Higher Grounds at 32 Main — Restaurant in East Haddam

My friends and I visited this spot for the first time with the intention of supporting a local small business — unfortunately, the experience was incredibly disappointing.

We ordered two coffees and an iced tea/lemonade drink, which turned out to be nothing more than a cup of water with a black tea bag tossed in. At $8.50 per drink, I expected far more — especially when the tea wasn’t even steeped. I also ordered a black bean burger, which was decent, but definitely not worth a 40-minute wait, especially with the kind of service we received.

After waiting 20 minutes for three very simple drinks, I approached the pickup window to check on the order. The staff looked directly at me but ignored me completely for another five minutes before eventually placing the drinks on the counter without a word, only saying, “Food will be out in a bit.”

Another 20 minutes passed with no sign of the food. I went inside to check, and the man at the counter dismissively said, “Oh, did I buzz you yet?” When I explained I was just making sure we weren’t forgotten, the excuse was that “everyone came at once” — which simply wasn’t true. We were among the first to order, and when we arrived, the place was nearly empty aside from one guest who was already eating. By the time I went back inside, other patrons who ordered after us had already been served.

To make matters worse, when we first arrived, we were told we couldn’t order inside because we were getting takeout — despite the café being nearly empty. The inconsistency, the long wait, and the rude treatment throughout made the entire visit frustrating.

As someone who has worked in the food industry for years, I know how challenging it can be — but basic courtesy and communication go a long way. You simply can’t combine poor service with mediocre food and overpriced drinks and expect people to return.

I truly want to support small businesses, even if the prices are high — but the experience needs to match. Sadly, won’t be coming back; I’d strongly recommend you avoid this place and save...

Absolutely the BEST. The owners, Chris and Kim, are full of energy, love and living life to the max. From the intimate atmosphere (4 stools at the bar, one table for four, three for two plus upstairs and outdoor seating) to the amazing assortment of art and artifacts (including hand blown glass vases and balls created by Chris) covering the walls with fascinating paintings, many for sale, the wonder of eating here alone is fabulous. BUT, all the ingredients for the menu are grown or raised within five miles of the restaurant; specials each day and the corned beef hash is spectacular. Then, each Thursday, the Dynamic Duo, Ben and Will, man the restaurant (Will chef, Ben waiter et al) take the restaurant for their special experience: from both dancing as they take your order, cook your food, serve you, present your bill to their full excitement permeating the space with rhythm and energy. A fall back to the Hippie days, a fall forward to creating a high standard for a small wonderful place to enjoy life and eating. Become one of us, their guests...we found them a year ago and visit Higher Grounds at least once a week. Set your sights higher and try Higher Grounds! Julian Bills...

I honestly don't know where the "good" reviews came from. Probably relatives and friends. First off, I have NEVER been to a restaurant where there are no prices anywhere. Why? Guy says prices change constantly because of where he gets HIS food? Ummm. Ok. That's just a way to pork people as much as they want honestly. Food took forever. Was below mediocre. Then we got home fries that were not even good. No joke about 10 TINY TINY PIECES of potato on a plate. Not even enough to feed a toddler. They were gross. Owner has the AUDACITY to charge FIVE DOLLARS for a side of homefries that were gross and the tiniest little pile you've ever seen. That is absolutely SHAMFUL!!! We go to breakfast places all the time and have NEVER been charged FIVE dollars for a couple pieces of potato. And when we mentioned it to the owner he stated...."but they are fresh made" ummmm WHAT??? Aren't they at MOST restaurants??? Also got orange juice. A MINI little glass for 3.50!!! The bill was 40.00 dollars for 2 tiny little mediocre meals. I spend that much getting a great filling meal at cheesecake factory! Needless to say I will never be back. Shame on the business owner for porking...