages  or have a romantic dinner with a loved one, you can’t go wrong. Our waiter (still can’t remember his name) was quite honest in giving his opinion on the menu and even pointed out what he think we wouldn’t like after hearing our likes and dislikes. With a constant smile, polite service and an overall attentive and professional nature, he was an excellent reflection of the service we’ve now come to expect at Milestones.

Location:

787 Paramount Drive, Hamilton, Ontario, L8J 0B4 (Red Hill and Mud St.)
Hours: Mon-Fri 1130 am open/Sat-Sun 1130am open/Sun-Thurs 11 pm cls/Fri-Sat 12 am cls
Tel: 905-573-7317

Be sure to check their website for specials they run, which include “Girls Night Out”, “Date Night” and many drink and dessert specials. As luck would have it, this night there was a special price on all Martinis and from the way Caron now speak about the Bikini martini she had, they must be very good.

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The Keg Steakhouse on Upper James street on Hamilton’s “Mountain” is one of those restaurants where you’re guaranteed to get a good steak without having to break the bank (but, seems good things don’t last long). After our last visit it should have been enough to confirm that the quantity and quality of their food is no longer what we’ve grown to expect, but we didn’t think much of it and decided that we would give them another try.

It was a Friday night so we went with the expectation that we’d have to wait to be seated as we’d be dealing with the weekend dinner crowd, plus the weather was great so the patio crowd was also there. It took us about 30 minutes to be seated and it was a great opportunity to people-watch as we tormented ourselves with the lovely scent of grilling steaks from the kitchen. Our server for the night was very good at his job, something we’ve also grown accustomed to at the Keg (good service).

We started off with  non-alcoholic beverages and I settled for my normal decaf coffee which was hot. I can’t say much more of this coffee as it was bland and if not for it being dark like coffee, I could easily be drinking a hot glass of water with cream and sugar. After placing our dinner order we settled for the Garlic Cheese Bread appetizer (Cheddar, Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses oven toasted to a golden brown on French stick), which I must confess was the hit of the night. The sort of tangy taste of the aged Parmesan was simply delightful and overall very filling.

As we waited for our meal to arrive it gave us the opportunity to chat, scope out some of the dishes that were making it’s way to the other tables ( the lovely scent was so punishing when you’re hungry… lobster seems to have been the hit this night) and take in the general ambiance. A multil-level restaurant, with different size tables and booths, filtered light to give a sort of romantic feel and there was a buzz of activity since it was a full house.

Indy wasn’t very hungry so she ordered the Keg Caesar – Crisp romaine and aged Parmesan cheese in a creamy dressing, which she mentioned was excellent. Tehya ordered off the kids menu and settled on the Kids Sirloin Steak – Each meal includes your choice of fries, Caesar salad or seasonal vegetables. All meals include a vegetable plate, ice cream for dessert and a soft drink, juice or milk. In the pics you’ll  notice two things about this kids meal. It was similar in portion size to the steak Caron ordered off the main menu and with the inclusion of the vegetable plate, you got the impression that you got much more for your money by ordering off the kids menu.

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As mentioned above, Caron got the  Grilled Top Sirloin served with fries. (choice of baked potato, fries, salad) Generally the steak was rather small and bland, but at least it was cooked to her liking. I strongly believe that if you’re going to have a scanty plate, use a smaller plate so at least we get the impression we’re getting a full meal. In my quest to move away from my traditional order of “steak” I opted for the grilled chicken topped with lobster sauce with chunks of perfectly cooked lobster pieces and asparagus. Just wish there was more lobster and less of the overcooked chicken breast. I’m no fan of chicken breast and this horrid attempt at grilling only confirmed this. My meal came with garlic mashed potato, which is why I keep coming back to the Keg. Their garlic mash is probably the best in the city.

Our bill with tip came to just over $100 ( we didn’t order any alcoholic beverages) and though the service was excellent and it also gave us the opportunity to spend time out as a family, I would really have to think twice before going back to the Keg for dinner. There’s some work to be done on quality and quantity to get back to the standards they originally set for patrons. I realize that this night was very busy, but it’s my opinion that a good restaurant can be judged on a busy night to see if they can maintain a level of standard when more is demanded from the kitchen.

Hamilton Mountain Keg
1170 Upper James Street
Hamilton, Ontario
L9C 3B1
Canada
(905) 574-7880

HOURS:

DINING ROOM
Monday – Thursday 4:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Friday 4:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Saturday 3:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Sunday 3:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

BAR
Monday – Thursday 4:30 p.m. – Midnight
Friday 4:30 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Saturday 3:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Sunday 3:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

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