Group of 4 lunchtime food and drinks. We had a few issues. Half our food order became lost in the system so 2 of our party had to wait and watch the others eating. When we raised it with staff, no apology was offered, although a staff member did come to the table to ask if we wished to order more drinks while we waited for the rest of our food. When the food arrived after a further 15 mins we were told by the server the slip had been lost. A one off?I don't think so from reading other reviews.
I had ordered the vegetable tart with side salad as I don't eat meat, but was shocked and upset to see the salad covered in bits of bacon. I raised it with the staff immediately, no apology again other than an offer to change the salad, and I was told that it stated there was bacon in the salad on the menu. I checked the menu again and it didn't say that the vegetable tart and house salad had meat in the salad. However, lower down a separate entry for just the House salad, stated that it has bacon bits. It's unbelievable that this is not more clearly pointed out on the individual menu item for a vegetable tart, and very odd to include meat in a salad as standard, we are not in the 1970s any more!
Some more feedback, we ordered sandwiches and were disappointed that these came with no garnish of any kind, as most cafes would include. When I eventually got my tart and salad, it was very good, but tiny. The salad consisted of 3 leaves of lettuce smothered in some kind of dressing, but way too much of it. After "Bacongate" I didn't want to chance eating that, so left it.
Putting all of this together I had a very poor experience which left me feeling disappointed and upset. Good bakery ruined by poor execution on the cafe side. I have also read through previous reviews and see that similar complaints have been raised before, and the owners have replied saying they will be addressed. Well they haven't! I look forward to...
Read moreHambleton Bakery and Café: A Delightful Stop for Bread Lovers and More!
Just outside the village of Exton, Rutland, Hambleton Bakery and Café is a hidden gem that promises a delightful culinary experience. Known for its award-winning bread and pastries, this bakery has quickly become a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
The bakery boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, with friendly staff who are always ready to offer recommendations and create a welcoming experience. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely afternoon tea, the café offers a variety of options to satisfy any craving.
The menu features a wide selection of freshly baked bread, pastries, and cakes, all made with high-quality ingredients and crafted with passion. The bread is particularly noteworthy, with its signature sourdough and other artisanal varieties standing out for their flavour and texture.
The café also offers a range of savoury options, including sandwiches, salads, and quiches, perfect for a light lunch or a hearty breakfast. The coffee is also top-notch, brewed to perfection and served alongside a variety of teas and hot chocolate.
Whether you're stopping by for a loaf of fresh bread or a leisurely afternoon tea, Hambleton Bakery and Café is sure to leave you satisfied and eager to return. Its commitment to quality, friendly service, and inviting atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for...
Read moreI visited this café for the first time on a warm, sunny Wednesday afternoon in June 2023. I was with my elderly mother. The café has been created beautifully. There is plenty of seating inside and outside on the terrace but, on a hot day, we chose to sit inside, as there are no parasols or any real shade on the terrace. The selection of sweet and savoury food is huge. We chose fruit scones with jam and clotted cream. Delicious!! We liked the look of the savoury items on display so much that we then ordered a sausage roll and a goat's cheese, spinach and red pepper tart, which were hot and really tasty. The service at the counter was extremely friendly and professional and the young lady who brought our food and drink to the table was delightful. A little bit pricey, of course but we expected that, given the location in the Rutland countryside and the food on offer. A great find though and we'll certainly return. I would definitely recommend. Update 11 Oct 2023. Wow! Fantastic soup, sourdough and focaccia then a fruit scone and custard tart. Really lovely, peaceful location, even better food and the young ladies serving...
Read more