Been here a few times with friends, its a cozy place.

Food: The first time I came I had the steak & fries. The steak was nothing special, neither were the fries. It was a good tasting meal but nothing exceptional. The second time I dined in, I had a bowl of the braised beef quinoa soup (I'm not a health junkie, but quinoas not that bad). It was also good, but nothing super special about it. I... more

I went here for lunch today and I have to say, I'm definitely a fan!

Service: Great! Our waitress was quick and attentive, and brought out menus as soon as we were seated. She also came to check up on us during lunch, making sure that our water was filled. Food also came out quite quickly, maybe 5 min after we ordered.

Food: I ordered the veggie chilli, which is one of my favorite cold winter... more

This place is actually pretty good. Service and servers are good and friendly. Great afternoon date spot!

Walking into Bean Bar, it was like a fusion of restaurant and bar. Though most places call these pubs, Bean Bar is more on the restaurant side, so I'll decide to call it a fusion of the two!

I got the mussles appetizers. It came with pieces of toast bread as well. My bread was a little burnt, but the non burnt parts tasted DE - LI - SCIOUS. There were about 30 mussles in here and all of this... more

Came here for dinner with my friend on a Saturday evening. We LOVED the food and our server was excellent - he was very personable, efficient and had close attention to detail.

First of all, a pint of delicious Amsterdam was only $5.50 which is a great price.

We ordered the calamari appetizer and wow, highly recommend! It was served with a delicious chipotle mayo and hot sauce. Would... more

Mmmm...sloppy joe grilled cheese! And delicious fries on the side. I just wish they didn't charge $4 for a side of fries with the sandwich. But that grilled cheese was so creamy and succulent and just fabulous. I am eager to return and try some more of their menu!

Been there a few times. Calamari was great. And service was fantastic even though they were packed as they usually are. I ALSO think the open windows are worth a mention as sitting at the barstool style seats facing outside with no windows was a real treat on a summer day. Definitely get some of their deserts too.

Our table got the lamb as well as fish and chips. The batter and the fish was soggy and tasted like chlorine. The lamb was absolutely repulsive; extremely sinewy and cold and looked like something you'd serve to your dog. The margarita was disgustingly sweet and tasted like there was no alcohol.

The server never came by once to see how our meal was and at the end when he remarked about how... more

Great service and yummy food but reaaaally kinda expensive for what it is.

I used to come to Bean Bar a lot but haven't been in a few years and I'm glad I came back today. This place really has something for everyone. The menu is so diverse, making it a great restaurant for groups because everyone is bound to find something that suits their tastebuds here. I came here with three others tonight and we all thoroughly enjoyed our meals.

We started off with the Beer... more

I had lunch at the Bean Bar on King Street S.

It was quiet when I got there at noon but packed up really quickly.

I ordered the Crispy Chicken Breast Sandwich with chipotle mayo and Roasted Mini Potatoes. The sandwich and the potatoes were delicious! I ended up leaving about half the potatoes because there was so much food.

Natasha was my server. She was friendly and took excellent care of me.

Amazing food. Amazing selection. A touch in the pricey side, but we were able to find stellar options for everyone in our group. Would recommend and would definitely visit again!

Been coming here for 13 years I think. Best value around and best mid priced, casual eatery this end of the 905. We beg for them to open another location in Burlington. The restaurant gets 5 stars because I've been so many times, at all times of operating hours, had most of the menu, and it is consistently a great experience.

Sweet potato fries are the very best. Without exception. Ever. So... more

It really is grilled cheese from heaven.....<3

So I don't normally order grilled cheese from a restaurant...it's something I make at home for my kids all the time. But someone recommended I try the grilled cheese at the bean bar and OMG I'm so glad I did. There is a generous serving of grilled cheese (three sandwich halves) on the most lovely sour dough bread, loaded with... more

Found on Yelp, unsure why it is called bean bar (coffee themed, but no) and why the tag line is "lifestyle restaurant" (what does that mean?). It was easy to know what this place was, once we arrived. The decor is dark, with oversized rough metal sconces sparsely spaced on blank walls, screaming an attempt at a trendy night spot. And the size of the bar compared to the lack of quality of the... more

One of the best

The Bean Bar is by far one of my favourite restaurants in Hamilton. Located in the trendy Westdale area, the Bean Bar offers great value for your money. Food is always delicious and their cheesecake is some of the best. Great restaurant for dinner or late night coffee and dessert.

I've stopped into The Bean Bar a few times over the last five years. It was originally introduced to me as having the best Grilled Cheese in Hamilton. Truth be told, I can't argue that point even to this day. However, that's where my praise ends.

