I was appalled with the service I received from Aro Café yesterday; we came in to buy take-away coffee. The place only had one other diner, (not something that you usually see at a Wellington Café on a Sunday). Ordered, paid for our coffee, watched the front of staff write our coffee order down and move over to the coffee machine. We then took a seat and started flicking though an old magazine (no Sunday paper in site). 5 minutes later we watch this same front of house person (latter found out her name was Sarah), move from coffee machine into the kitchen and started having a loud chat with the kitchen staff (about the party when went to the previous night).
We then got up and required about our coffee (there was no coffee queue, no one else waiting for coffee before us). At first they asked if we would like to order, when I informed the girl that we actually ordered our take-away coffees 5 minutes ago and produced our receipt, Sarah came out of the kitchen and then started to make our coffee.
We asked how come they weren’t made (now) 10 minutes later, said that we would understand if there were other coffee orders in front of us, (which there was not). Sarah had no reply. Ask to speak to the manager, Sarah replied that was herself.
We will never be returning to Aro Café thanks to the service we received from there front of house. We are disappointed that we have these types of Cafes in our beautiful city.

I’m definitely a fan of Aro Cafe and come here regularly for brunch but have noticed prices climbing in the last six months. Lovely gingerbread and the most generous portion of halloumi in town. I also love that their menu changes regularly with the seasons – I just wish they served hollandaise! What kind of brunch spot doesn’t serve hollandaise>

Overpriced to start off with. I ordered a pasta salad for $13 which I thought was a bit steep for a pasta. I was even more disgusted when I counted 14 pieces of penne pasta on my huge plate where you could see more plate than food. I made a cheerful complaint to the manager and was left in tears, feeling completely patronised and humiliated in front of all the customers. I will never be coming back here ever again and will make sure that everyone I know is told about my terrible experience at Aro Cafe.

This is a great place for brunch and the best coffee around! Service is prompt and staff are warm and friendly. Would definitely recommend.