I wish I could say the food was great, but it was only good. Except for the lemon tart. For the tart there are insufficient superlatives- possibly the best I’ve ever eaten. Service was very friendly but a little uneven. The leather wingback chairs made for a very comfortable dining environment, and overall the atmosphere was vibrant and enjoyable.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 3
Service: 3
Nicole Lauriault
Café Bouffon is an absolute gem in Stratford. The food is consistently delicious, but the brunch burger is the real standout — perfectly cooked, packed with flavour, and unbelievably good even at 10 a.m. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the staff are fantastic: friendly, attentive, and always making you feel right at home. If you’re looking for a brunch spot that delivers great food and genuinely excellent service, Café Bouffon is a must-visit.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Melissa
Went here on a Sunday around 11:00 AM and it was already pretty busy. We didn’t have a reservation but luckily only had to wait ~5 mins for an outdoor table (inside looked mostly booked up). If you want one of the nice tables indoors with art, chandeliers, and a cozy ambiance, I’d recommend reserving. The space itself is beautiful.
Staff were kind overall, though a bit rushed/unsure at times.
Food came out really quickly (about 5 mins). We got: • Smoked salmon eggs Benedict + fries (me): fries were tasty and crispy. Eggs were breaded/fried which gave them a nice crunch, and the muffins were good. Salmon was fresh but a bit on the salty side, and the hollandaise was so light/mild that it got absorbed into the muffin instead of standing out. • Soufflé w/ potatoes, bravas sauce + greens (friend): one side was a little overcooked and the flavor overall was pretty mild, but the lemony greens were a nice touch.
Prices are on the higher side. Not unreasonable given the atmosphere and quality of ingredients, but with a few small misses in the dishes it did feel a little steep.
Overall: Gorgeous café with a really lovely ambiance (especially indoors if you reserve), quick service, and friendly staff. Food was a mix — some things stood out, others less so. I’d consider coming back to try different dishes :)
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 4
Adam Sherkin
Second visit here and it was not a happy one. The meal was overvalued and of poor quality; burger was overcooked to the point of being burnt. It was a busy Saturday night but the overall experience was underwhelming, despite our server being lovely.
Cannot recommend to friends and colleagues re: quality of food and high prices (wine included). Simply put, there are better options for these prices in Stratford.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 1
Service: 3
Mandy
I was really looking forward to trying Café Bouffon in Stratford after hearing some good things, but unfortunately, my experience didn’t live up to the expectations. I ordered the French toast and a crepe, and while both tasted fine, the portions were surprisingly small — the crepe was gone in just a few bites, and the French toast was just a single piece of bread drowning in syrup.
When the bill arrived, it came to $61, which felt extremely high for what was served. The presentation was nice, and the café itself has a lovely atmosphere, but the value just wasn’t there for me. For the price, I expected something a bit more substantial and memorable.
It’s a charming spot, but I’d love to see portion sizes or pricing adjusted to better match the experience.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 1
Service: 3
Thea Decaire
We were extremely disappointed with our experience at Café Bouffon in Stratford on October 19, 2025. I had booked an engagement brunch weeks in advance for 25–35 guests. I spoke with Carly by phone when booking, and she told me to email Steve, who confirmed our reservation for 30 people. When we arrived at 10 a.m., the space was not set up at all. My sister tried to help arrange seating, but Carly snapped at her, saying “I was told 25 people” in a rude and dismissive tone. She claimed she had emailed me to confirm, but I never received any message from her in my inbox, and the restaurant never called, even though they had my number. When my sister pointed to a nearby table for two and asked if we could use it, Carly replied sharply, “It’s reserved.” That table sat empty the entire time we were there, and the restaurant itself was at least half empty until we left at 11:30 a.m. Throughout the brunch, the atmosphere remained uncomfortable. At one point, a waitress told guests, “You guys need to stop moving now, it’s going to make taking orders confusing,” which could have been handled far more politely. We had chosen Café Bouffon because of its reputation for quality and class, but our experience was the opposite: disorganized, tense, and disappointing. The engaged couple we were celebrating left anxious and deflated instead of happy and relaxed. This was supposed to be a special event, and sadly, it was anything but.
Reply to owners comment on OP.
