John Lewis - Chelmsford

I went to the cafe for a sandwich. After checking the menu near the entrance, we went up to the second floor. Unfortunately, our first choice was not available at 12:15pm. We decided to try the main food options instead. We ordered the vegetarian pie with chips and the chicken with sweet potato chips and Asian slaw. The food was delicious and filling. Although the cakes looked tempting, we were too full to try them. At the checkout, we were a bit confused as we were asked about the sides we had ordered, which we didn't remember ordering. Despite this confusion, everything worked out in the end. The decor of the cafe is fresh, contemporary, and bright. Overall, I would recommend this place, but be prepared for it to be frequented by only white middle-class people.

My last few visits to the cafe have not been up to standard for what you would expect for John Lewis. Yesterday I visited the cafe again, hoping it may have improved but it really hasn 't! The whole cafe is in a muddle! It was 1pm on a Saturday and there was hardly any hot or cold food left, a choice between 2 prepacked sandwiches (tuna or egg). I don 't understand why the middle of the serving/ordering area is barricaded off, it makes the area look untidy and there isn 't a lot of space!? The ordering and serving food is confusing, people were unsure where to stand, where to order etc. I ordered a tea and was told there were no saucers because they 've not been washed up yet and I was given a small 'Nespresso ' spoon to stir my tea with. The tables were not cleared or clean, meaning you had to clear them yourself! I understand it has been difficult due to covid etc but this was low standards for John Lewis as I used to love the cafe, their fresh sandwiches etc.

At the cafe today! Unclear tables ...served coffee without a saucer and told there weren’t any clean...3 other tables next to me complaining of burnt toasties!! And wrong orders. Staff have no management or seem to acknowledge anything is wrong.. come on John Lewis we expect better!!!

No vegan cake choice at 1pm today is unacceptable. Cashier lacking in any customer service. Dirty table, Gone down hill

I was disappointed to find that there was no sourdough toast available, or any other bread for toast, even though it was only 11 am. Additionally, on a previous visit during lunch time, there were no children's sandwiches available, despite them being advertised as part of the children's box.