Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery

4 out of 5 stars

I always do my research before I go somewhere and Hayes is no exception. There have been some horror stories about bad service here (mostly due to a strong-minded owner/waitstaff) but I didn’t experience any problems. Perhaps part of the reason is because I knew in advance the rules of engagement – extras cost extra, no splitting checks, no trying to come in for dessert when they close in 20 minutes, and don’t send anything back. Luckily those things didn’t particularly apply. Glen and I stopped in for an Anniversary dinner, and after wandering past the front door and the other side door semi-confusedly, we found the entrance. Greeted by a quirky 40’s interior (and matching black-clad noir employees), we were ushered to our table for two with a single rose.

Our bread basket was filled with red pepper flecked cornbread, dill biscuits, and sourdough. My favorite was the moist cornbread, it was cheesy and just a bit sweet. My bountiful chicken pot pie was enough for three filling meals and was even better the next day- flaky pie pastry with creamy mashed potatoes and tender chicken, plus peas, carrots and celery. Hubby’s filet mignon was melt-in-your-mouth tender, with an amazing red wine mushroom sauce and crisp green beans.

For dessert I chose a head-sized slice of coconut cake which lived up to its promise. Moist and coconutty, but more dense than Village Deli’s also excellent cake. I’d love to try some of the other many cake options! Bountiful sized plates help soften the blow of the prices in these difficult times. Our total came to about $66 for the two of us.

Hayes Barton filled up pretty quickly and by the time we left it was mostly full. A friendly group of locals seem to enjoy coming here to socialize at the bar. It would be a great place to bring a date or some friends to celebrate a birthday, listening to some big band music. I can’t wait to go back and try another dessert.

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