Homegrown Hamilton

There are no part-time workers at Homegrown Hamilton, Mike Pattison and Beth Chichakian's fair labour, fair trade and organic eatery, coffeehouse and music venue. The partners in business and life established the inclusive space that epitomizes their beliefs in September 2011.

"It's a new age of socially-minded business," Mike says. "We want to leave our mark while acknowledging the homegrown flavour and talent from Hamilton," he adds, explaining the business' name. Hiring only full-time workers who are paid a living wage, and serving only fresh, local, organic and fair trade food and coffee ― the latter of which is roasted on-site ― Homegrown Hamilton is a zero-emissions business that takes their stance so seriously even their take-out utensils are biodegradable.

In the kitchen, Mike's developed palate and extensive experience as a coffee roaster serve him well as the primary cook. Meanwhile, Beth's expertise as a foodie and vegetarian have informed the menu's quality food, as well as the decisions to serve environmentally conscious meat and to source produce from organic growers such as the Honest Field Farm.

The pair, who have always been "labour intuitive" and activists, solidified their relationship on the picket lines protesting the Red Hill Valley Parkway. "We're in it for the positive change because it matters," Mike says. "We stand up for many things. We won't back down in our beliefs simply because it's more affordable."