The Bakery — Restaurant in Mole Valley

I popped into The Bakery Ashtead hoping for a sweet treat and a warm welcome. Instead, only 5 cakes left (at 11 and they're open til 4???,) I got the last Chelsea bunny, a Victoria sponge, two rolls… and a side of audible sighs.

The girl behind the counter looked like she'd just been asked to climb Everest in flip-flops. Every movement was a dramatic performance of reluctance, sighing, huffing, and serving with the enthusiasm of a damp tea towel. Even her “have a good day” sounded like a threat.

The cakes were decent, but the vibe? More stale than the last roll on the shelf. If customer service were a bake, this one came out undercooked and full of air pockets.

Would I go back? Maybe, if I’m in the mood for baked goods and a live reenactment of...

I popped in whilst waiting for an appointment and had a lovely experience! The yummy butterscotch tart took my eye as I came in so I took one of those and a bacon roll. I sat on a clean table, reading a book whilst listening to the two lovely ladies behind the counter greet their regulars, showing concern for one they hadn't seen yet. It wasn't a planned visit, but one I definitely enjoyed....

Rude and unfriendly staff. Can’t stand when you walk in somewhere and people are rude for no reason. It’s the 3rd time now been in there and lady behind counter is just rude! Yes sandwiches are very well filled, but coronation chicken is sooo bland, just loads of curry powder and mayo, no chutney or currants. Really wish I spent my £20 in M&S...