The Orchard — Restaurant in Bay of Plenty

Disappointing Welcome and Service

Our recent visit to The Orchard was anything but pleasant. We arrived with my family at 5:30 PM for a quick bite to eat, and though we didn’t have a reservation, they seated us, as there were many empty tables , however , the experience quickly took a turn for the worse.

Before being seated, we noticed some lovely spots by the fireplace and inquired if we could be moved there. The server informed us that these tables were reserved, which was completely understandable. However, we mentioned that we would be leaving by 6:30 PM and wondered if those tables were booked for later than that since we would finish and leave before the reserved parties arrived.

It was clear that there were many tables available, including some that were reserved, indicating ample availability. Despite this, HANNAH approached us with a disturbingly rude and condescending demeanor. She bluntly told us that we must book a table if we want the “nice spots” and then walked off. As she left, she sarcastically told the actual server who was to assist us, "good luck."

This behavior left a sour taste in our mouths. While we respect that some tables are reserved, our request was polite and reasonable. We simply sought to enjoy one of the better spots since it appeared they would be unoccupied during our short visit. Yet, instead of a considerate response, we received unnecessary attitude from Hannah, making it clear that our presence and money were not valued and we walked out.

Restaurants thrive on accommodating guests and offering pleasant experiences, but sadly, our visit was anything but welcoming. It’s disappointing when staff members show blatant disregard for customer service and courtesy. This unpleasant encounter has certainly influenced our decision...

Visited Saturday 24th. Booked a month prior as coming as a group. Arrived at 7pm. Drink order taken and delivered. Dinner order taken at 7.20. Dinner Delivered at 9pm. Wait of 1 hour 40 minutes Additional drinks were requested. While waiting on dinner. Waitress never asked if anyone else at the table would like an another drink. 8.40 asked the waitress to check on the wait time for the meals. She never returned. Food was acceptable however, was it worth waiting 2 hours from arrival for?? No staff had bothered to apologies or update us on the wait. We’re we’re all just left sitting there. Asked for the dessert menus. Given 1 per 2 guests. I had the main menu on this menu the cheese cake advised to ask the waitress for the flavour, I asked as requested on the menu. Response “ Check the specials sheet. I think it’s boysenberry.” I apologised as I’d asked as instructed as I didn’t get the specials sheet as we were asked to share. Response “ Well do you want the desert or what?” When I responded no the waitress walked of in a huff and didn’t bother to ask the other guests at the table if they would like to order deserts. While paying we tried to give feedback about the waitress and the wait time for the meal of 2 hours. The response from Senior staff “What do you expect we’ve been busy and the second senior staff member said she felt our comments were harsh”. They obviously prefer a public review for prospective guest to read rather than hear about less than ideal service face to face. I’m certain the waitresses are trying there best when it’s busy however how can they be expected to learn their trade when this type of example has been set by senior members of staff. No Appreciation or...

I went for brunch today with a recommendation that the food was delicious. Walked to the bar where we were greeted then decided on eating outside as the weather was stunning with a beautiful breeze. We waited at our table for service for 14 minutes as the waitress didn't say I'll be out to take your order soon or just order at the bar when you're ready. While we were there other staff were taking people's orders around us at their tables. I went to the bar where I asked can I get a waitress to get our orders or do we order at the bar? Order at the bar was the answer from the manager..so back to the table to take our orders. We ordered the chicken skewers and the scallops as the starter. And I ordered the seafood chowder for a main. Later everything came at once. When it was put on the table I said we only need our starters first. Oh, you didn't stagger your order? Yes. Opps the waitress said and left. The scallops were incredible but I had to swat the flies from my bread and chowder that had obviously been sitting before it was give to me as it had developed a skin on the top. By the time I had finished my scallops my chowder was warm and it had developed a sour taste as I tried to eat half of it before we left. Please staff, communicate to your customers on where or how to order and at least be consistent with...