Signs in the windows of Dorset Cafe indicate that the European-style organic bakery and cafe opened in Wellesley Hills by the Khudairi sisters in 2006 has apparently served its last cup of tea.
Dorset, located at 352 Washington St., was out in front of other eateries in town in promoting gluten-free menu items, and included a diverse breakfast and lunch menu featuring everything from waffles to quiches to soups. The restaurant was inspired by Dorset County in England, and offered afternoon tea service Monday through Saturday. Dorset also provided catering services.
The owners kept a fresh look inside by rotating artists’ works on its walls.
But it is a couple of hangings in Dorset’s windows that tell of its closing.
Dorset has competed for years to some extent with coffee/tea shops in other parts town such as Peet’s and Starbucks, but very direct competition came to town last year in the form of Caffe Nero in the Wellesley Hills train station across the street from Dorset. It appeared Dorset might be for sale last summer, though the owner said that wasn’t the case at the time.
(Thanks to a Swellesley reader for giving us the heads up on this.)
I moved to the area 3+ years ago, eager to support my local businesses and pleased to be walking distance from Dorset. I patronized Dorset 3 times, each experience equally unpleasant. My mother and cousin were also treated rudely on a separate visit. I WANTED to like you, Dorset! It wasn’t the increase in large chains, it was the decrease in people willing to pay a hefty premium for snooty, unfriendly service!
Not surprised. Rude, hostile, horrible people behind the counter. I was ‘SHUSH’-ed mid-order because a guy walked in and she wanted to talk to him instead… just out of this world rude. As someone FROM ENGLAND, i was so disappointed by the food and drink there. Terrible teas and coffee, stale pastries. Could have had the potential to be a cute spot, but the terrible food and tea, paired with the terrible people made it a very easy-to-ignore location. Good Riddance
I am sad that Dorset closed. It was by far the best breakfast around. We always found the service to be top notch, and the quality of food excellent.
I never felt called to go in there. It just didn’t have much curb appeal.
I am not surprised. I had only been there twice in ten years and was amazed at the rudeness of the people behind the counter. I have many friends with a similar view who refused to return. We were delighted when Caffe Nero opened even though it makes parking for the Post Office quite a bear. The success of Nero speaks to the inadequacies of Dorset.
We agree 100%. After multiple negative experiences and shockingly rude (and almost hostile) customer “service,” we also never went back.
Without doubt. I never felt welcome there.
I’m so sad! Sue and her wonderful place was one of my favorites. You will be missed!!!