Thirsty Monkey — Restaurant in Sydney

Personally, I like my texture unbeatable. When I find a fine establishment that prides itself on providing the customer with a delicately crafted culinary delight such as an acai bowl, I like the texture to be nothing short of unbeatable. To be frank, this figure known as “Thirsty Monkey” - who, might I add, have explicit wording on the back of their uniforms sharing their claim of “unbeatable texture” - have thoroughly disappointed me with the lack of quality. I have been to this store many times in the past, without feeling the need to check the viscocity and overall texture of the meal itself. However, on this occasion the moon specifically whispered in my ear that something close to my heart was a lie. Immediately, I thought of acai. This was quickly followed by what only I can describe as a “texture tip” (the move popularised by many Sydney influencers to discuss the texture of the acai product). Much to my dismay, “Thirsty Monkey” failed this test. Not only wasting all the fond memories I had of this place, throwing them all into the bin because of the lie they were merely built upon. But it had also taken my pride. I felt lied to and cheated by this particular branch of “Thirsty Monkey” and couldn’t stand for it any longer. I know the ins and outs of the “Thirsty Monkey” company. I know for a fact that their texture can indeed be unbeatable (proof of concept: Thirsty Monkey Marrickville). I believe this establishment itself needs a kick in the right direction to become the place where all acai lovers can congregate and enjoy this delicious, yet beautiful culinary experience. The people, though, are kind-hearted and soulful. I just wish this was reflected in the product that they produce. Overall, a good restaurant for the untrained palate. However, for those seeking a more elegant texture, go elsewhere. Lastly, the last redeeming quality of this franchise as a whole, faaaarrrkkkk that pistachio...

Few months ago I gave Thirsty Monkey a 5 rating.. good serving and good service. I returned 2 weeks ago and I noticed my husband's bowl was kinda empty so I told him to complain. The lady apologised and said they were just busy but we went again today and got the same less acai in our bowls compared to previous times we have been here. The team service is also not as friendly today. I am not sure if the popularity of the place has changed their way of serving but the acai bowl has less acai and the team service is also less friendly. Disappointed as I was always impressed that Thirsty Monkey had good quality acai and good servings compared to others who rip off their customers by adding other ingredients to make it look like there is more acai. Thirsty Monkey now seems like they are serving less acai in their bowls. I hope Thirsty Monkey return to the way they use to serve their acai bowls. Gave a 2 rating for the quality of acai. Definitely good acai. Low rating due to not filling the acai bowl like before, sometimes they put acai around the bowl and its empty in the middle (just move the outside aside and you will see straight though to the container as its empty), too much of granola (to make the bowl look full), and team service.

UPDATE: changing to 3 star as we noticed it is one particular staff who doesn't fill the bowl consistently. Had another staff today and we all noticed it was properly filled ie inside the bowl was not empty. Did not skimp on the acai and right amount of topping. The way it was always served. Please train all your staff to prepare th acai bowls the same. We now hope we dont get this other staff when...

Açai is nice but had a negative experience with customer service. Was wondering if it was a one-off but after looking at other reviews it’s evident that customer experience is not valued here. This is highlighted by the owners immature responses to reviews. The potential is great and tweaks to workplace culture/attitude would make it great.

edit: In response to owners reply which stated “Please enlighten us what experience where you looking for? You place an order you pay, you pick up your order. It’s a fast pace place really having hard time understanding what kind of service were you looking for at a fast place.”

I wasn’t expecting anything crazy, just basic kindness and politeness. I work in hospitality too and even in fast-paced places, good attitude and a smile are just part of the job. If you think about it, in all F&B establishments you simply “place an order, you pay, you pick up your order” and that is the absolute bare minimum as the paying customer is owed that. The difference between your shop and other establishments is that Thirsty monkey delivers the bare minimum whereas other shops have a standard they uphold in terms of both food & service. It’s a bit sad when staff seem annoyed taking our order, especially when we’re excited to support the business. Fast food or not, customer service still matters. Just some honest feedback, no rudeness...