French Press Bakery & Cafe
74 Chapel St, Needham
(781) 400-2660
Recent Reviews
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Very good & convenient
cappuccino is 2/3 of a foam, and only 1/3 of a coffee.
Pours an excellent espresso shot.
Cute place that serves good food fast.
I was really excited to try this bakery — the pastry display case is absolutely stunning and many items looked delicious.
Unfortunately, the overall experience didn’t live up to the presentation. The atmosphere felt a bit cold and unwelcoming. There wasn’t clear signage or guidance on where to order, and though several of us were visibly confused, none of the staff offered any help. I eventually had to ask and was told to go to the register.
A young man in the back stood out in a very positive way — he wore a studded necklace, possibly had pink or purple hair, and greeted us with a kind smile. He brought some much-needed warmth to the space.
However, the service at the register was disappointing. As I started placing my order, a previous customer interrupted with a question. Rather than acknowledging me or asking the other person to wait, the cashier immediately turned away and responded. When she turned back to me, she just stared, and I had to restart my order all over again. Then the same customer interrupted again — and once again, the cashier prioritized them without even a quick “sorry” or “one moment.” I had to begin my order a second time and the young lady at the cash register came across as dismissive and unprofessional.
When I later asked the barista if I could get a straw, I was told, “You don’t need one — it’s a sip cup.” I understand the design, but straws are my preference, and I found the tone a little condescending. A polite explanation would have been much more respectful.
We tried the Swiss & thyme scone, which sounded amazing, but it was unfortunately a little dry, but it was tasty, and several of the other pastries did look promising, and the fried chicken items advertised for Fridays looked especially tempting.
Overall, the bakery clearly puts effort into its aesthetic, but the service and customer experience need attention. A bit of warmth, clearer direction, and basic courtesy would go a long way. If you’re going, I’d recommend it more for takeout than dining in
The decorative work on these pastries is 5 star. I tried the gluten free hazelnut chocolate cookie and did not like it. It was overwhelmingly cinnamon-y and the texture was like an oatmeal bar rather than a soft cookie. I also didn’t enjoy the vegan oat bar, which tasted overwhelmingly of coconut oil.
I DID enjoy the rooibos tea, which was a French tea brand I had never heard of: mariage freres.
It was a lovely subtle flavor, and the tea bags looked unbleached (though I did not verify that).
I would love to come back and try some of the not vegan or gluten free items, as my bakery impression was that things look amazing but have one controlling taste, but I know there was far more here than I tried.
Wheelchair accessibility: Two doors that do require a bit of force but all flat.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
I found this place by accident and was SO impressed with how delicious the food and coffee was but also how friendly and personable the owner was.
I 10/10 recommend this place!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Quaint local coffee shop. Good coffee, quick service
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Excellent quality food and pastries. Would love it if they had a bigger place with more seating!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Croissants, Quiche, Lemonade, Cardamom Bun
Great food. You can sit outside
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Croissants, Cod Fritters
Restaurantji Recommends
Some outdoor seats
Not a lot of indoor space
All looks delicious
The ham cheese croissant was a little disappointing
Food: 4
Hate to say this about a local business but…. Rude service from the barista, like actively mean as opposed to just a little unfriendly. And the coffee, mocha, and pastries we tried were only so so. I like trying different independent coffee shops but this one missed the mark for me.
It wasn’t horrible but it also wasn’t worth the premium price. Maybe they were just having an off day but I won’t be back to try them again. Disappointing.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 1
Everything was great . Especially lemonade. And peach danish
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Super tasty, the items on the menu felt unique and really well made. The socca was amazing.
Not satisfied with the service.
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