541 Eatery & Exchange in Hamilton

They are always friendly. Love the mission and we are happy to help anyway we can.

Food

Highly recommend the chicken salad sandwich w/ cheese, and the iced tea!

Enjoy your breakfast or lunch and support your community. You can buy buttons that people can redeem for meals or drinks. A great concept of giving back with dignity.

541 eatery is the best eatery in town i would not go anywhere else but here they are so polite and very helpful

Part of the community. Best sandwiches and great staff.

Rob has a heart for serving. Known 541 since 2018 or so. Miss Marnie. Some staff are lacking lived experience and are on a power trip with tone and insincere manner. Perhaps uncomfortable. Food quantity is changing with costs, and Rainbow Flag reflects Anglican leaning, denominations of staff, volunteers, perhaps funding.

I have been relying on food banks and various food programs in Hamilton and as much as I appreciate them, they have all been unsafe and I even got food poisoning a couple weeks ago from it. It has really put me in a worse position I feel. Someone told me about 541 eatery yesterday and we met here today and I swear to god this place is a breath of fresh air for anyone needing to eat but wants to feel normal. This place is setup like a really nice coffee shop. Not a single person there (employee or guest) was rude or had any issue. The place has a very good vibe. I got an egg breakfast sandwich and it was only $4! I could have gotten a full breakfast for $8. This is now my go to spot for grabbing breakfast or lunch. Once I get a job back and am in a better spot, I will still come here as a paying customer and even pay everything forward and help keep it running. If anyone is wondering how it works... if you visit and are not able to afford food, dont be ashamed. They have a jar at the front counter full of clothing buttons. Each button is worth $1. Just grab a few buttons and your meal is covered. Thats it. I swear, every other food bank and food program in Hamilton should take notes from this place. Night and day difference. These guys know how to run a successful helpful business. Thank you.

I treated my bo

Excellent value for the money. Great food, really good prices

Impressive and just shocked by the quality and hospitality. Awesome place to support and will definitely go back.

One of our cities hidden gems! Come see why! May 25th...just had the best Tuna Salad Sandwich I have ever had the pleasure eating!! 541 gas it nailed down tight when it comes to fresh, wholesome fare with a staff you just cant beat!!

An amazing place to grab breakfast or lunch super friendly great service. Always welcomed with a smile. Dietary restrictions: Gluten free, halal and vegetarian options are available

My new favourite non-for-profit. Not only is the food delicious, it feels great to give back to a good cause. Make sure to donate some buttons!

Drop by and enjoyed a great sandwich for $6. Sat with Alberto and enjoyed a good conversation. Love the button jars and paying it forward. Welcoming and caring staff. It s about Kinship as explained in Gregory Boyle s book Barking to the Choir

Always friendly and respectful...

Cant say enough about this place. They are a pillar of the community. We need more people to open up businesses that benefit the community The same way these guys do.

Amazing food great service come one come all...the staff make it feel like being in Cheers

Hello this was my first time being at 5:41 Barton but I certainly wont be my last the food is excellent and the volunteers that are amazing and what this place stands for is Godly its amazing yeah if youre looking for a great place to eat and share 541 button bless you guys

Great place my wife is gluten free and they served us a great breakfast i like the button system for the less fortunate we donated $10 today toward it keep up the good wor Dietary restrictions: Gluten free options

Awesome place and does a ton for Hamilton and addictions as well as mental health lets give it up to em. God bless you all thar work their and the one who go their as well... yay 541 heaven n god would be and are proud of all you guys do. Love yeah.

I had never stopped here before. I was downtown with the kids today so I decided to stop in. I googled it and they had gluten-free options which is something I need. The food came quick and looked really good. Unfortunately, my daughter s breakfast sandwich was made with mayonnaise and we weren t aware of that. I felt bad when the lady came over, and I mentioned something to her, it wasn t their fault, but I was willing to order another breakfast sandwich and pay for it and they stepped up and remade the sandwich without even a question. Like I said, it was an oversight by both us, and the lady taking our order. But regardless they made that sandwich, and did it with a smile. I was beyond happy, the customer service was top-notch. They didn t have to remake the sandwich, but they did, and for that I give this place two thumbs up. The food was actually really good as well. We ll definitely go back. I just felt I needed to give them a shout out especially since that sandwich cost them money. Great job guys extremely happy. I hope this place stays around for a while. Customer service at it finest.

