Flawlessly made specialty coffees and refreshing summer drinks, fresh, colourful, healthy food and a beautifully stocked artisan retail section make The Bench Market stellar. But it’s the staff that elevates the customer experience to a whole new level and wins them people’s choice awards. The smiles and greetings from the staff are not because of a requirement in a training manual.
“It’s a great place to work for a lot of reasons,” says veteran Bencher Vanessa Farinha. “I work with owners that ask about your life and your plans for your days off. I’m encouraged to be creative and offer suggestions. The team is great and likes to hang out after work. We help each other out and we feel respected and valued.”
New employee Gabrielle Lucier says she likes the food and the vegan options available. “I’m even asked for ideas that could expand their offerings. It’s great they are open to that.”
Xavier Maciel says he has worked in other kitchens that were just jobs. “The strong team here allows us to offer consistency and quality which means customers that are happy with what we are doing and that makes us happy.”
“It’s the vibe here that I like from the staff and customers,” says Megan Reilly. “Everyone here is treated like family, everyone pitches in and we are cross-trained so it’s never too routine.”
Aside from building a business where staff are engaged and valued, owners Stewart and Heather Glynes are working to help improve the culinary scene in the area. They have established the Bench Market Bursary Fund this year to support young adults entering the culinary arts program.
Drop by for some authentic smiles. The Bench Market is open seven days a week.