Very expensive and not great ($10 for chicken tenders, $13 for soup in a sourdough bread bowl). Would skip if you can, eat before going to Longwood Gardens! read more

The Cafe - Chicken tenders - Salad Near Me - Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

Located on the expansive Longwood Gardens grounds, the Cafe is a great place to pick up a quick bite to eat. It's a laid back cafeteria-style grab and go service with two separate "dining" rooms. Choices range from pre-made salads, sandwiches, yogurt parfaits, fruit cups to hot dogs, burgers and fried chicken fingers. I had a shrimp Mediterranean bowl that was made to order at one of the stations-it was excellent. Salad items were super fresh. Hummus, shrimp, mixed veggies and rice were a great combination. I had a few spoonfuls of the mac and cheese which was surprisingly good. Others had salads, chili and one of the dessert options. Happy campers all around. Everything was very clean and the staff kept up on the tables after visitors vacated their seats. read more

See all

Plenty of seating indoors and outdoors. Some of the produce is garden to table which is really cool. They have a wide array of dessert, drinks, entrees and snacks to choose from. It's grab and go on a tray cafeteria style. I had the salmon bowl which came with rice, mushrooms, carrots and broccoli. The salmon was seasoned really nicely. The salads looked creative as well! read more

The food is not worth the price being paid for. 7$ for a mushroom soup is not worth the price. It's definitely a must to get when coming to Longwood gardens though. As mushroom soup is a local of Kennett square read more

This place is great to grab a bite while at Longwood- they have something for everyone! The prices are a little high as expected but the portions are large. There is some indoor and plenty of outdoor seating. It is open regular hours and stays open for ticketed events. It's a self serve easy button option! read more

The Cafe - Vegan strawberry shortcake - Salad Near Me - Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

See all

Very cute little place to grab a bite at Longwood Gardens, PA. Nice relaxing atmosphere. Cafeteria style and also grab and go cases. They had hot items, like flatbread pizza, pot pies and shrimp fajita bowls. Family type items, hot dogs, fries, tenders. Grab and go case had a few sandwiches, wraps and salads. They have a nice selection of cold drinks, hot coffee and tea, little bottles of wine and a beautiful selection of desserts which looked homemade. I had the Mediterranean chicken and farro salad which included tomatoes, cucumber, olive and feta over mixed greens. I selected a chipotle dressing which wasn't too spicy but went nicely with the salad. Everything was fresh. The coffee was just how I like it, full bodied. The price seemed a bit high at first, but the salad was fresh and tasty, the staff was friendly and Longwood Gardens is a beautiful place to spend the day. read more

The Cafe - Mediterranean chicken salad - Salad Near Me - Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

See all

This is the most unorganized system I have ever seen. There is a huge line that begins to form at the first station because there is no indication that there are multiple stations. There is no indication of where the line starts at each station. I almost got in a brawl with an elderly lady who blamed me for cutting in front of her. The food was subpar and cold. The quiche was lame and flavorless. The side salad barely had any dressing on it. Would never eat here again. It's also overpriced. $3.50 for a bottle of water? $14 for a subpar quiche? I was jipped. My last gripe. There is free ice water out by the utensils but no mention of this anywhere. Steal my money for water then slap me in the face. read more

The Cafe - Subpar quiche - Salad Near Me - Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

Located at the Terrace area inside Longwood Gardens, the Café is a restaurant via cafeteria style. They offer hot entrees, sandwiches, soups, desserts, fruit, beverages, etc. The food is good and there are three rooms for inside seating as well as outside seating in warmer weather. Definitely the pricey alternative being a café as the menu is very limited. However, what IS produced is presented as works of art. My partner, his family and I ordered the Kenneth Square Mushroom Quiche with aged cheddar, local mushrooms, asparagus, served with mixed greens, the Kennett Square Mushroom Soup, Mediterranean protein bowl with chicken shawarma, seasoned brown rice, hummus, cucumber, crispy chickpeas, tomato, red onion, olives, vegan tzatziki and pita & the Sunshine Bowl with baby spinach and mixed greens, strawberries, cucumbers, candied walnuts, feta cheese, white citrus balsamic vinaigrette with a light marinated chicken breast. Their mushroom soup is delicious since Kennett Square is known for their mushrooms. We even saved room for desserts and got their Chocolate Mousse and carrot/walnut pound cake. Overall, clean, nice interior and good food despite the prices but worth it for being on site. read more

