Classic rock and roll plays through the speaker system, as you bask in the colourful décor and bright purple walls and sip your pink latte.
Where are you? Just on King Street East in the Hamilton International Village, at the latest café on the scene: Bohemian Palace Café.
On the corner of Walnut and King, the Bohemian Palace takes up quite a street footprint, and in a space that has just been begging to be filled. From Maxim’s Deli to Hillbilly Heaven, it has been empty for a few years now, despite the great location.
Inside, colourful décor will be the first thing to hit you. Almost every speck of the café is filled with bohemian vintage ephemera – from a carousel horse to embroidered lamp shades, Beatles decor and literally so much more. You could spend a good half hour just exploring their wall decorations.
The Bohemian Palace team says their café was inspired by many visits to San Francisco – and they aim to bring more of a down-to-earth approach to the dining scene in the city.
The Bohemian Café specializes in hot and cold drinks and basic eats like Breakfast Sandwiches, Lunch Sandwiches and Salads, with options for vegans and carnivores alike.
Favourite dishes with customers at the café so far have included their daily soups and large avocado toast.
With their low pricing, you could see how this café could become a new go-to for a freelance “coffice” and a study location. On their social media, they feature many off-menu drinks – from Rose Strawberry Lattes to “Bottom of the Bowl” cereal milk lattes and Frozen Strawberry Mint Lemonade.
They also have large tables, with free Wifi and sockets for charging your electronics.
If you’re looking for a less work-focused visit and more fun and games, the Bohemian Palace has board and card games around the restaurant…so bring a few friends! If you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax, they also have a little library that you’re allowed to borrow books from. According to their social media, you can bring your own books in to receive 10% off your order!
During the warmer months, they open up all their doors – allowing for some of that warm airflow through the café and adding to the overall Bohemian flair of the place.
Over the next few months, they will be hosting musicians, poets and performers in the space, becoming a community hub for the Hamilton International Village.
Bohemian Palace Café
202 King St E, Hamilton, ON L8N 1B4
HOURS
Sunday: 9am – 5pm
Monday – Saturday: 8am – 7pm