Angelina Bourassa
We were really looking forward to trying Seasoned Restaurant for lunch to celebrate my fiancé’s birthday before our show at Theatre Aquarius next door. Everything started off great. We had a reservation, were seated on the patio, and our server Kristin brought us water and took our orders. I ordered a Cosmopolitan and my fiancé ordered a Tom Collins, along with the meatballs to start and the French Onion Grilled Cheese and Chicken Focaccia for our mains.
A few minutes later, our server returned to ask for ID. I’m 21 and my fiancé just turned 28. I offered to show a photo of my ID since I don’t usually carry the physical card with me, but she refused to even look at it, which I understand to a point as I know I look young. My fiancé, however, showed his driver’s license which had expired just 3 days prior, along with his renewal paperwork, health card, and PAL license, all valid forms of photo ID clearly showing his age. She refused all of them.
Without offering to bring back the drink menu, she suggested a non-alcoholic mojito instead. I agreed, assuming it would be freshly made as it usually is at other restaurants. Unfortunately, it came from a can with ingredients listed as carbonated water, cane sugar, and lime juice concentrate. There was no mint, and it tasted more like sweetened lime water than a mojito.
When another staff member, possibly the chef, brought out our appetizer, I politely asked him to take the drink away since it tasted awful. I had only taken one sip. He seemed surprised and questioned me, saying “Awful?” and then, “Well, it’s a mocktail, there’s no rum.” I explained that I understood that, but it just didn’t taste good. The exchange came across as dismissive and unnecessary. If I didn’t like it, there was no reason to make me feel uncomfortable for saying so.
The food itself was fine. The meatballs and sandwiches were decent, but the overall experience was disappointing. We had hoped to make this our regular spot before shows at Theatre Aquarius, but unfortunately the service left a bad impression.
Edit in response to the Owner:
Thank you for your response. I understand you have to follow AGCO regulations, and that was never the issue. What’s disappointing is that your reply ignores the rest of my concerns. The way the situation was handled, the refusal to accept my fiancé’s valid government-issued photo IDs (his health card and PAL license), the lack of courtesy afterward, and the dismissive attitude when I politely sent back a drink that didn’t taste good.
At no point were we argumentative about the alcohol policy. We accepted your decision and moved on, but the overall experience was uncomfortable and poorly handled. A respectful explanation at the time, or even here in your response, would have gone a long way.
… moretammy lockhart
Amazing !!! We started off sharing the pear & walnut salad… delicious!!! Mom had the chicken Marsala & couldn’t stop saying how delicious it was . The table beside us were also throughly enjoying theirs as well . I had the cavatelli pasta it was to die for !!! What an amazing flavor. We ended with a shared piece of pecan pie … best we’ve ever had . Highly recommend. Fresh … flavorful… fantastic! Thank you Kristin for your recommendations … attention & wonderful service. We had a lovely time & we will be back .
… moreYvonne Dunbar
This place surprised me. I was expecting it to be good but came away with feeling it was great! The service was very good. The place was extremely clean. The bathrooms were decorated so nicely. The atmosphere was warm and inviting. I ordered a seafood salad and a chicken sandwich. The seafood salad had an amazing flavor and an excellent presentation. The chicken sandwich was also very impressive. It was a comforting delight to say the least. I will definitely return.
… moreAmber Wynne
I’ve been twice now. Once for Brunch and once for dinner and both times were fantastic! Can’t beat a $5 mimosa for brunch! All 6 of us at dinner loved our food. 3 had the pizza, and apparently the crust is top notch! Will definitely be back to try more off the menu
… moreSylvia Reiser
Before Theatre Aquarius we dine at this handy spot. While we have always enjoyed our meals, I had never tried the fish. It was excellent. If your a fussy fish lover, do visit when they have fish. S
… moreAndrea Gibson
My husband and I had the extreme pleasure of attending here a few weeks ago on a date night. What a hidden gem ! We had the mushroom gnocchi, duck, and a wonderful appetizer of prosciutto, fig jam, and brie with argula. The service was excellent, the meal was outstanding. The brother’s playlist was awesome in such a cool and quaint place. We will be back!
… moreSteve
Very tasty food, fantastic service and great atmosphere. I attended a private function (company/family party.) Everyone loved the food. Many guests ordered the mushroom gnocchi and found it excellent. Amazing desserts. Also, they make their own sourdough bread. On Sundays, parking is free (as of 2025) in the nearby municipal parking lot. Check the restaurant’s website if you are going for Sunday brunch as that may not be offered year-round. There is outdoor patio seating available when the weather is suitable.
… moreCathy Kang
I had lunch here with my friend and husband, and we enjoyed our experience. The food was tasty, and we enjoyed the discounted pizzas today (every Saturday). The aioli that came with the fries was excellent! I enjoyed the pizza, though I like a little more tomato sauce. It was a 14” so is great value. It was a great atmosphere, and I appreciated the excellent service. It got pretty busy so I was happy that we made reservations.
If I’m back in Hamilton again, I would gladly come back to try some of their other entrees.
… moreLeanne Stephenson
We have been to Seasoned several times now, both dinners and lunches. Our first dinner, three of us ordered different appetizers and mains in order to sample different flavours. Everything I ate was amazing!
We have enjoyed dining on the patio and and takeout since re-opening post-pandemic. The “Stage 2” menu is fun and well rounded. Always a great meal for lunch or dinner.
The newly renovated interior is very clean, and welcoming. The staff are knowledgeable and very friendly.
We will be back often! So happy to have this new establishment and dining option so close to my neighbourhood!
… moreStef and David Hill
Ordered delivery last night for the first time. Had never been here prior but very intrigued by a French Italian fusion, given they are 2 of our favorites. The mushroom gnocchi, chicken and fries were all stand outs. Given that we live a good 15-20min drive away we were not expecting everything to taste so Fresh. We will definitely be visiting in person soon to get the full experience.
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