this is a really solid place, probably the go to spot in hamilton. the tap lineup is quite good for the # of taps, the service is great. i could easily waste away an afternoon here. i want to go to there.

When I visited: April 2012. What I had: Amsterdam Boneshaker IPA (draught), Spearhead Hawaiian Style Pale Ale (draught), Crab Poutine. What I Liked: Cozy atmosphere, good music, unpretentious crowd, plenty of seating to choose from, friendly and efficient staff, tasty bar food, several solid taps. What I Disliked: A few of the draughts could stand to be more interesting (i.e. four different blonde lagers). Would I go back? Yes. Overall Rating: 78

Cute little place in Hamilton, on the bar street. Not quite as good as the Judge but a good alternative. Probably younger crowd than the Judge. Has outdoor patio in the back.

I go here fairly regularly because this place does it up right. It’s not a huge place and gets packed fairly easily, so there have been times when I simply haven’t gotten in, but you snooze you lose. It is in an old victorian style home, taking up both floors. Downstairs seats a few tables and the main bar, while upstairs hosts a more casual atmosphere of games, chairs, etc....like you are in someones home. Decor is eclectic and funky, provides a nice touch to the visit. Service is always good to above average, the staff are trained well, know their beers well enough, and are always smiling. I’ve eaten here too many times to mention, but the wings are great, as is the cajun catfish sandwich. The wings are a great portion and the sauces are excellent. The catfish sandwich is spicy,savoury, very flavourful, well portioned, and well priced. I like that they have Boneshaker on tap on a regular basis. In fact, they only serve craft beer which speaks to the quality of the establishment.

Excellent Ontario craft beer selections and great food and service as well. The atmosphere is a little more suited to the university and student crowd than traditional bar-goers. That said, I wish we had more bars locally with this selection.

A really nice little spot along Augusta Street. A series of small tables up front with a small bar along one side. Cozy but not dark at all. Light wood and a series of games available. They’ve got a small little patio in back as well that is kind of cozy. Decent tap list with a good representation of Ontario microbreweries. Kudos for attempting to keep a list of what’s on tap as well. Well-priced compared to The Winking Judge next door (and with less grumpy service). I haven’t tried the food, but the menu looks appetizing - I’ll update if/when I do. In the meantime, it’s a great spot for a pint of something tasty.