Went on Friday morning to pick up a gluten-free sandwich and cookie. Staff were very friendly, the sandwich was very good. I am so pleased that they are helping the community. I waited at a table and it was nice to see people playing board games.

Delicious food, welcoming and friendly service, and an opportunity to give back to those who need it the most! If you re looking to grab a quick breakfast or lunch, this is the place to go to. They have sandwiches, wraps, salads and soups, as well as freshly baked muffins and cookies. You can also buy buttons that can then be used by customers in need to get a meal as well. The breakfast sandwich is my favourite but you can t go wrong with any of their dishes

Wheelchair accessibility: There is a door with a ramp Food

Such a great place with great food. Hopefully they get indoor seating going again soon!

A warm welcoming inclusive place for EVERYONE! The coffee is fantastic and the food delicious! The scones and brownies incredible!! They also have a button system so someone can purchase/donate buttons to inturn help someone else in need pay for their meal. It doesnt get much better!

This is one of the best concepts the food is awesome the staff top notch prices super cheap a brilliant idea on feeding the homeless children and customers Peterborough Ont needs a place like this a place that is safe and comforting very impressed with the button program all around a 10 out of 10 for me

Never in my life had I been given food for buttons only to be treated with such compassion and kindness. I was served some of the best damn pancakes Id ever eaten and spoken to like a human being. this place is a gem. I defy anybody to go and find all these qualities at your nearest fast food franchise. I guarantee you wont find anything that compares to what I have just described and you will pay more than the food is worth not only in cost but in terms of health, quality, overall satisfaction.541 is deserving of a sixth star and many thanks, yall made my day go from bad to hopeful. Thanks for the coffee and pancakes they were amazing and so is your business.

Such a great place to meet friends and eat. Staff are super friendly and helpful. Also the button program is such a great idea and system.

Brunch is on! We had THE BEST sandwiches! 5* Yummiest grilled cheese (bacon, caramelised onions, apple butter with white cheddar) and Chipotle breakfast sandwich (arugula, bacon, cheddar, egg, with chipotle mayo). Bacon was optional in both of those sandwiches. Coffee 5* was delicious, brewing beans from Detour. We ordered americanos and enjoyed them thoroughly. Dine-in has resumed (but still serving in takeout containers). Accessible space: There s lots of room to move people and mobility aids around between tables, or to sit at the big table in the middle. Add a donation for the pay-it-forward (jar of buttons as tokens for guests who are short on money). You can also make a button donation online.

Found this place through yelp while searching for breakfast places in Downtown Hamilton. I didn t know it was a place that gives back to the community, I was super surprised to see them offering quality breakfast at such a low price without compromising the taste. I am so glad I found this wonderful place and this wont be the last time I am visiting.

I havent made it down here yet but I will 1 day. Heard they help people in need, every is going up price wise except wages, nice to be able to get help when needed

I love everything about this place

Superb pay it forward place with fantastic simple and wholesome fare. A wonderfully airy and healthy space where you can enjoy very affordable menu items and then still have money left to buy a $1.00 or two of buttons or more. (If you purchase $20.00 worth they will give you a charitable receipt which you can then submit to CRA when you file your taxes and get a large percentage back) Up to 5 of those pay it forward buttons can then be used a day by others in need to help nourish them totally free of charge to them. The chili was a GF option and there are a couple more. Dietary restrictions: A few GF options available.

BEST FREAKIN PANCAKES IVE EVER HAD

Chipotle Breakfast sandwiches and 4x brownies!!! Their pumpkin brownies are to die for. Just dont eat all 4 in one day.... Kid-friendliness: Unfortunately with the great help they are doing they attract a group of people that wouldnt be best around children.

541 is a great experience. I wish more people knew about this place! The staff are nice, caring and respectful. Loving my experience here! Youre also treated very well. The food is so good

Vegetarian options: Took a hummus warp it was delicious

Lovely place and lovely people with amazing tastes. I meet Jesus there. Food

Amazing serving free food to those in need as well as a regular menu with very fairly priced items. Amazing idea and the owners should be proud of themselves.

This is an amazing place which fills an important role in our city. Coffee is great, the food is good and the place does good.

