Limani on Hess — Restaurant in Hamilton

A Mediterranean Gem in the Heart of Hess – Limani Dazzles on Every Level

From the moment you step into Limani on Hess, you’re transported—not just to a restaurant, but to a celebration of flavour, warmth and impeccable hospitality. This beautifully renovated space, with its inviting patio and classic, stunning interior décor, strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort.

We began our meal with the grilled calamari, a dish that showcased the kitchen’s masterful restraint and precision. Smoky, tender and delicately seasoned, it was a testament to how simplicity, when done right, can be absolutely unforgettable. The grilled lamb followed—juicy, charred to perfection and rich with Mediterranean spices that danced on the palate. It’s a dish that deserves to be talked about citywide.

Cocktails were as refined as they were refreshing—each one balanced, vibrant and crafted with intention. And just when we thought Limani had revealed all its secrets, the baklava cheesecake arrived: a brilliant fusion of creamy decadence and crispy, honey-kissed phyllo layers. It’s a dessert that could easily win awards on its own.

But what truly elevates the experience at Limani is the people. Maria, the owner, is the heart of the place—warm, gracious and clearly passionate about every detail. Cecilia, our server, was a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day—effortlessly charming, attentive without ever hovering, and genuinely joyful in her service.

Limani on Hess isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience, a destination and a love letter to Mediterranean hospitality. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, do yourself a favour: make a reservation, come hungry, and prepare to...

I really, genuinely wanted this experience to be better than it was. Firstly, the food was just okay. Full disclosure, the vegan spanakopita was excellent, truly delicious, no notes. But the vegan pita was mid at best, which is also what my partner felt about his food (caviar, fried calamari dish). I really appreciate that the restaurant is trying with vegan options but a pita with hummus and veggies - the same salad that is then served on the side (minus the feta which differentiates it from the vegetarian version (side note, vegan feta exists)) is just such a low bar. I’ve been to Greece and every region had amazing naturally vegan food options and they were all so delicious.

I want our server to get his due - they’re were only two people working up front, there was a big party of people plus walk ins and he genuinely did his best. Yes, there was no host which made things awkward, yes we waiting longer for food because of this, but our server was attentive, came around often, was polite and efficient. He did a great job despite the restaurant being short staffed.

Now atmosphere…this is where things went sideways. Again, no host or host stand and the entrance is off to the side out of view of the main restaurant. The decor is beautiful, fun, all vibes. When it’s done (and this is the sticking point) it’s going to be a beautiful spot. In the meantime though, the AC wasn’t working but they closed all the windows, the bathroom doesn’t have a toilet paper holder of any kind or a paper towel dispenser. One corner of the restaurant had boxes and other paraphernalia (see pic) lying around….the restaurant is just unfinished and frankly should not be open...

So disappointing!!

I was always so excited to try this place because it looked so nice and had such high reviews, so I thought I’d give it a try.

I do have a large culinary and hospitality background so I will say the customer service was great and friendly but the food on the other hand…sad to say it was really bad…. I can’t do anything but leave an honest review so there it is.

I have had true, real, authentic Greek food from Greek family from Greece and this does NOT come close.

Very oily and salty. And overall made my stomach churn.

I’ve never had such poor quality Greek food before. Which is surprising because it looks really nice in online photos which is deceiving but it is really bad. I hope you can improve and wish you nothing but the best, but unfortunately I would never eat here again, nor would I ever recommend it to friends & family.

Chicken souvlaki dinner… very confusing. Authentically you would get nice, thick, juicy pieces of chicken on a kabob. But I just got a plate of tiny chopped up, dry, overcooked chicken. Was not good at all. The rice doesn’t even come close and the pita was hard instead of soft. Not enjoyable or even edible/chewable. Also why is it cut into little tiny triangles. Very confused.

Honestly, if you want GOOD Greek food my recommendation to you would be to head to Burlington and try Sotiris (on Harvester) or Nisi (which is on Lakeshore.) even Stoney Creek has a great family owned spot called Zakynthos.

Again, sorry for such a sad review but it was truly a disappointing experience food-wise and I was expecting a...