A 52-year-old Hamilton man is facing charges after a stabbing at a Barton Street East restaurant.

He allegedly stabbed a 35-year-old man in head several times at 541 Eatery & Exchange shortly after 10 a.m. Tuesday.

Police media spokesperson Const. Lorraine Edwards said it's not clear what led up to the assault. She wasn't able to say whether the men knew each other.

"We're still investigating."

The eatery, a registered charity located in a former bank near Sanford Avenue, allows customers to buy buttons to leave in a jar at the front counter for those who can't afford meals.

Sue Carr, executive director, said the eatery was having a regular morning before the attack.

"We certainly wish it hadn't happened."

Edwards said the victim was sent to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Stephen Brydson, 52, of Hamilton has been charged with aggravated assault and mischief under $5,000.