Willa's — Restaurant in Town of Catskill

Walked in early on a Saturday afternoon; lots of space, feels busy but not crowded - maybe 12-15 customers eating. Great vibe, but a very strange encounter at the counter left me scratching my head. I figured I’d make a note of it, because it provides a pretty clear glimpse at how they/some of their staff actually seem to think about their customers.

The guy behind the counter seemed really friendly, but he was quite passive aggressive…

He greeted me with “hi, do you need a minute?” Since I’d only been inside for maybe 8-10 seconds, I said yes.

Next thing he said was “ok but I need to let you know that the kitchen is busy, there’s a 30 min wait for food.” I said ok, and ordered 2 muffins from the display case. (Editor’s note: they were amazing. The vegan currant muffin alone is worth a trip to Catskill.)

I inquired about the handmade poppyseed bagels, of which only 2 were left - which is usually a good sign. He said “they’re really good.” I asked if they had any spread for them, and he said “cream cheese or butter” and then a moment later “but they would need to go through the kitchen.” So 30 mins for a bagel, I said. “More like 40”, he replied. I asked if they had a self serve option, with cream cheese on the side. He said “no, it has to go through the kitchen. Most people are happy to wait.” I’ve had some life changing bagels, I said. But none of them were worth 40 mins. “People disagree, they have the time; they sit down and have a conversation, and they wait.” I was alone and people were waiting for me outside, so I took my muffins and left.

That was it, that simple exchange. Nothing more, nothing less. No overt rudeness. Neither of us were unkind or raised our voice. But there was also no offer to go grab a dollop of cream cheese, no suggestion to take the bagel as is and unadorned. Nothing else… and while he maintained a smile throughout, the undertone of his communication was pretty hostile.

The spot is really cool and the muffins were so good. But to be honest, the most delicious food in the world can still leave a bitter taste in your mouth if the service makes you feel like you don’t matter.

Save yourself the heartache, and go check out Circles on Union in Hudson. Amazing food, even better people. They just opened, they act like they want your business, and are the sort of folks that actually deserve...

I am back after accidentally deleting my review while reading this establishments response to my previous review. Thought I would take the time to rewrite my post after this establishments owner took the time to respond.

Even after Willa’s response to my review my thoughts and feelings on my experience here have not wavered. 1.) the pastries were absolutely scrumptious 10/10 2.) do not come with a group larger than 6 or you will have limits on your order (6 pastries max). This was obviously disappointing to learn in the moment when walking in with a group of ten paying costumers. Willa’s response to this was that they are high in demand and want to ensure that other customers (especially their locals are able to enjoy) (even though we arrived later in the morning/ early afternoon on a Sunday). If we had come in separately we’d all be lucky enough to get some pastries. Dumb rule and I stand by those feelings. 3.) Drinks were mid and my group did not leave satisfied with them. Even if the owner says he heard us compliment them, I’m pretty positive we didn’t. Good lattes are hard to come by, can’t speak on their regular coffee, I’m sure it’s satisfactory. (I was told to specifically stay away from the chai lattes btw). 3.) The young man at the register was very nice. He did abide by the 6 max rule all too well. Counting down how many pastries we had left after every order. He was of course doing his job, it was just a bit over kill I’m sorry to say — but yes, he was very nice and was dealing with a large group of women (who might I add, were not difficult, just plentiful). 4.) overall, prices are good, lattes are mid, rule is dumb and can’t speak on the food cause we...

Wonderful all around, went the first week at their new Catskill location, only one bad thing about this place...we didn't discover it sooner during our vacation. The staff is all on point, friendly, welcoming and all taking a sense of ownership which is not easy especially during week one...kudos to them and the owners. The space was also very nice, big room, high ceilings and rustic touches warm up this industrial spot. The food was spot on, went for breakfast started with a couple pastries for the table to share and then some egg sandwiches and pancakes. I am a big fan on simple focused menus but only if everything is executed well and they did not disappoint. The quality of ingredients shine and the team back there knows what levers to pull in terms of sourcing and simple cooking. The potatoes were also the type of bites that you can't get out of your head. Some people say don't bother eating breakfast out because you can make the same stuff at home...after a few bites that notion will be challenged. I believe this place was in Hudson for a short while and just reopened after a hiatus in Catskill. Not sure of the back story but wish them well and much success, people will search for good food and that and more can be found at this gem of a spot. I left with a few regrets, I wish I didn't live 3 1/2 hours away and I wish I got some of those potatoes to go. Cheers to the...