I have a strange affection for this place. On certain days, I would go there in the early morning and order a hot oatmeal, a side of bacon (they have good bacon here), and a coffee, then choose a certain table where I consume my breakfast. Nothing special yet it feels calm and peaceful for me.
This morning we had kids sleeping over so I ordered 4 items to go (3 ham and cheese croissants with added eggs and 1 bacon egg croissant) and my usual hot oatmeal, side of bacon, medium coffee to be had there. The total came to about $50 and I tipped 10% so it came out to be about 55.54. I did not need to tip on food not consumed on premise but I did anyway just because I know the staff don't make much there. They brought out my food and a paper bag for the to go items. I did not check to see if all four items were in the bag. I went home and my wife opened the bag and there were only three items so she cut one croissant in halves for two boys to share.
I did not think much about it but after my online meeting I had to drive to Montgomery Mall and decided to stop at Corner Bakery to see if they had that extra sandwich still there. The African (as someone from Africa vs black American) person there always has an attitude towards me. One time I ordered my food but forgot to order coffee so because the line was super long and I needed to eat fast, I used a water cup to get maybe an ounce of coffee so I could drink with my food - totally not intending to cheat them or anything - just waiting for the line to clear so I could go order a large coffee. He caught me at my table drinking coffee from a plastic water cup and he sternly told me I should not do that. I apologized profusely and then went to order a large coffee as the line cleared. But since then I notice this man always looks at me the wrong way like I am a potential cheater.
Unfortunately for me he was the only one working the counter today. He made me wait a bit before he came to ask what I wanted. I said I ordered 4 breakfast items but only got 3. He immediately asked if I called in when I found out one item was missing. I said No, why should I? Calling in to report should be the same as coming in to report, what was the difference? He said ah, that's the point, you should have called in to speak to a manager who would tell us. Now you come in and tell me one item was missing, how do I know you...(implying that I may not be telling the truth). He asked if I had a receipt. Of course I did not because I threw the receipt out after finishing the hot oat meal but I had the credit card expense shown below to show I spent that much at their place this morning. He said I should have called in so they could track, otherwise how would he know. His logic was faulty: even if I could show a receipt, or the attached expense item - the fact that they brought out one item short would have been the same and could only be corroborated by trust and good will. Yet, he firmly stood his ground, not even interested in listening to what I had to say.
The missing item was 8 dollars, with tax and tip no more than 10. I had to come in to tell them because I thought it was a fun thing, the right thing to do, and not because I lose sleep over 10 bucks. This place is nothing special, their food is nothing special, yet there is something in me that enjoys sitting at the specific table once in a while drinking hot coffee (my coffee at home is 100 times better yet I still like drinking their terrible coffee occasionally) - and have my hot oatmeal and three slices of bacon. I realize that habit is a quirky thing and while I have grown to dislike that man, especially after today's encounter and implied insult and accusation from him that I might be lying, I do not want to drop that quirky habit. What I will do from now on is I will still come in but if I see that man working I am going to leave. He showed no respect to me as a repeat client, and for trashing my dignity as if I would steal coffee and a sandwich. Dude, I make 10 bucks every minute. I came in because I have a soft...
Read moreI was hesitant before writing this review because I wasn’t sure what I experienced was a big deal or not. But after reading some of the reviews here, I decided to write my own experience. I ordered online today for a quick lunch. When I entered the cafe and headed towards the counter, there were two staff members there. The lady was helping a customer and the other male staff was just talking and standing there. As soon as we made eye contact, he ignored me and went straight towards the kitchen like he didn’t want to serve me. I was standing there waiting to pick up my order. There were 3 staff members in that area that I was able to see (one was making coffee so I don’t blame him). I waited a bit and had to ask “anyone here?” just to get their attention. Actually only the lady had some reaction and asked me what I need. The other male staff kept himself inside the kitchen area. I actually could see him … he was not making food or anything. The lady helped me get my order. The food was great. I was a little disappointed with some of the staffs at this place. Feels like they select customers to serve. I used to order a lot more often at this place. But my kid is sometimes reluctant to go inside and pick up orders for me. You could...
Read moreCorner Bakery is a good option for a quick breakfast or lunch in Bethesda. They offer a diverse range of sandwiches, salads, soups, and baked goods that are ideal for an on-the-go meal or a relaxed lunch with friends.
One of the things that stands out about Corner Bakery is the freshness of their ingredients. The bakery items are also noteworthy at Corner Bakery. Their pastries are baked fresh every day and pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
The atmosphere at Corner Bakery is relaxed and inviting, with plenty of seating available for small and large groups. The staff is friendly and efficient, ensuring that you receive your order promptly and accurately.
On top of the excellent food and service, the staff was kind enough to surprise me with a complimentary brownie on my birthday, which was a nice touch. The brownie was rich and fudgy, and it was a delicious treat.
Overall, I recommend Corner Bakery for anyone seeking a convenient and tasty breakfast or lunch spot in Bethesda. The quality of their food, the freshness of their ingredients, and the welcoming atmosphere make this place a solid choice....
Read more