I honestly hate writing reviews. I'm the kind of guy who doesn't like to bad mouth anyone or business -- especially in New York City, where running a small business is already tough enough. Prices are high, customers are demanding, and the last thing anyone needs is another negative comment online.
But once in a while, something happens so outrageous, so disrespectful, that you can't stay quiet. This is one of those moments.
I've been a loyal customer of Cafe Bench for over 10 years. I've brought friends here, studied here, and supported this place since the early days. But after my most recent visit, I can confidently say -- I will never be coming back.
I came in with a group of six, including my wife, who's pregnant and diabetic. She ordered a small matcha latte, which turned out to be incredibly sweet -- undrinkable, really. I went to the counter and politely explained the situation, asking if they could kindly remake it with no added sugar for medical reasons.
There were four employees behind the counter. The cashier mentioned the drink had five pumps of sugar (which is absurd, by the way) and went to ask her coworker what to do. That coworker checked with what seemed to be the manager -- a Hispanic man -- and came back to tell me I'd need to pay another $8.44 for a remake.
I was stunned. I wasn't asking for a refund, just a small accommodation for a legitimate health issue. I even suggested to simply add more milk or water to dilute it. But nope -- flat refusal. "Store policy."
Frustrated, I told them to just give me the drink back and returned to my table. I quietly told my group what happened, and as they looked over -- visibly confused -- that same "manager" looked right at us and smirked. When I met his gaze, he pressed his hands together, bowed, and smirked again. Why is he bowing?
Now, I don't want to throw around words like racism lightly, but as an Asian person, I cannot overstate how humiliating that gesture felt. My entire table saw it. We were shocked and disgusted. If I hadn't been there with small children, I would've walked out on the spot.
Let me say this as someone who's supported this café for a decade: Cafe Bench has gone completely downhill.
* The desserts are overloaded with sugar, chocolate, and ice cream -- style over substance.
* The drinks are overpriced and inconsistent.
* The staff is unprofessional, and in my case, downright disrespectful.
Years ago, I even used to study here until I learned from a former employee that the owner intentionally removed electrical outlets because she didn't like people staying too long. That tells you everything you need to know about how they view their customers.
And speaking of the owner -- I've since heard that in local Korean community that she doesn't have the best reputation due to similar rude and dismissive behavior. Sadly, after this experience, I believe it.
At this point, Cafe Bench is surviving purely on its décor and Instagram appeal -- not quality, not service, and certainly not integrity.
If you want better value, friendlier staff, and actual respect as a customer, I recommend Cafe Grey, Beans & Malt, or Cafe Auburndale -- all nearby and way ahead in every possible way.
As someone who's supported this business for 10+ years, it honestly pains me to say this -- but Cafe Bench, you've lost a loyal customer for good. read more