With the Grain — Restaurant in Guelph

I visited this place about a year ago and absolutely loved it. I was in town this past Saturday and decided to visit again— unfortunately, I won’t be returning after this visit.

While the food is still excellent, the service was extremely disappointing this time. One major concern: the same dirty tongs, visibly coated with a thick build-up from various food items, were reused for everything I ordered. It was hard to miss, and frankly, it was unappetizing.

When I asked simple questions, the staff either didn’t know how to respond or gave dismissive answers. I also asked for a proper box for my donut, since I had a long drive ahead to prevent the icing from sticking and peeling off, a basic request, but instead was told it’s supposed to come in a bag and got denied.

I ordered a latte as well, which took nearly five minutes to arrive, and when it finally did, it was poorly made. The milk was steamed incorrectly, and it was clear the staff could use more training on how to properly prepare drinks. It’s disappointing to see such a drop in service quality.

Won’t...

I stopped in today for a coffee, a loaf of bread, and a croissant. While I generally appreciate that the kitchen staff work with their hands (and I trust they wash them), I was really put off by what happened at the front counter.

The person working the cash register rang me through, and then, without washing their hands or putting on gloves, immediately used those same hands to grab the loaf of bread I was buying and put it in a bag.

When I asked if this was normal practice, I was told “yes, that’s how we do it here.” I then watched the exact same thing happen with the very next customer in line. Honestly, that’s pretty gross. Handling money and then touching ready-to-eat food without any barrier is a major hygiene issue.

It’s a shame because the bakery itself has a great reputation, but this left me uncomfortable and I won’t be back unless they address basic food hygiene and...

Was attracted to the bakery while trying the Too Good to Go app. The suprise bag was great. Purchased some day olds and a coffee and a lemon square. The square was huge ( ate it over several sittings ) and it was delicious. My other good were on the savory side and just as large and delicious. The place was sensory overload with so many choices, smells, and sights. The only thing that was lacking was the service. The girl wearing a mask seemed to be either bored or annoyed by me. I ordered a coffee and when I realized that they had to put in the cream and sugar and after apologizing and asked for cream and sugar the girl seemed very annoyed. It was my first time here and I didn't know how things operated. I will be back goodie bag or not! Just hope I don't upset the counter girl again because now I know how the place operates. Great food and atmosphere but not so...