I ordered 160 cookies for a party that I was hosting. I ordered 80 orange and cranberry shortbreads and 80 empire cookies. I got a call at 7:30 the morning of the event from the manager who told me that she could not fill my order because it needed to be placed 48 hours in advance and the person who took the order was a new staff as she did not know that. I had placed the order on Thursday morning before the event on Saturday. The manager said she would give me all the empire cookies but only 24 of the orange and cranberry cookies because that was all she had. The remainder of the shortbreads would have to be plain. Seeing that it was just hours before the event, I agreed with that solution and told her that I was very disappointed. I arrived at 11:30 to pick up my order and it was prebacked. I only received 8 of the orange cranberry shortbreads - not 24. To my surprise, there was a full tray of orange and cranberry shortbreads in the display case and the gentleman who served me told me that he had strict orders from the manager not to sell them to me, as they could not be left without cookies. There were other full and empty trays in the display case and people purchasing the last loaves of bread from the shelves. They were not stopped from buying those last loaves. I asked if I trade a few so I could put at least two at each table and he said no. I asked him to remove some plain ones and then I would get my daughter to buy the ones that I wanted and he said no - I am aware that you are going to do that. Even the shocked lady in line behind me offered to buy them for me. I asked for the manager and he said she was not there and then he finally traded 12 for me so I could a least put two on each plate. This is so disappointing. In a time when small businesses are suffering, I can't imagine not telling the truth about the cookies knowing that I would be there to pick them up and see them in the display case and then not selling something to someone...
Read moreStepping into Hot Oven Bakery on Bloor, I was greeted by the inviting aroma of freshly baked goods that promised a delightful culinary adventure. Eager to sample their offerings, I found myself drawn to the display of bread, anticipating a taste experience that would tantalize my taste buds and leave a lasting impression.
However, as I indulged in a selection of their bread, I couldn't help but feel a sense of disappointment wash over me. The bread, while undeniably fresh and of good quality, lacked the excitement and distinctiveness I had hoped for. Each bite felt mundane and unremarkable, failing to deliver the flavor journey I had envisioned.
The absence of a unique and memorable experience with their bread left me with a lingering sense of dissatisfaction. It became apparent that Hot Oven Bakery's bread offerings, while functional and well-crafted, lacked the creativity and innovation that elevate a simple staple into a remarkable delight. The lack of exciting flavors, textures, or twists left me yearning for a more engaging and inspiring encounter.
In the world of culinary exploration, even the most basic elements can contribute significantly to the overall experience. The bread at Hot Oven Bakery, while technically proficient, failed to make its mark and left me with a desire for more. As I exited the bakery, I couldn't help but reflect on the missed opportunity for a truly exceptional bread encounter that would have added depth and dimension to the overall dining adventure.
In hindsight, my experience at Hot Oven Bakery on Bloor highlighted the importance of infusing creativity and a sense of adventure into even the simplest culinary offerings. While the bread may have fallen short in delivering an unforgettable experience, it served as a reminder of the potential that lies within every element of a meal to elevate and enhance the overall...
Read moreThis is a bakery that I have always loved, but today I felt disrespected by the attendant behind the counter. She was upset that I took a packaged bag of buns from an area behind the counter that had an opening on the side of the table. I genuinely thought I was doing her a favor by grabbing it as the store is a long walk, also it was the last bag and easily accessible to the customers behind me, so I took it before I lost out because the attendant was busy with another customer. She felt the need to scold me immediately by asking me where i got the buns from and telling me I am not supposed to reach over for anything. I tried explaining that I did not reach over, that it was accessible on the side of the table but she walked away from me rudely to just cash me out before I could fully explain or ask for anything else. No Hello, no may I help you, nothing. In the end I did apologize to her as she was visibly upset, however, if you are to correct the action of a customer, there is an appropriate way in doing so and this was not it. Covid rules change every day and it is a learning curve for us all. Please teach your staff not to covid shame your customers and to take a better approach. Also, I must say that your covid setup is contradictary as you have many items accessible to customers that are able to touch and pick up for cash out. Maybe best to keep everything out of reach for customers so there is no confusion or put proper signage. Very disappointing for something so simple like a prepackaged...
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