Reservations Required!

I would have never found this little hole in the wall diner or even known there was such a thing if I hadn't been watching the Food Network and seen it on one of the shows.  Being it was in Hamilton and only 45 mins away I knew I would have to try it.  I was in the near neighbourhood this weekend and decided to stop by 486 James St. N..  We arrived at 4:30 maybe 5pm and were greeted by a smaller than expected kitschy seating area.  There were already no tables available and all were reserved so we bellied up to the bar which is actually 4 stools at a counter overlooking the bar, dessert and service area.  I was a little out of sorts that they store pre portioned, precooked pasta and extra gravy in the fridge out front for all to see.  All I could think is it must be a pretty small kitchen if that is where you store prepped food.  I had a virgin caesar and my guest a Coke (no fountain pop here).  We ordered the escargot to start and were unprepared for the unusual presentation (not the usual dish with individual escargot covered in mushroom, cheese and garlic butter) but a fist sized portion of escargot atop a portabellini mushroom surround by 3 garlic toasts for $7....great value and as good as any escargot I have had previously.  I ordered the meatloaf for dinner and as I expected from the food network program it was delicious, again the portion size was generous (2 half inch thick pieces of meatloaf on a mound of mashed potatoes with sauteed onions and mushrooms all dripping in a red wine gravy.....very yummy and I have some for lunch tomorrow too.  My guest had the feature which was a turkey pot pie in a good sized casserole type dish with a rectangular puff pastry perched above it served with a green salad....he ate every bite but that didn't leave either of us room for dessert.  They had a selection of homemade pies that I am sure were as delicious as they looked from our front row seat.  Next time I am looking for a good homecooked type meal in a laid back atmosphere in Hamilton I know where to go.  Our whole bill was $43.00 plus tip so by no means the kind of place that will break you.  I would definitely make reservations next time as I could see myself being disappointed and unable to get a seat if I don't.  They are also open for breakfast and lunch.  For more information go to   http://www.harbourdiner.com/.