See all

The Terrace Cafe at Longwood Gardens is open as of today, 9/7/20, but with some adaptations. You can no longer go through the line inside to select your food items. We were seated by a hostess, at a shady outdoor table, as we requested. They are providing two options for service. Each table has a laminated sheet with the table number and a QR code that is stuck to the table by Velcro. You can either use their free Garden Wi-Fi and order from your table using a mobile device, or you can walk up to an outdoor counter location to order your food, and then they bring it to your table. They had some soups, salads, a couple of hot offerings, sandwiches, sides, and beverages. I ordered a chicken salad croissant. It was delivered very quickly, in a plastic container, with chips. My husband ordered a hot pastrami sandwich and it came out separately after a few minutes. I had a bottle of water and he found a beer that he liked and he ended up having two. The total was about $45 for those items, so it is not inexpensive. The food was OK-- not wonderful but adequate. Sitting outside at an umbrella table gave us time to rest before we headed over to the conservatory. Timing is everything. We decided on a very early lunch, and we're seated around 11:25. The 11:15 fountain show was still going on then and we kind of had the restaurant to ourselves. Once the fountain show was over, and before noon, there was a long line of people waiting to be seated, almost too many people for me to feel comfortable. So, kudos to The Terrace for finding a way to serve people with all of the pandemic restrictions. I am sure it is a nicer experience under regular circumstances. read more

See all

When in the gardens one must grab something to eat to keep one's energy up for the light show. The cage is it. Wide selection. I had the mushroom soup which is divine and a chili dog. Hotdog chili should never have beans but this one did. Bummer. Everything else is okay but cafe is a stretch here. read more

This review is for the Terrace Cafe located on the Longwood Garden property. It's pricey as you would expect with any on-site dining option located inside an attraction. The food was good for a cafeteria style dining environment. There were plenty of options to chose from sandwiches, salads, hot entrees, flatbread, soup, etc. A flatbread, large soup, and a bottle of water set us back about $25. Given that we were enjoying our day at the Gardens eating here was part of the experience. The lines moved fast and the servers and cashiers were friendly. Once you have selected and purchased your food, there are 3 dining room seating options as well as outdoor dining available. All had various views of the ground. read more

The Cafe - Indoor Dining at the Terrace Cafe - Salad Near Me - Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

Very expensive prices for so-so cuisine, which should not be surprising for a captive market inside Longwood Gardens. Being able to dine within the grounds is nice, and you get the extra entertainment of the fearless squirrels who will all but hang out with you waiting for scraps. :) read more

I have been a long time member of Longwood garden and always looked forward to grabbing a bite from the cafe. The food was always pretty decent and the selection decent. After the recent renovation, we went there this past weekend and the cafe was completely revamped for the worse. The food is now prepackaged in containers so you can no longer choose a la carte. They got rid of all the cashiers and it is now self checkout. The fountain drinks are now limited to just ice tea and ice coffee. The checkout process is now so inefficient and the line moved slowly as a result. I am highly disappointed with the deterioration in quality of the food and the service and will not be eating there again. Usually when a major renovation takes place, it's for the better...not this time. read more

