The Place To Eat - Welwyn Hatfield

Whilst shopping decided to have a drink and cake in the cafe. There were no plates available to put your cake on if you decided to have the help yourself scones or buns. Two elderly customers in front of us put their cakes on the tray. A customer put two Chelsea buns on the tray and then Picked them up and put them back. We asked for the cream tea offer and we’re told to go back and get the scones ourselves. The clotted cream was warm and had a film on top. An elderly customer was struggling at the counter to get his purchases on his tray and the staff just stood there and did not help. The staff were not polite and seemed as if they did not want to be there. Whatever has happened to John Lewis. It used to be a pleasure to go in the cafe.

I visited the cafe at Welwyn JL for lunch today. Previously, I had always enjoyed my visits there, but I was disappointed this time. Every member of our party had to scan a COVID code, not just one person. Additionally, we had to show a green tick in order to be allowed to enter. We were also told we could not bring our basket of purchases with us, supposedly to prevent coffee spills. By the time we were able to enter, there was very limited food available at 12.15 pm, mostly just sandwiches and a few ciabatta. The food that was available was not well displayed, making it difficult to see if there were any hot food options, like soup. I would not recommend dining here. John Lewis, you need to improve your service in order to retain customers.

The John Lewis restaurant is all right but doesn't reach great heights. The layout of the serveries always confuses me (where does one go? ; coffee and cakes are reliable but the sandwiches and lunches are simply overpriced.

On January 18th, I went to The Place to Eat for a meal. I was disappointed with my experience as the croissant I ordered was chewy, the coffee was lukewarm, and the restaurant was very cold even though I was wearing a coat. Unfortunately, the low temperature forced me to leave.

Had a lovely visit today. Cafe was clearly busy but every single staff member was cheerful and efficient. In particular a lady called Val, who was wonderful and personable. She couldn’t have been more helpful and it was heartwarming to see her continuing this to the customers behind us too, offering a small mug so that a father could share his soup. Certainly filled us full of Christmas spirit! John Lewis know how to train their staff, we’ve never had a bad visit to be honest! Butternut soup was delicious and the vegan options have tripled since last year. I was torn!