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Curated Collection

541 Eatery & Exchange

541 Eatery & Exchange: Where your morning coffee supports a vital community exchange in Hamilton's Barton Village.

Explore

Dining at 541 Eatery & Exchange is an experience rooted in powerful community action. This space, housed in a beautifully repurposed bank building, immediately greets you with an open, bright atmosphere that speaks to its mission of inclusion. The air hums with the quiet energy of neighbours connecting over wholesome, affordable fare, setting a tone that is simultaneously historic and deeply contemporary. It is a destination where every purchase directly fuels crucial support for the Barton Street East community.

Plan Your Visit

Address

541 Barton St E, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8L 2Z2

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Curated Experience

(01)

Communal Seating

Heavy wood tables encourage sharing space and conversation.

(02)

Wholesome Fare

Menu focuses on affordable, homemade food using locally sourced ingredients.

(03)

Barrier-Free Design

The space is intentionally designed to be inclusive and welcoming to all mobility levels.

(04)

Detour Coffee

They proudly serve coffee sourced from renowned local roaster, Detour Coffee.

Must Try

Egg & Cheese Sandwich

$5

The essential lunchtime staple—perfectly constructed on an English muffin.

Full Breakfast

$8

The biggest plate for the best value, offering a comprehensive, hearty start.

Brownie

$4

You would never guess this decadent treat is both vegan and gluten-friendly.

Essential Offerings (All Day Menu Focus)

Breakfast/Lunch

Full Breakfast

$8

Two eggs, bacon, potatoes, toast.

Egg Sandwich

$4

Two eggs, English muffin, mayo.

BLT (Regular)

$5

Classic bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayo.

Tuna Salad Melt

$6

Tuna salad grilled with cheese.

Chicken Salad Sandwich (Regular)

$6

House-made chicken salad.

Roast Potatoes

$3

Seasoned and roasted potatoes.

Black Bean Quesadilla

$4 / $5

Vegan base, add cheese for one dollar more.

Coffee

Daily Brew (Large)

$3

Regular drip coffee using Detour beans.

Latte (Large)

$5.50

Espresso and steamed milk.

Bakery

Chocolate Chip Cookie

$2.50

A classic, satisfying cookie.

THE VIBE.

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Social Enterprise Model

The entire operation is built around a powerful Pay-It-Forward 'Button' System. Paying customers purchase buttons equivalent to $1.00, which are then redeemed by neighbours needing assistance toward any meal on the menu, ensuring accessibility regardless of financial status.

01

Commitment to Mutuality

Their purpose centers on cultivating a community of mutuality where hospitality and belonging are paramount. This commitment extends to supporting local youth programming, educational initiatives, and employment workshops through the café’s revenue.

02

Architectural Heritage

The physical space itself contributes to the unique ambiance, being successfully adapted from a former Bank of Montreal branch. This history lends itself to the high ceilings and open layout that defines the bright interior.

03

Frequently Asked Questions

They utilize a Pay-It-Forward 'Button' system. Customers purchase buttons ($1 each) which are placed in a bank for anyone in need to redeem for meals, fostering mutual support.

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