The Front Gallery & Cafe — Restaurant in District of Canberra Central

Lovely coffee and venue. Terrible customer service.

I was actually on my way to another cafe as I am new to Canberra and exploring to find a local, I saw The Front as I parked and decided to spend some time to do some uni work there instead as it looked warm and inviting.

I arrived at the front counter at 0758 and asked if I could grab a table, it immediately came across as the biggest inconvenience as they were ‘opening soon’ yet the opening hours on the timing card at the front entrance said 0700 opening through weekdays. At about 0845 I went to the counter to order an almond croissant from the cabinet, I kept getting told multiple times it was ‘TABLE SERVICE’ and essentially to sit down. I knew it was table service as it was spoken at me multiple times. I told them that I wasn’t able to order it through the scan in menu on the table. He let out a large sigh and processed the order.

A staff member later came in and was greeted warmly and general respectful conversation occurred for the whole cafe to hear. So I’m sure it is possible to offer that to customers.

I left exactly an hour after I arrived. The front counter staff member seemed satisfied when I was leaving. As someone who has spent close to a decade in the hospitality industry and do my best to present a positive disposition in all situations, it left me feeling as though I had done something wrong in being present there, it was extremely uncomfortable. I am just beyond disappointed. I have never felt so unwelcome. I will not...

Today we had the pleasure of experiencing the launch of the new menu at breakfast. We were lucky enough to sample a wide range of what is available via a series of tasting dishes. First up, we had poached eggs in hollandaise nestled atop sensational potato rosti. The blend of flavours and textures was just too good to be true. Next, crispy Kipfler potato salmon salad. The mouth watering crispy skins and warm carby potato centers set off the delicate smokiness of the salmon. Just when we thought it couldn't get any better, along came the roast pumpkin with bocacino, cashews and pickled greens. A delicate and delightful blend of flavours. We later found out that the pickles were part of the Fronts strategy of using all parts of the food and reducing their waste to the minimum. The final savoury plate (before dessert) was succulent roast cauliflower with sweet potato crisps and pomegranate on a cauliflower puree. Mmmmm! Then dessert! White chocolate, raspberry and coconut waffles topped with mascarpone , fruit and button meringues and a jug of maple syrup to dispose as we saw fit. Needless to say we made very short work of it, and then sat back in contented contemplation. The Front's new menu is a great example of great tasting food being great healthy food and I would recommend it to anyone who...

New Years Day '23. These guys are open so thought I would try them out. Iced late and eggs benedict with bacon.

I'll be honest, I'm not sure if I would get the same food again. For starters, the eggs were clearly over done. To be fair, I didn't give them the opportunity to resolve it, first cause chef should check them (no bounce, don't serve them), and secondly I'm pretty chill today, so I ate them and enjoyed anyway. However for those of you a who are funny about poach eggs, check them and if over done, just let one of the staff know.

Speaking of staff, these guys are bloody great. Staff is 50% of the vibe when it comes to cafes, and these guys are a vibe with fantastic customer service. The person who took my order even complimented my nails, which tells me that these guys are always prepared to spark a conversation.

There is some art work inside from Canberra artist, while they have gone for a neutral palet on the walls with lots of plants.

Recommend as a good place to catch up with some friends while having a cup of coffee. Will likely...