Back Alley Bakery & Cafe — Restaurant in Hastings

I'll start by acknowledging that it was a busy Saturday morning during our visit, so I understand what comes with that. However, there are things that can still be controlled during busy times, and I believe this is where Back Alley was lacking. Firstly, we (my girlfriend and I) were seated and greeted and received the drinks we asked for. My coffee was good. About five to ten minutes later a large group of six to seven people were seated at a table next to us. For whatever reason, their order was taken before us, as we were still sipping our drinks. Our order was taken shortly after that and we proceeded to wait for almost 40 minutes for our meals to arrive. During that same time, another table of 1, received his food before us in addition to the large group. This was very frustrating, but still, I understand that servers make mistakes, especially during busy times. Our food finally arrives and there was no acknowledgement of our long wait time...I ordered the "hungry man breakfast burrito" which includes 3 meats. I was very disappointed to find that 90% of the burrito was scrambled eggs and there was VERY LITTLE meat. The potatoes on the side were good....crispy exterior with a soft inside and seasoned well. Overall, it was a very subpar experience. On a positive note, the servers were polite and the environment was nice. Back Alley can improve by 1. taking food orders in the correct order that guests are seated 2. Acknowledge wait times if they're long ("thanks for waiting and being patient, we're pretty busy this morning.") 3. Put more of what is described on your menu into the actual food. These are all things that can be controlled, even during busy times, which can turn a subpar experience into a good one. I hope Back Alley improves, as I like to support local businesses and I hope they succeed. But as for now, I'll go elsewhere for breakfast.

EDIT AFTER OWNER RESPONSE: allowing you the opportunity to remake the food might be reasonable on a slow day, but after already waiting 40 minutes (being very hungry at the time) and having to wait...

Following a review made earlier this week, I want to provide an important update.

While the bakery’s response to the review left stated that a reimbursement check had been mailed the previous week after our service issues, we received the check today—Thursday, May 15—and it was postmarked Tuesday, May 13, which is actually the day after the review was posted. This directly contradicts their statement that it had already been sent.

Additionally, the reimbursement amount we received was less than 50% of the total cost, despite being told we would be fully reimbursed due to multiple issues with our order: a 45 minute wait for the order to be sent to the kitchen, two missing sides, and our staff lunch being late for a scheduled meeting due to the issues.

We were assured the full amount would be refunded, but that was not the case. This has been a frustrating and disappointing experience that speaks to poor communication and a lack of follow-through on promises made to customers.

It's unfortunate when management does not hold themselves accountable for resolving customer services issues in a timely manner. The response by management to this negative experience could have turned our opinion back around, and guaranteed we would do business in the bakery again and never mention this issue in a review. Sad to say that is...

The service here is consistently warm and attentive, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting. I will say, as a brown woman, I often find myself the only person of color in the space, and the stares from some patrons can feel uncomfortable. It’s not a reflection on the staff, who are lovely but it’s worth noting for others who value inclusive vibes.

Now, onto the food: it’s a little on the pricey side for what’s offered, but the quality makes it worth it. I’ve tried the turkey bacon ranch wrap and the flaming chicken sandwich both were solid, but I highly recommend the wrap, especially paired with their fresh side salad.

Dessert is where this place truly shines. I’ve had the chocolate turtle cheesecake, the pecan cheesecake, and a cherry chocolate cupcake. The cheesecakes? Hands down the best I’ve ever had rich, balanced, and unforgettable. The cupcake was a bit too sweet for my taste, but it had a satisfying heft that made it feel indulgent.

If you’re going to try anything, make it the cheesecake and the wrap. I’ll definitely be...