Thank you for your response. I understand and respect that you want to stand behind your staff, but I would like to clarify a few details. After reading your reply, I double-checked and did find a confirmation email from Carly. It was the first time she had ever emailed me, and it went straight to my junk folder. All previous communication had been through your manager, Steve, who confirmed the booking for 30 guests, not 25. When we arrived, only a few tables were set up, and there were not enough seats even for 25 guests if that was the number you were expecting. Staff were clearly flustered trying to rearrange tables and accommodate people as they came in. Even though some guests arrived late, there still wasn’t sufficient seating for those who were already there. The engaged couple, who did not plan the event, overheard the commotion and were understandably anxious about the situation. The complimentary drinks and desserts were very much appreciated but were something Steve and I had discussed beforehand when we decided to book the brunch, not a response to what happened that day. I have no interest in misrepresenting or defaming Café Bouffon. I organized this event in good faith for 30 paying guests, many of whom are local to Stratford, and we were all genuinely excited to celebrate there. Unfortunately, the experience left everyone disappointed, which is all my original review was meant to reflect.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 2
Service: 1
iwona oleksiak
We visited twice this wonderful place last weekend. We were fortunate enough to have same waiter both visit. Miles was very knowledgeable about food and drinks, he also was super pleasant, fast with service and with sense of humor. Food was absolutely delicious. Their duck is better than one I had in Paris France and the best one I ever had. Drinks were creative and there was a plenty of choices. Highly recommending
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ron Peel
We dined here 4 times in 2 days. We sat at the bar, outside, at a high top and in the dining room. Thomas, Melanie, Nico, and so many others. The PEI Oysters were amazingly fresh! The blended brisket beef burger was incredible! The French toast with blueberry compote was a perfect start to Sunday. The Pickerel was unexpectedly finished. The Cod croquettes were outstanding and perfect with the local cloudy IPA, French Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. The French 75, Manhattan and Tart Cherry Gimlet cocktails were delightful. One stop back into Michigan and we were so missing Cafe Buffon. We can’t wait to return! Peace to you all, and thank you!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Wendy MCMURRAY
Lovely decor and delicious food!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Mac Kropf
I could drink Iced Vanilla Lattes here all day long!
Hostess was the rockstar of our visit and showed us where our seats would be once the table was wiped down. Also offered a colouring book for the toddler.
No one came to greet us or offer us a menu after we sat down. We had to get the menu ourselves. When we were ready to order we had to flag down the hostess. She was also unable to find our server and had to take our order instead. No one came to refill water until we flagged someone down and asked, no one came to ask us about our food or whether we needed anything else. We flagged someone down for a bill and the only time anyone promptly showed up was when it was time to pay the bill. Apart from the hostess truly awful service.
Plastic cutlery we requested for the toddler was compostable and brittle. Broke while trying to cut and eat french toast.
Only one washroom stall for all customers, so expect a line. Clean and cute though!
Convenient to book a reservation on Google.
Food was acceptable and cappuccino was nice, but not worth the trek here in light of the service.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 1
René Fréchette
A solid place, and a positive brunch experience. Two of us went for the eggs Benedict: it is a generous portion. The third one had avocado toasts. We were all pleased.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Tina Smith
As a regular guest over many years and a Festival member I book my reservations way in advance. That being said said when we arrived this evening for our dinner we were seated no where near my request near a window but beside the serves station. We asked the rather arrogant host if we could be moved and he said no that’s the best they could do.. when we left I mentioned to the host I was tea disappointed in how we were treated… I will never return to Cafe Bouffon again😞
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 1
Ruth Henrich
From the moment you walk in, the experience is different - you are a valued client. The coffee was really good. But the breakfast — was superb! I had the mushroom Benedict - the best Benedict I have ever had! The poached egg was perfect. The mushrooms, devine. On top of sourdough bread!!!! It demanded slow eating to savour every bite. My table mates said the same about their dishes. The table was quiet as we focussed on our meal. A happy table is a quiet table in our family. They were very attentive to a food allergy which has usually been met with with a sigh or no alternatives being suggested. We suggested a different sauce and it turned out amazing. Cafe Bouffon’s signature breakfast bun is to die for. It is a creative play on the croissant that will leave me craving this for weeks to come. I think I’ll crave this restaurant for years. Well done!🥰🥰🥰
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Rachel
I am a server at a high-end restaurant, so I’m usually very picky on my service. This place blew me out of the water though! Our server Miles was fantastic and very knowledgeable about all of the menu items. He was fun to talk to but also never interrupted an ongoing conversation. He also convinced us to try crème brûlée, which was amazing! I’ve never had it before, and I was absolutely blown away. I would eat here again in a heartbeat!
