Burston Garden Centre - St Albans

Went as a solo treat for myself. My jacket potato was tepid. No butter with it and salad was limp. By the time I’d half eaten it the jacket potato was cold and inedible. I mentioned this to the staff saying I didn’t want a refund but I expected others having dinner there to have a better experience than a half warm reheated potato from yesterday. The onus was put onto me for not saying sooner. I’ve enjoyed lots of lovely lunches there and recommended it to friends, but sadly I won’t be returning. Suggest they purchase some food thermometers to ensure food is served at 75 degrees and maybe better customer service.

As you enter Burstons there is a sign encouraging the wearing of face masks and the majority of customers are doing so. The restaurant itself has been re-organised with tables socially distanced so this is all very reassuring. However what is the point of this if just one member of staff delivering orders to tables is not wearing a mask and is therefore breathing over the food and drink one is about to consume. Of course, all the staff may have to take COVID tests but the customers would not be aware of this. The food is always very good and deserves a good rating but that is not the point of this review.

What a lovely place . the staff were excellent very attentive and met us on arrival as I was unsure where to go . The food was perfect and generous portions . I would recommend this cafe and I will be returning again for lunch

Having avoided the cafe in Burston Garden Centre for a while (due to the scolding hot coffee they were serving) I decided to give them one more try. This time things were very different. Due to Covid orders are placed, and paid for, at the counter. Your order is then delivered to you. Each table has a sticker on to say it have been cleaned; this sticker is removed once your order is delivered. I liked their selection of cakes and, for once, my cappuccino was served at a sensible temperature. Burston Garden centre café restaurant has three seating areas: the main area, an area just outside (and to the left) of the exit doors from the main area, and an outside seating area.

Such a nice traditional cafe! Can’t say enough good things about their fresh fruit scones and surprising great coffee. Recommend the raspberry jam and clotted cream.