I've found the service to range from tolerable to abysmal. My last visit resulted in me waiting 15 minutes for someone... anyone to come by. Just as... more

Beer battered Brie - O-M-G

We thought we would try an app before dinner and that's all we talked about the rest of the night ... Delicious!! The frozen cocktails were very good too! Lots to choose from. great service but fairly expensive ... I'd go again :-)

Multiple visits

We had dinner here on multiple visits and I have to give it an average rating unfortunately as on some of the occasions, they food was pretty bleahhh.
Some of the salads we had were good, their Moroccan stew delicious but it seems that their cook can't cook pasta at all. I understand it is a bistro and the pasta... more

A quirky and delicious "date" spot

For years, my partner has visited Bean Bar and spent many university days sitting at a table studying or sketching with some sweet potato frites and a Bean Bar chai latte in hand... Years later, once we met, he introduced me to the cuisine, hospitality and character of Bean Bar and it is now a place we frequent every time... more

Always a good meal

We have been here several times. The food is always good. They have seasonal specials that are nice to try. Th desserts are amazing if you have room.
The service is pretty good but it does tend to be younger service people.
The only complaint is the wine prices are a bit high.
It can seat a small or large... more

My best culinary experience in Hamilton

Really a nice place in Westdale. Whereas it does not seem big from the outside, it is actually quite large so that there is enough place. The food is really good and fresh, and the menu is huge! Amazing sweet potatoes, awesome grilled sandwiches, and really, really nice service. A great selection of cakes too, a waiter will be happy... more

Public service review for your safety

THIS IS A PUBLIC SERVICE REVIEW.
DO NOT eat at the Bean Bar unless you plan on not using the washroom facilities.
One of the bartenders/ servers at the bean bar(named Delaney) HAS GENITAL HERPES. THERE IS NO STAFF BATHROOM, the management refuses to deal with this issue, AND IN TURN THE ENTIRE PUBLIC IS PUT AT RISK.
PEOPLE NEED... more

Bean Bar Hits the Spot

First of all ... do not go to the Bean Bar starving because they offer an extensive menu and it WILL take you some time to decide on what you will try!
The sweet potato fries, truffle fries and baked brie appetizers are amazing. Although we have sampled a pasta dish and several of the sandwiches, we have to say... more

Still my favourite

I have been a returning customer at Bean Bar for about 3 years. Whenever my friends and I or boyfriend and I want a quality meal and drink it seems to be our go to place. They have an excellent menu and delicious specials, and the staff is always friendly and knowledgeable. Located right next to the historically old movie... more

Amazing food ! Been there multiple times with friends! Great service... Slightly expensive but the portions are huge therefore worth your money. Food is great quality, fresh and absolutely delicious.

The food is not worth the service

I lived in Hamilton for a long time, and I used to go to this restaurant only to see how terrible the service could get. Granted, it's a busy place, but the service is so awful that if you have a good sense of humor it can actually turn into a fun event. My friend and I once waited two... more

Convenient location, ok food

The location is very good. The food is good, although I would not define it exceptional. Great salads. Attentive service. The menu offers really a lot of choices. The value for money is good.

Not impressed with food- not worth

We had an expensive dinner here last night, and we were disappointed by the fact that the disappointing food was not worth the big bucks. First, my water smelled bad. I honestly don't know if it was my cup, or if the smell is normal for the water in the area, or if there was something wrong with the water... more

Price-y but Tasty

The Bean Bar is a coffee house in trendy Westdale. It seems to be popular with the university students. The menu is pretty much upscale coffee shop. They have some interesting entrees as well as the usual sandwiches. All ok to very, but none really warrant the prices. The desserts are another story. While again pricey, they range from merely... more

Good little restaurant in Westdale

Good food great location, close to the Westdale Theater, trendy food all served beautifully with generally very good servers.
Have eaten there many times and will continue to go there, try it you will be pleased.

My first time to visit Bean Bar. This restaurant was opened till very late and we had cocktails there. The Funky Monkey tasted so good, which looked like a cup of milkshake, but actually with strong alcohol.

Service ruined it

We ordered a salad first followed by moules frites as a second course. Our second course arrived two bites into the salad. (We were told no matter what, the next course comes 7mins after the first course is prepared.) The waitress rolled her eyes when we said we were not ready for it, as they would get cold while we... more

Expensive

I m not too sure how a student would be able to afford this menu. Average meal is about $14-$20.
Its not the best quality food for the price they list on their menu.
Heres what we ordered and the reviews:
*Steak with potato & veg: steak was dried out, did not look like a $25 steak, which you pay... more

Never again

I wanted to go somewhere great tonight with my kids - but there is no kids' menu and the portion sizes are skimpy especially for the price - while the food is tasty, the service wasn't great and seriously, 7 pieces of pasta for $14!