I wish I could say the food was great, but it was only good. Except for the lemon tart. For the tart there are insufficient superlatives- possibly the best I’ve ever eaten. Service was very friendly but a little uneven. The leather wingback chairs made for a very comfortable dining environment, and overall the atmosphere was vibrant and enjoyable.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 3
Service: 3
Café Bouffon is an absolute gem in Stratford. The food is consistently delicious, but the brunch burger is the real standout — perfectly cooked, packed with flavour, and unbelievably good even at 10 a.m. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the staff are fantastic: friendly, attentive, and always making you feel right at home. If you’re looking for a brunch spot that delivers great food and genuinely excellent service, Café Bouffon is a must-visit.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Went here on a Sunday around 11:00 AM and it was already pretty busy. We didn’t have a reservation but luckily only had to wait ~5 mins for an outdoor table (inside looked mostly booked up). If you want one of the nice tables indoors with art, chandeliers, and a cozy ambiance, I’d recommend reserving. The space itself is beautiful.
Staff were kind overall, though a bit rushed/unsure at times.
Food came out really quickly (about 5 mins). We got:
• Smoked salmon eggs Benedict + fries (me): fries were tasty and crispy. Eggs were breaded/fried which gave them a nice crunch, and the muffins were good. Salmon was fresh but a bit on the salty side, and the hollandaise was so light/mild that it got absorbed into the muffin instead of standing out.
• Soufflé w/ potatoes, bravas sauce + greens (friend): one side was a little overcooked and the flavor overall was pretty mild, but the lemony greens were a nice touch.
Prices are on the higher side. Not unreasonable given the atmosphere and quality of ingredients, but with a few small misses in the dishes it did feel a little steep.
Overall: Gorgeous café with a really lovely ambiance (especially indoors if you reserve), quick service, and friendly staff. Food was a mix — some things stood out, others less so. I’d consider coming back to try different dishes :)
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 4
Second visit here and it was not a happy one. The meal was overvalued and of poor quality; burger was overcooked to the point of being burnt. It was a busy Saturday night but the overall experience was underwhelming, despite our server being lovely.
Cannot recommend to friends and colleagues re: quality of food and high prices (wine included). Simply put, there are better options for these prices in Stratford.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 1
Service: 3
I was really looking forward to trying Café Bouffon in Stratford after hearing some good things, but unfortunately, my experience didn’t live up to the expectations. I ordered the French toast and a crepe, and while both tasted fine, the portions were surprisingly small — the crepe was gone in just a few bites, and the French toast was just a single piece of bread drowning in syrup.
When the bill arrived, it came to $61, which felt extremely high for what was served. The presentation was nice, and the café itself has a lovely atmosphere, but the value just wasn’t there for me. For the price, I expected something a bit more substantial and memorable.
It’s a charming spot, but I’d love to see portion sizes or pricing adjusted to better match the experience.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 1
Service: 3
We were extremely disappointed with our experience at Café Bouffon in Stratford on October 19, 2025. I had booked an engagement brunch weeks in advance for 25–35 guests. I spoke with Carly by phone when booking, and she told me to email Steve, who confirmed our reservation for 30 people.
When we arrived at 10 a.m., the space was not set up at all. My sister tried to help arrange seating, but Carly snapped at her, saying “I was told 25 people” in a rude and dismissive tone. She claimed she had emailed me to confirm, but I never received any message from her in my inbox, and the restaurant never called, even though they had my number.
When my sister pointed to a nearby table for two and asked if we could use it, Carly replied sharply, “It’s reserved.” That table sat empty the entire time we were there, and the restaurant itself was at least half empty until we left at 11:30 a.m.
Throughout the brunch, the atmosphere remained uncomfortable. At one point, a waitress told guests, “You guys need to stop moving now, it’s going to make taking orders confusing,” which could have been handled far more politely.
We had chosen Café Bouffon because of its reputation for quality and class, but our experience was the opposite: disorganized, tense, and disappointing. The engaged couple we were celebrating left anxious and deflated instead of happy and relaxed.
This was supposed to be a special event, and sadly, it was anything but.
Reply to owners comment on OP.
Thank you for your response. I understand and respect that you want to stand behind your staff, but I would like to clarify a few details. After reading your reply, I double-checked and did find a confirmation email from Carly. It was the first time she had ever emailed me, and it went straight to my junk folder. All previous communication had been through your manager, Steve, who confirmed the booking for 30 guests, not 25.
