Chances are (hopefully) you’ve been to Valentino’s Restaurant before. It’s a staple in the city of Hamilton and has been for a long time. How long? Well, this weekend they are celebrating their 40th Anniversary.
The Westdale location was established in 1978, with a second location on the mountain added in 1985 that eventually moved to their current Stoney Creek location in 2012. Both restaurants are still owned and operated by the Spadafora family. Named after actor Rudolph Valentino, the restaurants have a cosy, welcoming atmosphere, making it an easy spot to unwind and enjoy a meal with friends and family.
They’ll be offering “Way Back” specials this weekend only when they have their 40th Anniversary and I was lucky enough to try some of the dishes featured.
For a beverage it was the Rubino, a cocktail made with Campari, triple sec, blood orange San Pellegrino, and soda. The ruby colour of the drink is to commemorate 40 years. It was sweet and went down easy.
Next came the bruschetta for the appetizer. Each piece was crispy, flavourful, and loaded with grilled red peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. The balsamic glaze makes everything that much better.
For the main it was Stuffed Peppers filled with ground beef, rice, mozzarella cheese, and home-made tomato sauce. Though only two, they’re all you need. So filling. Its like something Nonna would make. Every bite had the perfect amount of ground beef and a nice compliment of cheese.
When it was dessert time, there’s only one option (for me): The Sicilian Cannoli. Arguably the best in the city, this cannoli is like heaven in a thin, powdery crispy pastry shell. Stuffed with rich ricotta, and chocolate chips, there is no better way to end your meal at Valentino’s. Except maybe gelato. That works too.
Valentino’s will be hosting an Open House to celebrate their 40th Anniversary this Saturday, April 7th at both their Westdale and Stoney Creek locations. Visit them from 12:00PM – 2:00PM for some complimentary slab pizza and cake. Their special menu items will also be available all weekend long.
Here’s to another 40 years of delicious Italian eats and of course, the Cannoli.
Valentino’s
824 King St W, Hamilton, ON L8S 1K3
(905) 523-4240
and
835 Paramount Dr, Stoney Creek, ON L8J 0B4
(905) 385-3284
Hours
Sunday to Thursday – 11AM to 10PM
Friday & Saturday – 11AM to 11PM
Website | Facebook | Instagram
