Viv's in Henley — Restaurant in South Oxfordshire

Ridiculously overpriced, uncomfortably hot setting and some rather unpleasant staff. We settled on eating here as two of the local pubs we tried first were shut. It was late, we were hungry and it looked nice. We were met at door with sign asking to wait to be seated and when we confirmed four, we were told to sit anywhere anyway...what was the point? Sign on floor at back indicated it might be slippy so I assumed they had maybe recently mopped, sadly they didn't let us know there was a large puddle. I did when I put my bag in it though! We moved table and the food arrived, well three plates out of four did. To be fair, when I asked the girl about the missing plate, she rushed off to sort it and was very polite. It took a while to come out though and by that time the rest of us were almost done. It was a ridiculously hot day outside but it was even worse in the cafe. So much so, that a little while into the fourth sandwich we decided to ask for a doggy bag to take out with us. They offer take away so didn't think it would be an issue and, to one girl, it wasn't a problem. The girl behind the counter didn't seem happy with us though. I very nicely explained to her, even complimenting how well they were all doing working in the heat, etc while I asked to pay. Almost £40 for 4 sandwiches with a few crisps on plate and a soft drink and the machine prompted me for 'gratuity'. Not being impressed with the service I toyed with leaving nothing but, as some of the staff were young, I did add a little something. I even threw a couple of extra pound coins in their tip cup on the counter which, quite honestly, wasn't deserved. Especially when my daughter could tell me the girl serving at counter pulled a face and was rude about me when I turned away! Walk on by, people...we will defintely not be...

We had PG Tips 2 for 1 voucher. I called ahead to find out what was and wasn't included and was told that we could choose any of the three afternoon tea items on their menu.I was told there were not any stipulations to the 2 for one PG Tips voucher. We ordered the Royal Henley Cream tea which was priced £9.50. This includes a round of sandwiches and 2 scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam and a cup of tea. Our plate of sandwiches came quickly and were with crusts on. Over 20 minutes later and only when I could finally get the waitress's attention did we get our scones and tea. We had been forgotten. The first waitress had gone on her break and didn't say we had more to come. The two large scones both had sultanas.. The clotted cream was generous and delicious The scones were stale. Our pot of tea gave only one cup of tea each and no more. We really did not enjoy the afternoon tea. What a let down! When we paid, they charged £12.50. When I asked why it was not £9.50 she said it because we had an extra plate of sandwiches. On the menu it said one round of sandwiches for 1 cream tea so this is incorrect. I told her I disagreed but really had had enough of the The Chocolate Cafe experience and was happy to be leaving. While no one was outwardly rude their indifference to us was extremely annoying. I live close to Henley so do eat in Henley quite frequently. I would advise anyone who is looking to have a nice afternoon tea to go elsewhere. The Upstairs Vintage Tea shop on Duke Street would be a more pleasant experience. I will not be giving my custom to The Chocolate Cafe because of such poor...

The Chocolate Cafe is an artist paradise and packs in a lot. There is lots to take in while eating here.

The food was tasty and the hot chocolate was very good. Service is slow and during busy periods you can wait for ages before being seated and attended to.

If you would like to takeaway after having eaten at this café, best to order at the same time you order your sit down food, otherwise you will struggle to get service at the counter.

Breakfast is amazing and the atmosphere inside The Chocolate Cafe is vibrant and extremely colourful. Local artists display their goods from bags, cushions, crockery to paintings, which you can buy. On occasion one of the artists may be seen on the premises. Prices of goods can be on the pricey side, but worth it when getting unusual stand out pieces. Food and drink are reasonably priced.

You can book in advance to avoid disappointment and waiting around. However, on Mother's / Father's Day and any other memorable occasion in the calendar the café does not take bookings due to the high demand of people that decide to frequent this quant essential café.

Overall it can be a little noisy but not enough for you not to hear the people you are with. Staff came across as pleasant and helpful.

Across the road from The Chocolate Cafe is the river. You can take a stroll by the river either before or after having eaten at this café. To not be disappointed it is best to arrive as early as possible as parking is extremely limited in...