Good place to take your MacMaster student

Been here several time with our Mac student over the last 4 years.
The style is very student friendly and convent.
It has been consistently good. My favourite is the T burger and sweet potato fries.
The vegan chill is also good. My wife had all the salads which are large and fresh.
There is a great desert display, with... more

Excellent food, wonderful atmosphere

Went to the Bean Bar last week with a group of friends. We each ordered completely different meals but everyone enjoyed them immensely. The service was quite good, very friendly. The overall atmospher was very enjoyable. Cozy and fun to just hang out. Highly recommend this place in Westdale area.

ouch

How are they still open? Busy place but service was laughable, server was dirty with food, forgot several items and food was not fresh. Place is worn except chairs were new. No appeal, and not cheap. For that price I should have went to place next store 1010 Bistro.

Favourite local restaurant

This is my go-to restaurant for lunch during the work week and my 16 year old, vegetarian daughter's favourite restaurant anytime. Always fabulous food. I repeat, fabulous. Try the potato bread - to die for. The old cheddar and apple grilled cheese on multi-grain with bacon. Wonderful. Obviously run by foodies who love what they do. The owner(s) are often... more

This restaurant has a lovely atmosphere. While I would say the food is just okay, the cakes are really good. Ask for the cake tour and they'll walk you through all the different kinds of cakes they have.

Always Fantastic Food

The Bean Bar has become one of those places I can count on whenever I am in West Hamilton. Today, my mother and I grabbed an early dinner and were completely satisfied with our choices: the French Onion soup was cheesy and hot and my mom's grilled cheese sandwich was the same. I am always impressed with the creative menu... more

Food was "alright", but dessert was good

The atmosphere and furnishings are definitely nice, and the waiters were quite friendly. The food wasn't as great as we expected, and the portion sizes were rather small. Service was very slow, despite only a few people dining in that night. I probably wouldn't come back if it wasn't for their broad selection of cakes, which were surprisingly delicious.

Disappointing Experience

Went here for lunch with friend I had not seen for years, in March or April 2013 on a Saturday afternoon. The table we were seated at was too small to be comfortable. The service was friendly, but VERY slow. We felt the food was overpriced for what it was. Overall we were disappointed, which was too bad, because we... more

Nice atmosphere; food not worth it

We recently went to the Bean Bar for lunch. We hadn't been in a couple of years and remembered it fondly. Nice interior and welcoming staff did not make up for the food. While the To Die For sandwich was good, the Rustic Greek Salad was a complete rip off at $15. It was a small plate of rough chopped... more

Great for a casual evening out

The Bean Bar is located close to the University so you get a lot of younger people here. Usually busy so it has a 'happening vibe' going on.
The french onion soup is excellent as are any of the salads. My wife and i usually share a large salad and each have the onion soup. it is one of our... more

Pleasant and innovative

We had a group of 11 people so we sat at the large round table near the back of the restaurant. Every person in our group enjoyed their selection, the food is fresh and there are things that are a little different on the menu. Lots of good choices of various beers too.
The large round table is good for... more

My girlfriend and I used to like coming here when we used to go to school at McMaster. It was a bit pricy, but it was a cool place to hang out after a week of studying (we usually went on the weekend). I always remember the food was good and they had a wide selection of cakes. Sometimes we had to wait for a table, but it was never too long even though people do like to hang out here. This place... more

went downhill

I started university at McMaster in 2008 and around that time bean bar was awesome. Great service and the food was always great. Over the past few years ive found the quality in food go down a lot, its never really that fresh. Also their food tends to be extremely salty.
The staff that were there a few years ago... more

Nice Atmosphere, Friendly Staff, Good Food

Our family of 4 dined at the Bean Bar recently and thoroughly enjoyed the outing. The atmosphere was pleasant, the staff were friendly and efficient. The selection of beer and wine was very good and the selection of food was awesome.
The burgers are big and juicy but there are lots more fancier food than burgers. Leave room for dessert... more

always a favourite

amazing sweet potatoe fries and French onion soup.
go for lunch or an early dinner to beat the crowds.
will always be m go to!

Hang Out

It has very delicious pastries and good food. I find myself there quite often. Sometimes the service can be slow due to the big crowds.