Ive been coming since they first opened and it is the most wholesome place on Barton. They are now open for eating in, definitely recommend sitting at the community table and getting to know your neighbour. Purchase $1 buttons if you can, with an encampment next door at Woodland Park they can use each and every single one to feed the unhoused and underserved! Amazing! I absolutely love the atmosphere and the delicious food. They have a great selection of sandwiches, salads, and a scrumptious brunch menu on Sat mornings. Yummy cafe style drinks and baked goods too. Everything is affordable and they have a unique system involving buttons to feed those who cant afford a warm home cooked meal. Wonderful place. :) Parking: Park one street over by the park, the street parking is always taken on their street. You will get ticketed if you park in any of the lots nearby be careful!

Loved the breakfast sandwich with bacon. Its my go to when I visit. I really appreciate the impact and welcome they have for clients from the inner city. Food

Great people & great food. Had a stroke and on a very strict & tight budget. Thx for places like this . I can still go out and eat a decent meal at a fair price

Eat good food in a lovely Cafe and help get healthy food out to the people who need it most, at the same time! The staff are wonderful and the other patrons have always been friendly. Its a good place.

Its free

Great food. Great staff.

To be honest I don t know about this nice and clean place helping needy people thank you for all your support and help efforts. Merry Christmas for all Vegetarian options: I am vegetarian it looks you have everything that s Amazing thank you.

No really hard to make a fair trade cup of coffee because I cant get it at McMaster camp that been close I cant get a fight for you closd down there on right after Christmas holiday try to find focus open on a 10 come down today to another sign saying wont be open until end of this month three times Ive been up to St Joe get a fair trade cup of coffee but almost cost me about $15 to cops get you just lost a customer and lost quite a few more too another people come by want to get stuff today and it couldnt even have seen it fine is the to walk with another coming back 99 other costumes not coming back. ost quite a few

For the job that these workers do to help the homeless people in there community hats off to them

Excellent place, the food and hot beverages were very good. And also being able to buy button to help other ls is a fantastic idea.

Highly recommend this local gem. Very Williamsburg NY vibes here. The food is delicious, service on point and prices are so reasonable. I had their porridge, granola, and cappuccino so far and impressed with all. Wish I didnt live so far else Id be here every day for my breakfast run. On my 2nd visit I learned that this place is non-profit and allows someone to buy someone elses meal and believes in providing access to good food for everyone. Im so humbled by this initiative and never explored a place like this before. Looking forward to buying some buttons on my next visit that someone in need may use

Excellent food, and they support the community religiously.

Good experience overall. Good selection of sandwiches and friendly service.

Amazing place with great food that helps out the community

super nice staff, best breakfast sandwich I ve ever had, button program is cool, truly a gem in the city

You d be hard pressed to find anything negative to say about this establishment. Beautiful building, clean, wonderful community support, great food at great prices.

Best pancakes ! Love the button system even more here, its amazing that this establishment gives back to the community by helping feed the not so fortunate by providing them a decent meal even thou they do not have the funds for it.

Super nice place, good price for what it is. The local community s store just hits different. Will be back! Be aware that you are still required to wear a mask in here.

Great coffee here! Note: wear a mask and bring cash or debit.

This place is the kind of restaurant you have to frequently visit no matter where you reside in the city. Excellent service, food, prices and atmosphere. Whether I am paying cash or using the button system I am treated the exact same and never dissatisfied AT ALL. Vegetarian options: Theres not always everything but theres always something. ;) Dietary restrictions: I know there are so many diets that can find a meal or two between the daily and specials menus it is worth it to drop by. Kid-friendliness: Kids are not an issue but they are still take out only.

I come to this place every so often but after today will not. I came in wasn t greeted properly as I usually am and it seems to be a trend with this certain person I m not sure if it s a supervisor or manager. I seen this person properly greet the people after me while waiting for my food. Has happened before. As soon as I come in told to put a mask on yet days ago I came and the workers weren t wearing masks and wasn t given one for many times I ve gone this summer. And the few who were wearing weren t even wearing one properly. Not bashing places that still implement masks but I don t understand the pick and choose here? I m assuming when there s a manager workers wear masks or something. I ordered a breakfast that I have ordered before and it only had toast and literally a bite size of scrambled eggs. It was supposed to have toast, eggs, bacon and home fries.

541 is great Good eats Good people two thumbs and two big toes up Fantastic sandwiches and yummy other stuff . My heart goes out to those that are there to assist others that need a hand up . Much love to all of you @541

They are great! They feed the homeless.

