Raven Cafe

Loved the art and atmosphere. I had the Raven burger, I would have expected it to have a bit more flavor though or spice considering it had pepper jelly, pepper jack cheese and a jalapeno. Overall a fun cafe that even has board games, would like to go again to enjoy a cup of coffee and a game. The Mayan chocolate crepe was nice. Not overly sweet.

The Raven should really be renamed “Sherwood Forest.”

Why? Well, on our most recent visit to Prescott we went here three times, generously tipping in the cash tipping jar at the counter, before we realized (much later) that our credit card was being charged an “automatic” 18% tip without our being aware of it. So we were basically tipping over 30% every time we patronized The Raven. And I should note that there was no obvious indication that an “automatic” tip was being charged – no signs at the counter and no advisement from the staff when they saw us putting cash in the tip jar AFTER they had just processed our “automatic” tip. Even the final printed receipt (if you opt to receive one!) DOES NOT INDICATE IN THE TOTAL THAT A TIP WAS CHARGED – instead it lists a total without tip at the bottom, and a tip amount separately, so that it is very unclear what has occurred. After being robbed three times, we did notice on our subsequent visit that there were some small icons and an even smaller text notice on the POS screen that advised customers of what is happening to them – but we never saw those initially. In fact, we didn’t discover what Robin Hood was up to until we saw our credit card bill a few weeks later. A pretty skeevy and unethical practice, don’t you think? We certainly did.

Now, some people might tip 30+% for really good service, atmosphere, and food. So is that what Sherwood Forest offers its customers…?

On all of our visits (we actually have been to The Raven many times over the years…the tipping issue seems a relatively recent change), the staff has generally been disinterested and distracted when taking orders, often because they are scrambling to get to-go coffees out to folks at the same time. There has never been a lot of smiling or engagement with us or any other customers that we have seen. Staff also tend to offer a blank stare or a dismissive shrug if you ask about food ingredients or sensitivity questions – they generally do not bother to ferret out an answer for you. So on our repeated visits over the years, it has become clear that the counter staff are happy to take your order and little else. There is also no table service, other than the food being delivered to you. And that delivery may take a long time, as the kitchen is a bit slow – seemingly regardless of how busy it is.

When the food finally arrives, it offers another potent surprise. Of late, the portions have become so diminutive and the prices so high we’ve had to confirm we are eating in Prescott, Arizona and not Los Angeles, California. These are definitely “small plate” meals with a “large plate” charge. Thankfully, the food does have nice flavors, fresh ingredients, and sometimes thoughtful presentation – even if the ingredients are a bit simple. But at least The Raven’s interior is spacious and clean – that is a consistent plus.

But no, overall, the 30+% service/quality tip is really not earned at this establishment…not by any stretch of the imagination.

Our understanding from some local friends who are familiar with the Raven’s business model is that our involuntarily lavish tipping was at least shared with all of the staff, who apparently (according to the local rumor mill at least) were not satisfied with customer tipping rates prior to this default up-charge. In fact, folks we know who live in the area patronize Sherwood Forest because of this and other worker-friendly features of the business. And my wife and I agree that workers should be treated well…we have zero problem with that.

It’s just that we think customers should be treated well, too. And that does NOT appear to be even a remote consideration at The Raven. Stealing from the rich (those willing to support Raven’s ethos?) and giving to the poor (the disinterred and distracted serving staff and very slow kitchen?) does not round out the intended service model of any restaurant business in our opinion. Unless, of course, the name of that restaurant is “Sherwood Forest.” :-)

So we will no longer be supporting Robin Hood from now on.

Vegetarian nachos, tacos, and more! I was in heaven. The selection of draft beers, tasty cocktails, and diverse menu will have me coming back for more. This has become my go-to place for pregame before hitting the rest of the bars.

Great place to dine-in , they have quite a large variety of menu where I have the signature dish which is over my expectation. And if you want to have a drink, they do sell alcoholic drinks from beer to wine and they do open up late so if you want some supper, this is a good place to go to.

This restaurant has a friendly staff and a wonderful outdoor patio. Even in July it was a great place to sit outside. The food was delicious. I had the Cobb salad and onion rings. I'd definitely recommend it!

We care here for a day trip get away. I am not a fan of bar fare and most of the court square seems to be bar food (albeit great bar food). I looked for a locally owned, organic, conscious restaurant and the people I asked recommended the Raven Cafe.

We showed up with 3 generations of family members age 5 months to late 60’s and all if us found something to thoroughly enjoy. I had the brunch burrito and it was WONDEROUS! (Yes I make up words). My little son had pancakes and my wife had avocado toast. We were all fulfilled and felt good about our meal.

We’re considering purchasing property in Prescott so we will be back! Thanks y’all! Salamat Po!!!

Really happy to see you guys open again. I love your breakfast and cappuccinos but please, please, please stop the Rap music in the mornings!! 99.9% of your customers hate it.. Thank you for your consideration,

Ray

I want to love this place but I cant eat somewhere that will undercook poultry and poison me. I had gotten the lemon chicken pita which is loaded with a bunch of stuff and it was movie night, so it was dark but I'm realizing the dark spot on the chicken I saw wasnt just from the lighting or something on the pita, but it was a raw spot on the chicken and now I'm sitting here throwing up and sick after being nauseous since Wednesday morning (went on tuesday night around 7)

Nice breakfast spot, good food. Ate downstairs as we didn't realize there was outside dining on a roof top patio. Next time we'll try that!

Back again and for breakfast this time, Highly recommend the poutine bit you might want to share it with someone. Amazing at the time but doesn't travel well. Also there is nothing quite like a good beer with breakfast.