Refuge Cafe — Restaurant in Sydney

My experience at this coffee store today was incredibly disappointing due to the rude and disrespectful behavior of the staff. My wife ordered a coffee with almond milk and some avocado toast. However, when I received the coffee and took a few sips, I realized it tasted like regular milk, which I avoid for health reasons. Assuming it was a simple mistake, I politely explained to the staff member that the order was incorrect and requested almond milk instead, offering to pay the price difference.

To my surprise, the staff member insisted on charging an extra $2.50, which seemed excessive. When I asked for clarification and requested to see a price list, the staff member became defensive and unnecessarily rude, claiming they had given us a discount. I reiterated that we had not asked for any discounts and simply wanted to understand the reason for the additional charge.

Upon attempting to leave a review, I noticed that I am not the only one who has encountered such issues. It appears to be a recurring trend.

The interaction left me feeling disrespected and frustrated. I promptly contacted customer care to report the issue. Overall, the way the staff member behaved was completely unacceptable, and I have no intention of returning to this café...

Whilst my partner and I, were walking past the Refuge Cafe, I had noticed on their sandwich chalkbord, that they had ice cream. Even though we had not long had lunch, an ice cream would go down a treat. There were three tables that were occupied, so being served, I thought, would be quick and easy. There were five staff working. Three of the staff were huddled by the barista machine talking amongst themselves, yet none of them were making coffees. There was a staff person out on the floor, carrying a cloth and trying to look busy. The Newbie on the team, I believe to be, had just finished serving a customer. I got her attention, then asked what flavour ice creams they had. The Newbie had to ask one of her colleagues, who was still talking with the other two, by the barista machine. Well...all of that, for VANILLA only. We were about to move on, when we were told, OH!! they also had chocolate. The Newbie suggested that we take a seat, and that she would bring our treat to us. One star for the service given by the young, well spoken Indian woman. If there were half stars, it would be for the ice...

Yummy food and flexible menu keeps everyone happy. All of this at reasonable prices. Quiet place to meet friends before or during shopping. The list of reasons to meet here grows quickly because you want to go back for more. Wonderful place for mother daughter or any other family combination. Staff are attentive and always happy to oblige with old style waitressing hospitality. Refreshing to escape franchise models while at the same time still knowing what to expect. Good old fashioned excellence. Both hot and cold beverages here are always deliciously sophisticated as are the cakes and wide selection of hot and cold meals. Lots of spacious seating and floor space. Partitioned off with public toilets nearby allowing customers like myself to enjoy the cafe for hours on end with good company. Is it possible to have drunk every drink on the menu and tasted every meal? This may be why I'm now in a privileged position to ask for modifications and preferences. Before too long they may consider naming a meal after me. But I fear I'm not their only frequent customer. Press like if you like...