Normally I avoid eating at cafes that are inside a gated park. Most Yelpers would probably do the same. It's just that such cafes don't have to worry as much about quality and low prices because they have a captive audience anyway. In many ways that was true of the Terrace Cafe, which is inside Longwood Gardens. It wasn't bad, however. Anyway, if you are wondering why I even ate there, it is because I was with two friends who just recently adopted a baby, so we needed the convenience of eating there. And that's what we did. Their offerings are pretty much what you would expect for the type of crowd that would visit Longwood Gardens. It's not fast food. They have decent sandwiches, soups, and entrees. There are plenty of healthier options. It's just that I don't want to spend $18 for a scooped, cafeteria style Eggplant Parmigiana. Their soda taps were cool because they had speciality, craft sodas and iced teas. The atmosphere was pretty nice for a cafeteria, too. They even had a gas fireplace, which we sat next to. All in all, it serves its purpose well for people who want to pay for convenience. But if you can avoid it and eat outside the gardens before or afterwards, then definitely do that. read more

See all

Until my recent visit with another Yelper, I hadn't eaten here since the early 00s, with my grandparents. This cafe has changed over the years. It used to feel more formal, although it was always cafeteria style in my memory. Food offerings were a little more fancy/traditional back when, and I remember waitstaff filling drinks. I also remember Kennett mushroom soup. Now, it's cafe-like options, but nothing is particularly great looking. Outside they have "beer garden food" like brats, brisket sandwiches, black bean and beef burgers, etc. It was frustrating to have to wander from hut to hut, because some have pizza, some BBQ, no overlap, and no signage indicating which hut is which. The outdoor seating is pleasant. Jessica W. and I had a relaxing meal. It is very convenient to eat inside the gardens (though you can stamp your hand to leave for an outside restaurant, and return). I am just embarrassed that the food quality wasn't better, and that prices were so high (my brisket sandwich was $14!), because I came up with the idea, and my friend was very generously treating me. Dessert was the highlight, from inside the cafe. We both had the peach mousse with champagne gelatin on top. We were weirded out by the clear slimy gelatin until we realized what it was. The taste, however, was great, perfect for a hot day touring the gardens! Frothy, airy mousse and that sparkling feeling champagne gives to your tongue. Perfect! Tip:Members get a 10% discount at the cafe (and beer garden), as well as the Gift Shop! read more

See all

Anyone who goes to a museum, garden or zoo venue and expects an inexpensive meal from the on-site facilities is, well, a bit delusional. They have a monopoly, and this is an opportunity for them to increase their funds for operations and such. In the case of Longwood Gardens, part of the legendary Pierre DuPont Estate, they're not hurting, but hey, every dollar counts, right? What's remarkable about the Terrace Cafe is that the expensive food is actually pretty darn good, clean and beautiful to boot. The six of us - four adults, two kids, enjoyed a late lunch on a warm spring day. Highlights would be the vegetarian chili - really delicious, with just a slight kick of spice - the chicken salad with cranberries and grapes - YUM - and the italian panini. Salads and breads were remarkably fresh given this is a cafeteria-style operation. Chicken fingers were just OK, with not a lot of grease as was the macaroni and cheese, which was a bit on the bland side but not mushy. Cookies, while big and showy, were really meh, and were the one true 'soft spot'. There is a good selection of decidedly un-Aramark-like food there, healthy and delicious. Yes they have those hot dogs and chicken fingers but they also have food you don't usually see like stir fried vegetables, polenta and handcrafted sandwiches. If you're looking to eat cheap, this isn't your place. If, however, you don't mind spending the extra buck (we each ate for about $10), for the type of restaurant this is, it's quite good. **Please note this review speaks for the cafeteria-style cafe only. We have not eaten in the 1906 Fine Dining Restaurant. Seemed to be overkill to attempt that with kids who were very anxious to get back out and play in the gardens. read more

