Hamilton bakery plans to weather the storm of residential rezoning

A popular downtown Hamilton bakery says they’re still in the business of bread, deli and desserts despite its property being the future site of a new residential building.

The owners of Pane Del Sole Bakery at John and Cannon streets said development plans are still undecided following an approval for residential rezoning. 

They add no matter how things play out, their family business intends to stay at the same site with future tenants.

There were plenty sitting down to eat during the lunch hour at Pane Del Sole Bakery Wednesday.  

Customers say they flock to the restaurant for its old-school European feel and flavorful bites. 

The shop has spent more than 50 years serving up fresh bread, deli meats and desserts for locals. But after decades working the ovens and counters, the shop’s owners are looking to diversify.

Owner Philip Alaimo says he and his staff are preparing for the future. 

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The location where the property sits was recently approved for rezoning to build a new residential complex under City Hall’s West Harbour development plan. 

Alaimo says the site is still in its planning phases as he remains focused on the bakery.  

He says it’s too early to know when construction will start, how much the project will cost or whether the units will be condos or apartment rentals.

Ward 2 Councilor Cameron Kroetsch says it’s going to be a little bit denser, other than what it was thought to be in the secondary plan. 

“The thing I hear all the time, more purpose-built apartment rentals because we’re seeing issues with that market of people who can’t afford to buy houses and wanting to have an apartment,” Kroetsch said.  

Kroetsch says 80 per cent of the people who live downtown rent their homes, so rental stock is helpful.

The owners at Pane Del Sole also say they are monitoring the economic landscape and it’s impact to the housing industry, adding more uncertainty as to when they intend to get shovels into the ground. 

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