Good food, nice atmosphere

I hadn't been to the Bean Bar in years because I never thought the food was that good but we ended up eating there after the theatre and the food was definitely above average. They have a very large menu that runs all day so you can have full meals or sandwiches throughout the day. The salads were very fresh... more

I've just returned from my third trip to Bean Bar and each time I have left completely satisfied. The food is delicious and consistent. The curry chicken and french onion soup are excellent and my boyfriend and I agree that the Canatriciana with gnocchi is one of the best meals we've ever had. The sandwiches are as described - the "To Die For" didn't live up to its name, it was heavy and rather... more

Just had my first visit today--yes, the sweet potato fries were really great, but I can't help but bug my eyes out when $10 (on average) sandwiches and wraps don't automatically come with fries at lunchtime. Just throw in some regular fries for free, and then I'd gladly pay a few bucks to upgrade to the premium option. I had the ham and maple cranberry wrap; it was decent, but sounded much... more

the best spot in West Dale

i lived and worked in the area for sometime and the Bean Bar was my go-to spot for a nice meal after a hectic week
the food is always amazing and the service is wonderful.
the martinis are delightful and reasonably priced.
every time i am lucky enough to be back in the area i like to pop by and... more

If only the food had been like this on our vacation

Friends we had met while on vacation in Honduras, invited us to have dinner with them this past weekend. They took us to the Bean Bar, and it was obvious from the beginnin that the volume not only of people at the door, but the laugther and friendliness on the inside that we were in for a wonderful evening. There... more

Casual atmosphere, great food and service

The Bean bar is located in the Westdale area of Hamilton right next to the Westdale Theatre and not far from McMaster University.
The food is excellent, the bean bar salad and french onion soup are two of my favourites, and the deserts are worth every calorie in them - delicious.
Great place to go before the show or just... more

Always dependable

We love this place after theatre on a Sat night as Hamilton shuts down and this place is usually full. The sandwiches are wonderful as are the dessert choices.

Chill place to hang out. I like the vibe. The food is all right but can be pricey, especially if you're a student. Easily accessible in westdale. Sometimes hard to find parking in front so it's probably a better idea to park in residential streets nearby and then walk.

Delectable experience

Bean Bar is an awesome little bar in West Hamilton area - it is always filled with people who enjoy easy-going atmosphere and great food. Everything we tried was top-notch, and the desserts were incredible.

Food ok - service poor

It surprised me to learn that you can't have your pie heated, even if you ask. When the waiter didn't know why he 'wasn't allowed' to warm my pie, the owner blamed him for his 'poor' customer management. Her lack of flexibility was apparently not an issue. I won't eat here again. There is nothing terrible about the food in... more

So so on our visit. Has potential

Just hit the mark as slightly above average on our visit. Nothing you could put a finger on, but the visit was the equivalent of the car built on a Friday ... nothing really awful but a lot of things could have been just that much nicer ... warmer coffee, buns less dried out, lettuce a little crisper ... more

Good food - always packed

This is a great little place - everyone, including myself, seems to be happy with each visit to the Bean Bar. If you are looking for a quiet place to have a relaxing meal - look elsewhere. This place is always busy and I think sometimes a bit too loud! The food, however, never disappoints!
On my most recent visit... more

Right near Mac
Love their sweet potato fries and their desserts....... ahh come on now!!! Way too good

Great food

Love this place! The selection on the menu is so unique and there is something for everyone. As a vegetarian I love having a number of choices from which to choose. It is a busy place at meal time and can be a bit noisy then so early and late meals are my preference.

Great place for dessert and drinks

the Bean Bar has the best selection of desserts around and great acoustic/jazzy live music on the weekend nights.
Have only ordered meals a few times, but food has been solid as well.

Small portions

If you are super hungry, go elsewhere. The portions are small and no sides included. Manager argued about the portion size.

Overpriced and stingy portions

Portions are small and prices are high, nothing comes with a side unless you pay extra for it. Had to purchase fries for $5 extra and the sandwiches don't even fill a 100lb girl. When I brought up the lack of sustenance to a manger in a friendly way he decided to just argue with me and tell me it's... more

Used to be Great

This was always my 'go to' place in Westdale......but lately, the prices have gone WAY up and the food quality down. We pass it by now because there's so many alternatives!

Great food, good service, but a little pricey. They charge for sides which is not really normal

I like the atmosphere. I've had some incredible waitresses here. The food is great but they have no entrees on their late night menu. Went with a lady friend and she mentioned the wine list is limited. We will be going back but more for a night out not just an everyday eatery.

nothing special

there was nothing particularly wrong about the food here, but nothing particularly great either. It was all just average.

