Hope Cafe - Castlereagh

I am visiting from Harvard University for work and needed a quick meal before my long day on Thursday the 20th. The food at Café Hope was excellent, and the selection of sweet treats was outstanding! The greatest asset of this place is definitely the staff. I was served by David, who was incredibly friendly and very knowledgeable about local attractions in Belfast when I inquired about things to do on my days off. The decor is modern, bright, and spacious, making it perfect for someone like me who travels with an entire office in their backpack! Overall, the food was fantastic, but the service was exceptional. Keep up the great work, everyone!

I visited the café during the break between terms for coffee and a snack. I stood at the counter for quite a while, watching three staff members nearby, before someone finally noticed me and asked if I needed assistance. I was informed that it was table service, which seems a bit unusual for a university café. The food and drinks were good, and the service was friendly, but the prices were about 20% higher than those at most chain coffee shops.

I purchased two small tray bakes to take away, and they cost me £4.50, which I find to be quite overpriced, especially for a university catering mostly to students. The server was rude and unwelcoming, making for a very unpleasant experience. I won’t be returning anytime soon.

Great location and could be an ideal place for a very pleasant lunch or coffee. I have, however, given up hoping that the food will improve. It is consistently bad. It is a great pity because under the right management, it could be a wonderful asset to have beside the park.

I come here quite frequently due the fact that the coffee shop is attached to the main library in the university. Service is poor, I’ve waited 30 min to be given a menu before, food is basic and rarely good, I’ve been served cold soup on a couple of occasions, the crockery has also been dirty when presented to the table more than once. The only reason I can see for this place still being in business is it’s locality and student clientele.