The Ship 23 Augusta Street
Shiver me timbers! Ok, I’m running out of nautical jargon, but with all of the Tall Ships Hamilton festivities, I declared this weekend to be nautical-themed. I unexpectedly ended up at The Ship on the Saturday night and decided to go back the next day to finally dig into their menu.
I’ve said before that I’m not a big meat-eater, beef in particular. Maybe it’s the summer, but I got it in my head that I really wanted a burger. The Ship launched their new summer menu and hours (now open at 1pm rather than the usual 3:30pm) and the Gourmet Burgers sounded too tasty not to try. If you don’t do beef, all can also be ordered as marinated chicken breast, veggie patty, or venison.
I chose The Mexican burger, which has cheddar, salsa, sour cream, avocado, tomato and lettuce. It was huge, and it was awesome. Sticking with the nautical theme, my friend Luisa went with the classic Lake Perch & Chips for her meal.
But before that, Luisa and I wanted to sample more of the menu by splitting an appetizer. I’ve tried the Popcorn Gator before, which was surprisingly tasty (considering you’re eating alligator!). The Ship is obviously known for its seafood, so we decided on the Crunchy Crab Cakes, which were made with blue crab, peppers, and spices, and served with chipotle lime mayo for dipping. Very tasty!
The Ship also has an incredible craft beer selection, even creating their own brew, “The Ship’s Rations.” We got a little festive for Canada Day weekend by sharing a pitcher of sangria.
The Ship is a small place but they have a patio out front and a cozy back patio too. The first floor has a few tables and the bar. Upstairs, it’s a fun lounge space with couches and chairs. And the best part – a foosball table. Of course, there is nautical decor everywhere you look. I dressed for the occasion in a blue and white striped ensemble.
If I can borrow a phrase by my friends, musicians Ben Somer and Matt Paxton, I know I’ll be back soon to get “Shipwrecked”!
– Kristin