Its my favourite place to eat for Lunch or Breakfast! Whom ever thought if helping out the less fortunate with button ... 5 buttons = $5 Thats the ready 541 Im sure. 5 buttons 4 1 person... Makes sense, yes? Kid-friendliness: The Staff!! Theyre the most bright, light hearted, Life Loving people Ive ever met .... And they are all like that!! Very positive!!! Wheelchair accessibility: No stairs!

I am here from out of town and thought I d try this place for some breakfast. I had no idea it was a non-profit at first and loved the idea of the button system! My breakfast sandwich was good and the staff were friendly. I also met 2 friendly gentleman there - overall a great experience and what a wonderful concept! Keep up the great work!!

Best pumpkin spice latte in town! The staff were so friendly and all the work they do for the community is amazing!

Free food and drinks based on what is called The Button Program, a jar on the counter may contain buttons which are provided by donations of some sort and one person can use up to 5 buttons valued at $1 each = $5 toward meal which could equal a free meal for thrifty consumers.

Its good

Traditional style breakfast. Delicious! Bennetts hot apple cider. No dine in, only take out. Plenty of customers. Busy around lunch time.

Great people and food

Simplicity, great taste and amazing value! The staff is warm and friendly and the atmosphere is very open and welcoming. My go-to place for breakfast when Im in the east end of Hamilton.

great food for amazing prices

Literally my fave place in Hamilton. Amazing food and such a great cause

Such a great place to have a bit to eat. And their Button system Is such a good service for the people that need helps highly recommend going

Dine in not allowed but you can go to side door order email and take it to go

Delicious food! And coffee too of course.

Bagged lunch for $5.00, different every day. Très bon!!

Great breakfast sandwiches and fantastic muffins.

A fantastic community hub! Its support of locals is unmatched. Using a pay-it-forward model, you can buy buttons for which community members can use to buy food. Great service, food and space too.

I love this place the food is great all the staff are so friendly and the service is awesome if youre coming to Hamilton you gotta come check this place out!!!

Great concept. Great people. GREAT FOOD! Thank you so much. We loved your food!

This is a place to visit for a hearty breakfast or a organic oatmeal breakfast serving. 541 is run by volunteers and is an excellent spot in the community to help those who have challenges in their lives.

Great friendly and fast service with a smile and the prices will have you coming back more than you know.

This establishment has Fed me for years at no charge. Whenever I get my paycheck I make sure to replace not only my orders for the week but also buy more buttons for the underprivileged still out there.

Amazing vary nice and sweet pepole

Good food for amazing prices. Most importantly it s a great concept.

Couldnt ask for better

Such a lovely concept and absolutely delicious food!! The drinks are excellent, too, especially the chai latte and pumpkin spice latte. Well done

Whoever made this place is a genius and must sincerely cares for the less fortunate.

I had the full breakfast which includes 2 Eggs, bacon, home fries and toast. Also had a Latte to drink. Total bill was $13 dollars, $16 dollars with the tip . From what Ive read its run by volunteers and helps feed people in poverty which is amazing. Because its such a great concept helping the community ,pretty hard to say a bad word . Food was alright and appropriate portion for the cost . Its located in a neighborhood convenient for those in need . I probably wouldnt bring a child simply because I wouldnt expose children to people struggling with addictions. Staff was friendly to me and Im happy to help support a great cause in the community. Thank you.

Great place to eat when youre in need of a good meal.

Really fair prices (a lot under $5) and tasty food. Clean and attractive restaurant. Friendly staff. Overall great vibe. The chipotle breakfast sandwich with spinach was excellent.

AmaIng food and service. Amazing atmosphere

Friendly environment. Food was delicious. Creative concept for sharing with those were a greater need.

What s great, thoughtful, caring place! Everyone should grab a coffee and a bite from here!

Great food and an opportunity to pay it forward to those in need.

Such a comfortable place. It has open seating and the food is delicious. Today I had the apple bacon grilled cheese. Its actually one of my regular meals there, as its so good!

Amazing place, amazing food, great community.

great even though they were very busy I didnt have to wait long . the food is very good and the service even better.

The nicest people, delicious food, and a great mission. I always love coming to 541 and I always try to visit when Im in the area. Plus, their button program is truly inspiring.

Got some coffee, good stuff. Love the button concept!

Excellent coffee, friendly staff and a great cause!

