Thirsty Whale Bakery — Restaurant in Wayzata

Has anyone else had trouble getting a response from Thirsty Whale? After reading reviews from people who’ve had positive experiences, I’m honestly disappointed, especially considering they’re “Voted Best Bakery.”

I understand that they’re busy, but does it really take that much effort to respond to emails and potential customers who are genuinely interested in getting a quote for their cakes?

Last year, I reached out to Thirsty Whale in March 2024 for a custom cake quote for my baby shower, and they never replied. I let it go and ended up going with someone else. Fast forward to this year—it's my son's first birthday, and I wanted a special cake based on all the positive reviews and recommendations I had received. I reached out to them on Tuesday, 4/1/2025, but didn’t hear back until Thursday, 4/3/2025. And that response only came after I contacted them via Facebook Messenger, which went unanswered, but at least they replied to my email. * They should really put on their website what their turnaround time is for responding to custom cake inquiries. *

They mentioned needing clarification before providing an accurate quote. I responded within minutes, but I didn’t hear back until Sunday, 4/6/2025, but that was after I reached out to them. They replied the same day, apologizing for the delay due to a busy few days in the bakery. They finally gave me the quote, which was unfortunately out of my budget. I then replied asking if we could adjust the design inspiration I’d sent so it could fit within my budget, as I really wanted their cake for my son's first birthday.

Now, I’m still waiting for a response. I even sent a follow-up email, but why should I have to? Are customer inquiries not as important as walk-in customers? At this point, I’ll take my business elsewhere to a bakery that values both online and in-person customers and is...

This is a solid place to get a coffee and donut and maybe order a cake. You won’t find high end laminated dough creations here. Don’t expect a Kouign Amann or almond croissant and there are no fresh baguettes in baskets. This is coffee (and tea), cookies, cupcakes and donuts. I admit to being disappointed that it wasn’t something more…European. I had a Long John and London fog latte. Donut was just as one would expect - good hut nothing to write home about. My tea was good and also prepared correctly, which is honestly pretty rare! I suspect they know how to make a good cake. I also bought a cannoli to go. I took a bite before leaving and just tossed it. Soggy shell and a decent attempt at filling but not the real deal. It was too sweet and not dense enough. (I’m from New Jersey - I know cannolis.) I do think French inspired pastries would be a better fit for the Wayzata market, but those require great skill and training so it is often best to stick to what one knows. Service was decent, certainly polite, but staff was mostly interested in chatting with each other. Rent is very high so I hope they make it on their inventory. I doubt I will be back, which makes me sad. We really need a bakery/cafe in Wayzata, but it’s a very discerning clientele...

My boss ordered from here as a treat for everyone. She usually gets Glam Doll but wanted to try something different. If you're looking for over priced but mediocre gas station quality donuts donuts, the thirsty whale is the place to go. I spent many years as a baker and pastry chef so I can confidently say that nothing from this donut shop is made from scratch. The old fashioned donuts taste like the cheapest premade mix that comes in a 50 pound bag. All their frostings and fillings come out of a can or bucket and have a very artificial flavor and texture, and I wouldn't be surprised if the yeast donuts are made with premade frozen dough. I'm guessing they're more expensive because all that premade garbage costs more than making it from scratch. If you want a really good high quality donut, go somewhere else. Holiday and speedway gas stations even have better donuts. These donuts aren't worth...