Spiral Cafe — Restaurant in Victoria

Read other lowly rated reviews and you'll see the trends that force people to post about their poor experiences.

I would say half of the staff are friendly, though some of them seem incapable of being that way which is a bit odd for the type of business that is ran. Depends on the day and who is working.

As for what they provide for services, there is no wifi so I have had to use my cell data to use my laptop. The coffee is okay but the hot food they serve is all reheated and everything is overpriced for what you get. Do not bother with any of the wraps, you will regret that especially. I like supporting local business rather than corporate, though, so I was originally willing to overspend.

What really threw me off is that the owner just told me to no longer sit at the larger tables because I'm there "for hours" which apparently is a bad thing... I get that some of the larger tables are intended for groups but the owner should be considering that I can't fit my laptop and school work on the tiny one person tables they have. Typically I would purchase a meal as well, and there's no way for me to fit more than the plate, or a book, or a laptop -- you are forced to choose one thing only with this kind of set up... it's just not ideal. I have always tipped and typically would purchase $20, sometimes $25 or more worth of food and coffee as a means for the time I'd be there if it went past an hour or two.

For context, I go to coffee shops to work away from home and if that's not feasible then it defeats the purpose of going there, as well as supporting the local business at an extra expense for me compared to other options in Victoria. I could go to a pub, restaurant or anywhere else and pay the same for much more and my own table. This is also coming from someone who would also only use the larger tables when necessary, and if I were just using one item, like reading a book or just sipping coffee, then I would not be doing so and instead resort to a smaller spot if I stayed.

Clearly the owner doesn't understand some of their potential customer base and why they may come in to sit down. Work on providing better options for both groups and single persons coming in and you won't have to talk down to your customers for being in your business. Invest in better seating arrangements if you don't like how YOU set it up. Don't put the blame on some of your most supportive client base. That's really discouraging to experience, feeling like I'm inconveniencing them for simply using their space... what else is it intended for?

Bathrooms are also unavailable to the public, but I have consistently seen some of the staff bring in a whole troop of kids (as many as 6 at a time) to use them while in front of the customers, taking up large spaces as well for long durations and being loud as hell. I wouldn't have included this but with what I just mentioned above, it rubs salt in the wound and shows a clear double standard.

Additionally, I've overheard staff gossiping about some of their regulars... I wanted to give them the benefit of the doubt, they're human after all and perhaps they have difficult customers, but after supporting their business and being treated the way I was, I really see how this place is being ran and I'm going to go elsewhere from now on. No point in spending $50 to $100 a week on a place that doesn't value your support or presence.

In closing, if you'd rather support a local business but want better and friendlier service, seating or options then try one of the other cafes instead (Fantastico, Union Pacific and 2% are all great and the staff are amazing). You'll get more for your money's worth out of the food as well and likely won't be talked down to for being...

If you’re looking for a delightful café experience in Victoria, BC, look no further than Spiral Cafe on Craigflower Road. This charming spot has quickly become one of our favourites!

The moment you walk in, you're greeted by the warm ambiance and the delicious aroma of freshly brewed coffee. I ordered their mocha, which was heavenly—rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with just the right amount of chocolate. It’s the kind of drink that comforts you with every sip.

At Spiral Cafe, the treats are as delightful as the coffee. We savoured their whoopie cookie, a soft and fluffy delight that perfectly complemented my mocha. My husband was equally thrilled with the zesty and bright lemon square, a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

One of the unique features of Spiral Cafe is the local art adorning its walls, all available for sale. This not only adds to the café's charm but also fosters a sense of community, inviting patrons to connect with the creative spirit of the area.

Parking is convenient, with plenty of spots available nearby, making it easy to pop in and enjoy a leisurely treat. The café is in a lovely neighbourhood, filled with quaint shops and beautiful scenery, perfect for a post-coffee stroll.

If you're in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Spiral Cafe. With its delicious offerings, inviting atmosphere, and celebration of local art, it’s a place you’ll want to return to time...

Sorry to be a contrarian to all the good reviews. An unpleasant and confusing experience... Having ordered a coffee around 530pm, with the place looking like it was about to close I inquired if I would have time to sit outside to enjoy it. I had already checked the hours of business on the door, which are the ones listed on the website (Mon. & Wed.: 7am - 9:30 pm.) I was told no, pretty abruptly. OK I thought did I misread? As I walked back towards the hours of business I heard "I can't believe you actually going to check...." At this point I realised my business was not wanted, so I cancelled my order and left, not before being told "You are not welcome here again".

Can I suggest you make the opening hours for your cafe a little more in line with the actual hours, though I guess that would no longer be...