Late evening supper

Charming and full of atmosphere. Excellent food and a rather unique menu. Busy but not overly noisy. You can stop for coffee and dessert, or drinks, a full meal. Or a late night supper after a football game like we did for a delicious grilled sandwich and a beer or wine. Excellent food. We will definitely go again.

casual but elegant and just what you need

never disappoints. nacho fan? try them, you should not be let down and cakes for days. unique eclectic menu items that hit the spot!

This place is great. It's eclectic, funky, artsy, trendy and holy s@!t! It actually has good food. Yup, great sandwiches and a great lineup of taps on the bar. Decent service and really comfortable seating. If only they cleaned and dusted the place at least once and awhile!!! We'll continue to come for a little longer as I've made friends with the dust ball in the corner on the upper deck. Say... more

I love the food here! Although it is quite pricey, everything was amazingly delicious. They have a pretty decent sized menu and many of their selections were very creative and fun, such as their Mango Chutney on naan bread with melted brie cheese. Another one of their amazing dish was the veal, they definitely have the best veal I've ever tasted, it was cooked to perfection and it was very... more

Best chicken curry in town! Great place to take friends for dinner; great service, great food. Always a positive experience! If you are in town, you HAVE to stop by!

If you're looking for awesome sandwiches, look no further!

I was really impressed with this restaurant. We came here for a meal on Sunday and couldn't believe how much we liked the bar. Our server, Lauren M was a fantastic with honest answers to our questions about the food (which was very refreshing), great advice about what to get and really friendly, smiley and just overall pleasant.

We... more

I took my girlfriend here after a trip to the Royal Botanical Gardens and she loved it so much that she kept begging me to take her again (and I will!). The food was delicious and filling. The waiter was friendly. I spent a solid $75 but it was worth it. We got 2 dishes, appetizer and 2 drinks. We were both full and couldn't finish our food. They packed it for us. Oh, and by the way, there's a... more

again, absolutely great spot to sit and dine and have a beer and chat with friends...and today's lunch was extra special! great service and great burger (try The Loner if you like blue cheese on top, eh!)....

Jim

Would agree with most of the posts here..great place. The drunken bruschetta is outstanding. Love the sweet potato fries. My favorite is the curry chicken...incredible taste. Everything seems to be very fresh and the atmosphere is very casual, relaxed and friendly. A family favorite and a place I take friends from out of town

Love the burgers - done MY way!

Rreally noisy when crowded - which is everyday.

Found it overpriced with no real value a couple pieces of cheese cake (not even a great cheese cake more like whipped)
and a couple of drinks created a bill a little over 50 bucks not counting tip
Over rated hang out!!!!!

I like observing people on their first/second dates, and this place didn't disappoint.

Pretty extensive martini menu, casual (very young) staff, and what seems like a very loyal clientele.

My first martini tasted like a Battery Acid-colada and so I sent it back. No problem, she took it away, seemed to understand my desire to hang onto my stomach lining, and brought me back another drink of my... more

Best restaurant in Westdale (and most of Hamilton) to grab a bite. And I'm fairly sure they offer the most delicious sweet potato fries in the city...GTA...beyond...

Bean Bar has a wicked atmosphere, relaxed staff, and delicious (and extensive) martini list. I've never had anything but a wonderful experience there, and I've been a return customer for almost 6 years now.

The food is ALWAYS... more

A great location for McMaster students in the great community of Westdale - with many food options in a small area this my be top.

The atmosphere is fantastic and the service could be faster, but it's nothing to complain about.

The food is excellent and you've gotta try the sweet potato fries!

Might be a little over priced, but you pay for the food quality.

awesome food, cool environment and great service. one of my favourite restaurants in hamilton

Great food - their sweet potato fries are fantastic, as are their salads. The cakes are second to none - i love the cookie monster cake, the pieces are huge (I highly recommend sharing)! And of course they are conveniently located in westdale - just a stones throw from Mac!

Neighbourhood bistro

The Bean Bar is a local – great place to have a tasty lunch that’s three steps up from the franchises in the neighbourhood. Reasonable prices. For some, a hangout for a coffee and pastry or a drink or two with friends at the bar. Bean Bar has tried to capture all bases and does a pretty good job of it!I always enjoy an individual pizza and accompanying salad at lunch. If you’re really hungry... more

Yummy food

My third visit to this restaurant. They have great food. Not to be missed - sweet potato fries and their Roque n' Beef salad. Amazingly decadent desserts and coffee. Near the university. Love this restaurant. I took a friend who recently moved to Hamilton from Toronto and she was very relieved that there are decent non-chain restaurants.