Where can I get Mexican food that’s more authentic than fast food restaurants like Taco Bell, Mucho Burrito and Burrito Boys? Mex-I-Can! It’s located near the core of Hamilton Downtown, by Jackson Square. Inside, it’s spacious with old tables and chairs. Beautiful paintings of forests and landscapes liven up the authentic/aged decor. I visited on a weekend and the atmosphere was lively and the restaurant was busy.

107 James Street North, Hamilton  |  Facebook  |  Menu  |  Map

My brother told me about this restaurant when we were both in high school, so about 7ish years ago. I finally tried it out with my friends. We were seated by the window and our server came over with a basket of tortilla chips and salsa. The salsa was REALLY good, great little snack to munch on while we decided on what to order. The menu had a decent amount of dishes that were recognizable and a few that were authentic. I noticed that the dishes were a bit on the expensive side, which I didn’t expect because the look and feel of the restaurant was not fine dining.

I ordered the Chicken Flautas. Two crispy tortilla shells stuffed with chicken and topped with lettuce, salsa and sour cream. It’s also served with refried beans and rice. I was definitely full from this dish, couldn’t even finish my rice and beans. Everything tasted well together, but it was a little dry. Would’ve been amazing if there was a bit more salsa or tomato sauce to bring it together.

Michelle ordered the Burrito. This mother of a burrito was topped with salsa, lettuce, sour cream and feta cheese? Wutttt.. It was also drenched in tomato sauce, still looks delicious! It was MASSIVE, she couldn’t finish it either.

Emmeline ordered Tamales. Tamales are corn-based dough stuffed with meats and cheese, then wrapped with leaves and steamed. This dish was interesting, maybe too authentic for us. The taste and texture of the corn dough wasn’t familiar, so it wasn’t enjoyable.

Service was pretty good, they checked up on us often. It was pretty hot in there, especially because the window where the sun was shining down on us. I don’t care if they renovate it or not, the tables and chairs gave the place some character. But a renovation may justify the price of the food.

Other Mexican restaurants I need to try: Ole Gourmet, Che Burrito & Lounge, Poco Loco