06/21/09

Horrible Experience

by kellymarcos

I went to Hoffman's because I trusted all of the reviews about how fabulous the cakes were. After a tasting I was convinced they had the best cakes in Santa Cruz (aside from the Buttery) and for a decent price (as decent a price as wedding cakes can be). I order my cake and that is when the trouble began. I explained in great detail and gave a picture of the cake I wanted (a VERY simple cake) and brought in my own personal ribbon that I wanted on the cake. When I called to check and make sure it would be delivered at the proper time, apparently no one was quite sure how I wanted the cake decorated. So I had to describe my cake again. Simple enough, though I was annoyed at the carelessness.

THEN....the cakes arrives at my wedding and it is NOTHING like what I ordered! They used some other ribbon (not the ribbon I brought in), the decorator added a bunch of icing artwork on the tiers that were supposed to have NOTHING on them, and the ribbon did not have the bows I requested but a loop (similar to the "support the troops" or breast cancer support magnets you see on peoples' cars)!!!!

The cake I ordered was ridiculously simple and they couldn't even get it right (I gave them an exact picture for heaven sake!) So I had my husband call them because this really upset me (the wedding cake being a focal point at a wedding and the fact that it cost me over $500). They offered us a $50 gift card for them (like we wanted to go back!) and the owner justified the added decorations on my cake because he thought the cake was plain! Yeah, well if it was his wedding we could make the cake he wanted, but it was not his decision to make!

My husband and I figured we might as well use the gift card and the dinner we got was dry, bland, and not even worth the short 2 block walk over there. I will never walk back through their doors again.

03/03/08

The best Cakes

by voguelady

I LOVE Hoffmans, they are always so professional and have fantastic cakes. I've been ordering all my birthday cakes from them and their signature chocolate in a sheet cake is fantastic. Also, they do not even charge for air brushing pictures on them, they are so unique and beautiful. Its nice to finally have a good, reasonably priced bakery in Santa Cruz. We just had a huge Valentine's day party and everyone loved the signature chocolate cake! I've never had so many compliments and inquiries regarding a cake before!

• Pros: Great cakes, great price
• Cons: NONE

10/31/06

Amazing pastries and cakes, and wonderful meals

by kerip

Whether I come in for a latte and scone or crossant, or a full breakfast, lunch or dinner, Hoffmans has the best to offer downtown Santa Cruz. Locally owned merchants with European charm and warmth, this resturaunt has it all!

• Pros: Fresh food, world class bakery, simple ambience
• Cons: May need reservations for dinner on weekends