The Cannon Coffee Co. (Hamilton)

*Hello there, what you are about to read is my super awkward and formal rating of this Brunch spot. I only decided to create this series of posts because I thought it would be something that I would actually use while trying to pick a place for brunch (I have terribly indecisive friends that have ruined me forever). In other words, I thought it would be useful. Please keep in mind that these are simply my opinions, I do not have any professional training in the area.. I also have little to no say in the amount of customers that come into any given establishment (Neither I, nor my blog, are that popular). *

What did I order?

I ordered a waffle made vegan with a side of seasonal berries.

Taste: 5/5

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I'm not really one for sweets, I usually tend to lean towards the more savoury side. But these waffles were AWESOME. They were fluffy and warm and they give you enough maple syrup to cover the whole thing. The waffles did have more of a "whole food" taste to them, but I like that a lot. I think it was due to the flax seeds in the waffles they use to replace the eggs..

Price: 5/5

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The price was really good for what you get! The waffle itself was only about 5$ and then the add on's cost extra. My whole meal was only about 7$. I liked that there was no difference in price between the vegan/gf option and the regular option. Usually vegan/gf food comes at a higher price or you have to pay just as much even when you are sub-ing out the animal products. 

Atmosphere/Presentation: 4/5

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The whole place had a really cozy feel to it. I wish there was more places to sit to avoid the inevitable wait time for a table, but it wasn't too bad. The windows at the front lit the whole restaurant and you could see directly into the kitchen. The chairs and tables were stylishly mix matched, and it all came together really nicely. The staff were super helpful and friendly. The meal also was beautifully presented when it came to us!

Overall Rating 4.5/5

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Although I have to been in the mood for a sweeter breakfast before coming here, I would definitely return for the atmosphere alone. The meal was light and not overwhelming, I always like to feel good and energetic while walking out of a restaurant... especially after brunch. Ready to take on a busy Saturday of errands. We will for sure be back here!

BRUNCH: Saint James (Hamilton)

Saint James (Hamilton)

* Hello there, what you are about to read is my super awkward and formal rating of this Brunch spot. I only decided to create this series of posts because I thought it would be something that I would actually use while trying to pick a place for brunch (I have terribly indecisive friends that have ruined me forever). In other words, I thought it would be useful. Please keep in mind that these are simply my opinions, I do not have any professional training in the area.. I also have little to no say in the amount of customers that come into any given establishment (Neither I, nor my blog, are that popular). *

What did I order?

The menu was written in large letters on a brown paper scroll hanging from the wall, which was pretty cool! I ordered the avocado on toast made vegan (without the cheese and egg).

Taste: 5/5

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I have to say, I have always loved avocado on toast! The combination of the pesto, lentils and roasted red peppers really gave this one a unique flavour. It almost had an Italian feel to it. It was AWESOME. Both me and my boyfriend knew we would be back again. 

Price: 3/5

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The price was pretty reasonable. If I remember correctly it was about 11$ for my meal. The only reason I gave it a mark off was because my meal was the same price as the non-vegan version. I got less food, but still had to pay the same price... They even give me a discount at subway because I don't order the cheese. ;)

Atmosphere/Presentation: 4/5

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The restaurant was brightly lit from the big windows at the font and beautifully decorated in a minimalist fashion. I am always a fan of bright and neutral spaces. It did feel a little cramped, due to lack of space. But that was the only concern in this department. The food was decently presented, no complaints here!

Overall Rating 4/5

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The taste really won me over and I loved the graphics on the take-away cups. Although it was a little cramped in the restaurant, it didn't take away from the overall comfort of my meal. I will be back for sure.

What I've Been Eating (Healthy)

I have actually been making an effort to eat healthier lately (gasp). On Monday I was inspired to go on my first health kick in months (maybe even a year). I've been feeling so fabulous and loosing weight. So I figured I would share with you all my little recipe(s) for success. ;)

For Breakfast I like to start off my day with either:
a) A smoothie (usually 3-4 bananas, spinach or another type of fruit)
b) Oats: I cook them with water or plant milk (soy or almond) and some frozen fruit (mangoes, bananas, or berries) - after i put some maple syrup on top and BAM! AMAZING.

For Lunch/Dinner I have
a) Rice and Steamed Veggies (Broccoli, Carrots, Cauliflower, and Spinach)
b) Chana Masala (I use the OhSheGlows recipe!)
c) Baked Potato and Salad (Dressing I use is 1 tbsp tahini, 2 tbsp lemon or lime juice and 2 tbsp soy sauce/liquid aminos-- it is BOMB, try it)
d) Potato Boats- I chop up potatoes and bake the bits at 345 for 30 mins (flipping every 10 mins) and then wrap them in lettuce - I usually eat these with ketchup and mustard!
e) Sushi Bowls- 1 part rice, 1 part spring mix, chopped veggies, sometimes tofu and soy sauce/liquid aminos

Nothing too exciting - but definitely yummy, healthy and satisfying!
Here are some pictures of some of my foods ::