Holly's Neighbourhood Cafe & Bar — Restaurant in Kitchener

This is difficult as I think promoting small businesses is very important, especially during these difficult times but certain things at Holly's make me very uncomfortable. One of these things is something that occurred the last time I visited the cafe. I was sitting in the small booth area, myself at one table and two girls at another table. We had all gotten things to eat and drink, we were all studying/working on homework and the staff knew that. It was very obvious that one lady, a woman in her forties/fifties who works at the cafe was very unhappy that we were there studying and taking up space. She kept peering into the space and was visibly unhappy with our presence in the cafe (mind you more than half of the cafe at the time of these altercations was working on laptops).

This is when another girl came into the cafe, ordered a drink and came into the small booth area to find a space. The same waitress who was already unhappy followed the girl in and proceeded to confront her, stating that she could not sit there and take up space because she was working on a laptop. Her actual words were, "No you cannot sit here, you've already been here for a long time." This girl had not been here for a long time though, she had just come in. I have worked in the service industry for a while and I understand it can be frustrating when people stay for a long time and take up lots of space, but there are better and more appropriate ways to handle the situation. The waitress could have asked the girl if she wouldn't mind moving to a shared table with other people who were working on their homework to keep tables available and open for people who were in bigger parties and not planning on staying for long. Instead, she decided to make the girl feel uncomfortable and unwelcome by coming into a cafe to get a drink and get some work done.

As if it could not get more uncomfortable, the waitress then decided to confront the two girls who had been sitting at the other table in the booth beside me. The lady pointed out very plainly that they had been there for a long time and had overwhelmed their stay. The girls, shocked and feeling uncomfortable apologized and promised that they would leave after the woman kept saying that the cafe was not meant for people to stay for long periods of time (no signage states that there is any suitable amount of time for people to be staying). The two left shortly after the interaction expressing that they were very unlikely to return to the cafe again.

I was sitting there watching all of this worried that I would be the next one that gets the boot.

Since there is not a time limit on how long people can be here posted anywhere I do not think it is fair to make people feel bad, guilty or uncomfortable for staying for a while and studying/doing work, if they are paying customers. I also have a huge issue with staff telling customers that they must leave or making them feel bad for staying at a cafe if they are not actively causing a disruption. If Holly's does not want people to stay for long periods of time then they should think about putting a timer limit on their internet access. They should also have signs up saying as much. It is unfair and unkind to make customers feel guilty and verbally chase them out of the building. Nothing wrong with wanting a steady flow of people coming and going into the cafe, but then they need to make this their policy.

Everyone else who was working at the cafe was wonderful and helpful. Service was quick and the food/drink I ordered was very tasty. This rating is low because of how uncomfortable the altercations between the waitress and other customers made me. It ruined the comfy and homey vibe of the whole place. Due to this, I am very unlikely to return again. Simply because I come to cafes to relax, enjoy the food, music and good vibes and get work done. I recommend cafes such as Covenant Cafe or Whoopsie Daisy Drinks. I have been to these places multiple times and they have never made me feel uncomfortable for hanging out there and...

If you're looking for a cafe that’s more than just a place to grab a bite, Holly’s Neighbourhood Cafe is the spot to visit. Tucked away inside a charming house, this cafe delivers an atmosphere that feels like a warm embrace.

From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by the comforting decor—wooden tables, cozy seating, and even a charming brick fireplace that adds to the homey appeal. The vibe here is immaculate—peaceful yet lively, the perfect blend of cozy and social.

But let's talk about the food—absolutely amazing. Whether you're in the mood for a classic breakfast, a well-stuffed sandwich for lunch, or an indulgent dinner with baked brie and garlic bread bites, Holly’s Neighbourhood Cafe truly delivers. And if you’re one for an afternoon pick-me-up, their coffee is nothing short of a masterpiece.

Beyond the aesthetics and delicious meals, the service here is unmatched. The staff are friendly, welcoming, and make you feel right at home. You can tell that every detail—from the menu to the atmosphere—was crafted with love and thoughtfulness.

It’s not just a cafe; it’s an experience. Holly’s Neighbourhood Cafe is hands down one of the most beautiful cafes I’ve ever seen—great food, great vibes, and an all-around wonderful place to spend time.

If you’re ever in the area,this is one spot you absolutely...

Holly’s cafe had been on my list of places to go for a little while now. I was able to finally make it over the other day and I was so happy I went!! I had seen lots of reviews and heard people talking about this place so I wanted to try it for my own. When I went it was very busy but I was able to get a spot outside. The atmosphere when I went was very cozy, everyone seemed to know each other which made it feel very warm and nice! I ordered turkey and Brie sandwich which was absolutely amazing! The apples were very fresh and the cranberry mayo was a different but nice touch. I also got the iced americano to pair with it. The servers were very lovely and everything came out within ten minutes. I stayed for a bit while I did some work and read a book. Inside there was some music which I personally thought was a bit loud but if you don’t have a problem with that there’s no worries! My first time experience was one that i definitely won’t forget! If you get the chance please try to visit! I...