When we arrived, only a few tables were set up, and there were not enough seats even for 25 guests if that was the number you were expecting. Staff were clearly flustered trying to rearrange tables and accommodate people as they came in. Even though some guests arrived late, there still wasn’t sufficient seating for those who were already there. The engaged couple, who did not plan the event, overheard the commotion and were understandably anxious about the situation.
The complimentary drinks and desserts were very much appreciated but were something Steve and I had discussed beforehand when we decided to book the brunch, not a response to what happened that day.
I have no interest in misrepresenting or defaming Café Bouffon. I organized this event in good faith for 30 paying guests, many of whom are local to Stratford, and we were all genuinely excited to celebrate there. Unfortunately, the experience left everyone disappointed, which is all my original review was meant to reflect.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 2
Service: 1
We visited twice this wonderful place last weekend. We were fortunate enough to have same waiter both visit.
Miles was very knowledgeable about food and drinks, he also was super pleasant, fast with service and with sense of humor.
Food was absolutely delicious. Their duck is better than one I had in Paris France and the best one I ever had.
Drinks were creative and there was a plenty of choices. Highly recommending
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We dined here 4 times in 2 days. We sat at the bar, outside, at a high top and in the dining room. Thomas, Melanie, Nico, and so many others. The PEI Oysters were amazingly fresh! The blended brisket beef burger was incredible! The French toast with blueberry compote was a perfect start to Sunday. The Pickerel was unexpectedly finished. The Cod croquettes were outstanding and perfect with the local cloudy IPA, French Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. The French 75, Manhattan and Tart Cherry Gimlet cocktails were delightful. One stop back into Michigan and we were so missing Cafe Buffon. We can’t wait to return! Peace to you all, and thank you!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Lovely decor and delicious food!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I could drink Iced Vanilla Lattes here all day long!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Yikes. Awful service.
Hostess was the rockstar of our visit and showed us where our seats would be once the table was wiped down. Also offered a colouring book for the toddler.
No one came to greet us or offer us a menu after we sat down. We had to get the menu ourselves. When we were ready to order we had to flag down the hostess. She was also unable to find our server and had to take our order instead. No one came to refill water until we flagged someone down and asked, no one came to ask us about our food or whether we needed anything else. We flagged someone down for a bill and the only time anyone promptly showed up was when it was time to pay the bill. Apart from the hostess truly awful service.
Plastic cutlery we requested for the toddler was compostable and brittle. Broke while trying to cut and eat french toast.
Only one washroom stall for all customers, so expect a line. Clean and cute though!
Convenient to book a reservation on Google.
Food was acceptable and cappuccino was nice, but not worth the trek here in light of the service.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 1
A solid place, and a positive brunch experience. Two of us went for the eggs Benedict: it is a generous portion. The third one had avocado toasts. We were all pleased.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
As a regular guest over many years and a Festival member I book my reservations way in advance. That being said said when we arrived this evening for our dinner we were seated no where near my request near a window but beside the serves station. We asked the rather arrogant host if we could be moved and he said no that’s the best they could do.. when we left I mentioned to the host I was tea disappointed in how we were treated… I will never return to Cafe Bouffon again😞
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 1
From the moment you walk in, the experience is different - you are a valued client. The coffee was really good. But the breakfast — was superb! I had the mushroom Benedict - the best Benedict I have ever had! The poached egg was perfect. The mushrooms, devine. On top of sourdough bread!!!! It demanded slow eating to savour every bite. My table mates said the same about their dishes. The table was quiet as we focussed on our meal. A happy table is a quiet table in our family. They were very attentive to a food allergy which has usually been met with with a sigh or no alternatives being suggested. We suggested a different sauce and it turned out amazing. Cafe Bouffon’s signature breakfast bun is to die for. It is a creative play on the croissant that will leave me craving this for weeks to come. I think I’ll crave this restaurant for years. Well done!🥰🥰🥰
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I am a server at a high-end restaurant, so I’m usually very picky on my service. This place blew me out of the water though! Our server Miles was fantastic and very knowledgeable about all of the menu items. He was fun to talk to but also never interrupted an ongoing conversation. He also convinced us to try crème brûlée, which was amazing! I’ve never had it before, and I was absolutely blown away. I would eat here again in a heartbeat!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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