Love this place! Their pulled pork was amazing!

Great food at low price.

I went for coffee by recommendation of a friend and I loved it! Super warm and friendly atmosphere, delicious breakfast and lunch food, amazing service and very inclusive. I LOVE the window art and all wooden chairs and tables. Amazing experience.

Pleasant & Cosy

Wonderful

A totally wonderful Valentines lunch - food, ambiance location, service - thank you!!

This was the first visit for my friend and myself. There was quite a line-up to order; but the line moved quickly. We ordered the BLT, coffee and tea. The BLT came with a delicious dill pickle; the sandwich was freshly made. The staff was very pleasant. Great value for your money! We will return. The 541 is open for breakfast.

Absolutely amazing place. Great people, great food, and amazing concept.

I get a different meal everytime and Ive never been disappointed!!

Good coffee

Love the food, love the atmosphere, love the while concept of the restaurant.

The food is very good and the button system allows you to help others less fortunate in the community to enjoy a good meal or snack. Great coffee too!

This place is wonderful. The things they do for the people is really nice.

Wow!!!!

Probably the Best Pulled Pork Sandwich Ive had in a while from anywhere Ive been out to eat! Great flavour! Wait was a bit long (hence the 4/5 stars) but I went at a peak time (12:30pm) so thats to be expected. Great work 541 Volunteers

Great food

This place is a great non-profit café, buying buttons is akin to paying it forward but in a tangible way!

This is a unique eating place. Wonderful philosophy to feed people and serve the neighbourhood. The good is wholesome and very tasty. Service is friendly and efficient. Try it out!!!

Great place very friendly , very clean , great food at cheap prices id definitely say you walk into this place one time youll be going back great establishment as well thanks to them for helping the community great place def recommend

Love this place. Their food is oh so good and their Buttons Program is the best. Its just a great place overall and the atmosphere inside is wonderful.

Great food and they help the homeless and hungry. Keep up the good work

Great Food, great staff and decor. Super Clean washrooms. The Banana Walnut Cookies were awesome!!! If youre filming nearby and are looking for good food served quickly this is the perfect spot.

Love it

Amazing way feed and reach out to those in need, in a big but anonymous way. The button system is incredible. Food is good and reasonably priced, and the family style seating area just adds to the sense of community.

I had the chance to visit 541 for the first time this past weekend. I had heard many good things about it for a long time. It was not a disappointment. To start, the space was bright, spacious and clean. Very thoughtfully designed. The food and drink were great quality and very (intentionally) affordable. They have numerous, thoughtful elements in the cafe. Free hats and mitts, a pay-it-forward button system, and an opportunity for people in the community to get job experience through volunteering. The staff were friendly and warm. I wouldnt change a thing about the cafe or its mission. Definitely check it out! And buy a button or two. :)

Great

Awesome food, great prices and helps the community. What more could you want?

Amazing concept , super friendly staff. Love it

Affordable eats sustainably made with love. Perfect time to visit for some fall favourites, love that their menu is seasonable and prices are reasonable! A welcoming space for all. Kudos to the buttons system!

Food was great and the employees were super friend:)!! Thank you for a lovely take out breakfast

good food at good prices and the buttons there are great addition

Food is awesome!! Always fresh and a fantastic atmosphere. Whether you want breakfast lunch or dinner you will not be disappointed.

Great thing they do. Everyone should try it. Yes if youre broke they will let you pay with buttons.

541 is an amazing community space. Not only are they affordable, but a place where all are welcome at the table. I highly recommend visiting this Hamilton gem!

Great place

I come from out of town for appointments and always come here for lunch amazing food and atmosphere

Awesome place made possible by volunteers buy buttons and feed someone in need

Food is delicious, simple & nutritious - a great place to bring kids. Cafe is great just on the merits of being a cafe, but I also think 541 is doing the best job of truly building community of anywhere in the city

Unique gathering place. Terrific food. Worth your support.

Best cafe in Hamilton. The nicest people serving the best food! 10/10 dentists recommend.

Very accessible and vegab friendly. Love that this place actively supports the community. Volunteer here or buy a meal for someone else if you can!

This place is awesome for many reasons. Obviously the food is great. It is also a very cheap place. People working there do it as volunteers, so I tip a lot more than what would be customary. Also they help feed poor people --- to which you can contribute too by purchasing buttons. All in all, a go-to place for Saturday brunch with the family.