Maipai is without a doubt one of the hottest restaurants in Hamilton right now. This no longer hidden gem on Barton Street has exploded in popularity over the years, so Steel City Magazine went to see what all the buzz is really about.
The minute we walk in we knew that everyone is right. Maipai has perfected the balance between restaurant vibes and delicious food. Brought to us by the amazing Chef/Owner Salar, this pizza spot is more than just pies… it’s an experience.
Tiki Bar Meets Detroit-Style Pizza
The beauty of Maipai is being completely transported. The decor and ambiance allows you to escape the reality of the day and unwind with a delicious rum cocktail. The restaurant is decked out in beach decor, complete with a full Tiki Bar. The best part… no TVs, at all.
At Maipai, you can truly disconnect from your busy, stressful life and enjoy some time at the beach; it’s the perfect little getaway in the heart of Hamilton.
The Drinks
The cocktail list at the Tiki Bar is extensive to say the least. We sat at the bar during our visit, and after chatting with the bartender, they recommended we try the Scorpion Bowl for two. Made with the Mapai rum blend, gin, orange, lemon, grapefruit, demerara, falernum the cocktail was quite delicious; the perfect way to start off the night.
The drinks menu also features classic beach cocktails like the Mai Tai, Tiki Sangrias, and a Blue Hawaii. They aren’t afraid to have fun with their drinks; the Chai-Buprofen and the Suffering Bastard are definitely on the list to try for next time. All of the Maipai cocktails are served in fancy Tiki glasses, adding to the overall vacation vibes.
Not into alcohol? No problem. Maipai has delicious mocktails that are just as fancy as their alcoholic counterparts.
Further, the Maipai drinks menu features a selection of beer and wine to choose from. If you aren’t a fancy cocktail type of person, indulge in one of the many options on Maipai’s Rum List. Nothing adds to the vacation effect more than an authentic Caribbean Rum.
The Food
While we are sipping our Scorpion Bowl, the appetizer arrives. We tried the Parm Fries; something easy to nibble on while we wait for our pizza. These perfectly fried bits of golden potato are tossed in a gochujang butter, topped with grated parmesan and green onions. These little bites are heavenly, exactly what you want after a long day to get your meal started.
It wouldn’t be pizza without wings, and Maipai has some of the best wings in the city. You have to try the Ma La Honey Wings. For fans of hot and honey wings, this takes that sweet and spicy flavour to the next level.
For the main event, the not-so-secret Pickle Pizza. This delicious pie is made on their signature Detroit-style pizza topped with dill pickles, bacon, roasted garlic mayo, with a fresh dill garnish. This pizza was definitely one of the best we’ve ever had. We can’t wait to go back to start to work our way through the menu.
What Makes a Pizza Detroit-style?
There are a few distinct features that make a Detroit-style pizza. It’s made with a high hydration dough and cooked in a seasoned rectangular pan in a stone deck oven. Also, the toppings are spread right to the edges, and when baked this thick crust pizza is light and airy, with crispy cheese all the way around.
Maipai offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options for pizzas as well!
The Overall Maipai Experience
The Maipai experience really is unique. The decor, ambiance, drinks, and food all work together to really transport you. The vibe is relaxed and beachy. The staff are attentive and knowledgable. As busy as the restaurant is, our drinks were never empty, we never felt like we were waiting for our food, and we never felt rushed to finish up. At the end of our meal, the Owner/Chef Salar came out to chat with us, and it really was just the cherry on top of a great night.
With the booming success of the restaurant, we recommend you book a reservation in advance to guarantee a table. Takeout orders can also. beplaced in advance on the Maipai website.
Maipai is located at 631 Barton Street East, Hamilton, ON. Parking is available on Barton Street.
