A Disney World visitor took to social media to share her disappointing experience at the Cake Bake Shop Bakery located on Disney’s Boardwalk in Orlando. The guest described encountering what she perceived as “rude” and “pretentious” employees during her visit, sparking a conversation on Reddit among others who shared similar negative encounters at the bakery.
The Reddit post detailed an unpleasant interaction with bakery staff, starting from being asked to leave a stroller outside containing a sleeping 1-year-old. The visitor described feeling ignored by the employees behind the counter, who allegedly made no effort to offer assistance or even smile. Despite the wait, only one staff member eventually approached the family with a less-than-friendly attitude, magnifying the overall unpleasant experience.
The visitor speculated that the cold and unwelcoming demeanor of the employees may have been intentional and part of the bakery’s atmosphere, comparing it to the interactive style of service at another Disney restaurant, 50’s Prime Time Café. However, the negative tone persisted as the family encountered what they perceived as condescending behaviour when attempting to pay with a gift card, leaving a lasting impression of dissatisfaction despite the bakery’s reportedly delicious food.
Other Reddit users joined the discussion, sharing their own accounts of lacklustre food quality and unfriendly staff at the Cake Bake Shop Bakery. Some pointed out that while the bakery is located on Disney’s Boardwalk, it operates independently and its employees are not official Disney Cast Members. This distinction led to a debate about whether the bakery’s standards should align with Disney’s renowned hospitality regardless of ownership.
Representatives for both Disney World and the Cake Bake Shop Bakery have not yet responded to requests for comment on the reported incidents. The bakery, which opened its doors in October 2024, faced criticism even before launch due to its initial menu prices, prompting adjustments. With locations in Indianapolis and Carmel, Indiana, this establishment is part of a small chain known for its decadent desserts and pastries.
The viral post and subsequent conversations shed light on the importance of customer service and the impact of staff behaviour on visitor experiences, especially in a highly anticipated dining establishment within a popular tourist destination like Disney World. The community response also highlighted the power of shared experiences in shaping perceptions and influencing future decisions of potential patrons.
As discussions continue online, it remains to be seen how the Cake Bake Shop Bakery and Disney World will address the concerns raised by visitors regarding service quality and staff interactions. This episode serves as a reminder of the significance of customer feedback in driving improvements and ensuring a positive guest experience in the competitive hospitality industry, particularly in iconic settings like Disney’s magical world of theme parks and attractions.
In an era where social media platforms provide individuals with a platform to voice their opinions and share experiences, businesses must navigate the challenges of maintaining a stellar reputation and addressing issues promptly to uphold customer satisfaction and loyalty. The evolving landscape of online discourse underscores the need for organisations to be attuned to public feedback and proactively engage with consumers to cultivate trust and goodwill in an increasingly interconnected digital age.