54 Benjamin — Restaurant in District of Belconnen

Oh, the joy of being subjected to the enlightened expertise of the barista at this establishment. In the past two weeks, I've had the privilege of experiencing his condescending charm no less than six times. It appears that he's taken it upon himself to educate the masses on the intricacies of dining etiquette, particularly in the realm of seating arrangements.

Each time I've visited this establishment, this self-proclaimed arbiter of taste has felt compelled to direct my every move, from shooing me away from tables to chastising me for daring to stand near the food display. His tone, invariably laced with an air of superiority, has left me feeling more like a pupil in need of remedial dining lessons than a valued customer.

This morning, the charade continued. Arriving just before 7:45 AM to a relatively empty venue, I ordered my usual coffee and breakfast. After enquiring at the counter if I could occupy any vacant table, I approached one of the booths, awaiting the arrival of a friend. However, before my companion could join me, our self-appointed maître d' rushed over, insisting that I relocate to a table more suited for my solitude.

My dear barista, if you're so averse to patrons enjoying the comfort of a larger table, perhaps you could employ a host or invest in signage indicating which tables are off-limits to the dining masses. I even texted my friend to cancel our rendezvous, so thoroughly was I put off by the barista's overbearing presence.

After finally settling into my militarily assigned seat, my coffee was delivered with the instruction that when ordering a takeaway coffee, one must keep one's 'ears open and listen out' for your order. I couldn't resist a hint of negativity in my response, reminding him that I was, in fact, seated at a table, not waiting in line for a to-go cup.

As I departed, I couldn't help but notice that the table I had initially chosen remained unoccupied. Perhaps the barista was saving it for a more deserving patron, one who wouldn't dare to challenge his dining authority.

While the coffee and food may be exceptional, the barista's attitude leaves much to be desired. I'm taking my business elsewhere, where I can enjoy a meal without feeling like I'm under constant surveillance by a self-proclaimed dining guru. After all, there are plenty of other establishments that appreciate their customers and aren't afraid to show it by demonstrating respect. Something the barista here is incapable of.

Needless to say, they aren't going to miss my business, owing to their...

Best bar in Canberra by Far.

Beautiful Décor, great Music, perfect location.

It may not have a large selection of products, but everything is carefully selected and staff are highly trained in their production knowledge regarding taste, aromatics and use in mixology plus how to match to each persons individual tastes.

The Manager and female bartender in both of my visits have been perfectly attentive to sequence of service, past orders, name of myself and other guests and consistently engaged in compelling conversation without being distracted or slowed down.

My only problem is that there are not more outlets in Canberra, Their license is limited to 10pm and no kitchen. But you cant have everything. Whom ever the owners are I would like to take my hat off to you and plead that you expand and don't change one bit, except for possibly having a venue with a later license and share food like tapas.

I swear I don't work for nor am I affiliated in anyway with the staff or venue. Honestly I have not given such a high review to anywhere in ACT. Canberra bars need to adapt and improve and If we see more venues in ACT adapting to this level of service, quality of product, Presentation and strict unwavering brand image then Canberra could be leading the forefront of Australian Bars. This venue even trumps some of my favorite small bars in Sydney (NSW) which is impressive considering they have considerably more resources and larger population to fund bar...

I wasn’t impressed with the breakfast, tasted like the only freshly prepared items were the hard poached eggs and burnt toast. I was prepared to walk away and attempt to have a good day and chalk it up to experience, but was confronted in an aggressive manner as I attempted to pay the $80 for 3 small meals and 3 drinks by the rude and unprofessional staff.

My partner had left a negative review which I was unaware of, and the staff lacking tact, grilled me that it must be me that left the review—as this seemed to be an ongoing issue for them.

I paid and left leaving them the change, however as I left with our special need child they confronted my partner, leaving me with no choice but to take my child outside away from the escalating theatre that was developing as to not trigger his anxiety and end up with a screaming 10yo.

A few minutes passed and my spouse now emerged furious and in disbelief at the exchange.

As we were centring our emotions another couple who stayed to witness the exchange, approached us and reported that they had the same issues we had with the staff and quality of food.

We entered the cafe expecting a relaxing brunch without agenda.

We will not...