Bracegirdles house of Fine chocolate Cross Road

Lovely old home converted. Nice atmosphere. Lovely coffee and choices of cakes or chocolates car parking off the riF always welcomed.

I had heard great things about Bracegirdles and decided to meet a friend coming from the country for a birthday treat at 4pm as she could not get to Adelaide any earlier. Seemed simple enough, 1 hour to enjoy the coffee, chocolate and waffles - we arrived at 4:02pm yesterday (Sunday) only to be told they had closed for new customers. The web site still says open until 5pm on Sundays!So we decided to go to the Burnside one instead but very annoyed and no apology or explanation from staff.

Firstly... The sandwiches are lovely - however, if you plan to indulge in the chocolate delights that are on the menu, just skip lunch altogether! :)I had the popcorn waffle - YUM! But I am so glad I shared it with my sister! Especially after the sandwich! The coffee, no, the hot chocolates are to die for! Salted caramel hot chocolate?? Yes Please! A whole variety of things listed on their menu ... Good variety.The service was okay, however, it was Easter Monday when we went there, so it was especially busy. And there was some delay with orders. BUT worth the wait, 100%!I especially loved the building - very "Snow White and Seven Dwarvesy" if you know what I mean... :) I would have loved to have bought the little handmade chocolates displayed - they looked very petite and pretty. I think the popcorn waffle filled me up too much for that though. Haha! Well worth a visit - for coffee or hot chocolate and something sweet to eat.

I remember this small chain initially opening up in a small shop in Glenelg about 10 years ago and it has gradually grown, but I feel it's lost some its originality and charm.I am not sure what it is about the Cross Rd premises, but it just doesn't do it for me. It doesn't feel welcoming and comfortable enough even though the staff are pleasant enough (I even think we were served by the owner today).The coffee, chocolates and cakes are still very good, but many other similar establishments are doing the same, or even better.Time for a rebrand or new USP?

We went for Sunday brunch with some friends, and all felt the same way...let down! The meals choices were limited, serves extremely minimal and very expensive for what was served. The coffees were ordinary also. Service wasn't great either, so wont be returning.