Eden Cafe Restaurant - St Albans

Went in to have lunch today and found 2 tables with patrons and the rest with all dirty dishes all over them. There were two girls behind the counter on their phones and talking to each other. Tables remained not cleared or cleaned. We commented that there was nowhere to sit that was not at a cleared or cleaned table. We did not see anybody in the carpark or hanging around so suspect that the people who were eating there had left some time earlier - enough time for the girls to clean and clear the tables. The cafe looked disorganised and unclean. We left without ordering as we thought if that is the way they leave their cafe - what would the kitchen be like.

Stopped for a quick bite on way home from enjoying the water views north and decided on the cafe instead of the bakery next door. It was after the normal lunch hour and there were only a handful of patrons left with obviously already-consumed meals. We found a comfy enough place to sit inside. We waited for the menus. My coffee order was taken. We browsed the menu. We waited. We looked around. We waited. And waited. Finally we were approached for our orders. "Oh. Did you get your coffee?" she asked. "No. Still waiting" I replied. She hurried to the counter at other end of room to check on my coffee order. Meanwhile she hadn't yet taken our order. I waited. She came back with my coffee but the barrista called out to her. Apparently the coffee she brought wasn't my coffee. The barrista said she had mine in a takeaway cup by mistake. I said "That's ok. If it's already in a takeaway cup I'll have it.""No no I'll make you another" she called out cheerfully. Right. No point getting upset. I just needed my coffee quickly. We placed our food orders. Then we waited. The coffee arrived. In a takeaway cup. I was so taken aback, I didn't realise she'd forgotten the milk. So I smiled as I got up with the paper cup and walked to the counter to ask for milk. The barista turned to her colleague and said "you forgot her milk?" She handed me the mini milk jug and I added the milk to my coffee and walked back to my table. Half an hour later, our meals arrived. My pancakes were beyond cold. And she'd forgotten the ice cream. I cannot fault the friendly nature of the two young staff serving at the cafe. But if you want a quick meal or good coffee, find someplace else. Such a pity.

I haven't been here for a while but I have come upon hearing of new owners. The old ones were average to say the least. Great coffee and realty friendly service i will definitely be coming back!!! Good riddance to the rubbish that was once here. Thank goodness there's a decent local again. Thanks guys for a genuinely nice experience! You were welcoming to my whole family and the food was fantastic.

I have been here several times together with a large group of friends. We don't book but are always accommodated. Afeature is that parking in this centre is relatively easy. The staff are very helpful & friendly & the menu is comprehensive with some exceptionally good offerings. The food is good, the service is attentive & prompt & prices are very reasonable. My wife & I enjoy the relaxed pleasant atmosphere of a cafe with plenty of space & serving good coffee & food.

Found this coffee house by default and have to say it's been a great find. Coffee so far has been very good, rich taste, no burning, correct temperature and served with a smile.