FH and I dined at the Terrace Cafe for lunch this past weekend. We had the misfortune of arriving at the same time as several other hungry garden goers and as a result had to wait 20 minutes in line. Once it was our turn we grabbed our cafe style trays and jumped in the closest line. In my hunger I did not realize there was different food stations in the cafeteria until after getting my food. FH and I opted to get the cup of soup, 1/4 sandwich, fruit and drink combo for $11.25. I went with the roast beef sandwich while he went for the chicken salad with apples on a croissant. We both got the famed Kennett Square Mushroom soup which upon tastng I felt was probably watery canned soup. I did however enjoy the roast beef sandwich with the pickled onion aioli. FH said his chicken salad was blandness from a can. The food was a very small portion size and I would say an hour in I was hungry again. Would I go back? I suppose if I was starving and didn't wan't to leave the gardens yet. read more

the place is nice, outdoor seating is comfortable and has good views. The food is interesting, with several sandwiches that I've never seen before (ham and cheese on a pretzel!). Ample choices for children. All a bit expensive of course, but not as over the top as other "attraction" cafe's I've been to. The reason I'm going with 2 stars is that I was in the bathroom with one of the kitchen staff and saw him leave without washing his hands. Gross. read more

This place was great. It was crowded and a little disorganized. I wasn't going to get anything but the blueberry buckle with ice cream looked so good! And it was!! The price was ok as well. What you would expect for a tourist place. I would come back for sure. read more

The Terrace Cafe is surprisingly yummy... lots of choices in foods. Anything from a sandwiches to various freshly cook entrees. There are cute little tables out on the terrace where you overlook the lawn and can people watch. Very relaxing atmosphere. The only thing that could make this place better is more reasonable prices. Worth a try if you are looking for a bite to eat in Longwood Gardens! read more

Only ever eaten at the terrace cafe. It's decent cafeteria food. Way better than what you had in college :) Sandwich area, entree area, soup area and kids meals. There are also deserts and salads. Always some options available that skew healthy. You get a discount with your member card. read more

We wanted a quick snack to refuel before more exploring of Longwood Garden. As expected, the food is pricey for this cafeteria style eatery. The maiitake mushroom looked amazingly like a flower. It was artfully presented with soft polenta, roasted grape tomatoes and kale chips. We enjoyed it so thoroughly that I made some for dinner since. My maiitake wasn't as pretty though. read more

The Cafe - Salad Near Me - Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

This is for the terrace cafe. The service was good. However, the food was not enjoyable. It used to be very good so I am not sure what happened. My mother's salad was partially frozen and had no flavor. The other food could have been a little tastier for cafeteria food. Can't say that we will eat there again. read more

This review is for the Terrace Cafe, which I've visited many times--most recently the night before last. The Cafe is located in Longwood Gardens, and is the casual on site dining option. As the name suggests, the format is cafeteria style--you go through a line to select and purchase your food and then take a seat at one of the indoor or outdoor tables to eat. On my most recent visit, I came with my mom for a light dinner while seeing the winter lights display in the gardens. We both ordered the mushroom soup and a dinner roll, and I additionally ordered a side salad and a dessert, which came to around $22. While I remember enjoying the mushroom soup in the past, this time, it seemed just okay. It may be that my tastes have evolved, but it seemed rather salty and lacked the depth of flavor that I expect from a well-made mushroom soup. On the positive side, the thickness was appropriate, and it contained decent-sized slices of mushroom. The salad, which consisted of cold sauteed mushrooms with a balsamic glaze and blue cheese, was all right, but nearly as flavorful as I would have expected given the description. The best part of the meal was the dessert--a peppermint chocolate mousse cake--but even that could have been improved by the addition of some peppermint crumbles on top. While the cafe is convenient for a quick bite while in the gardens, I don't recommend eating a full meal here, esp. given the price:quality ratio. Instead, I recommend visiting one of the nearby restaurants in or around Kennett Square to sample some of the local cuisine. Also, for those averse to the stroller crowd, be aware that there are always small children running rampant. Overall, the cafe is a convenience option and nothing more--given the choice, I'll choose somewhere else every time. read more

Poor service, and closing 30 minutes before restaurant hours. I wonder what kind of management runs this place. Totally unacceptable, not one employee was courteous or even caring. read more

Only one thing to say! The BEST Awesome food out standing and the service was outstanding! Love the bread omg wow .

During a lovely day at Longwood, my parents and I came here for lunch. I had one of the best lunches I have had in a while by far. I got the pumpkin tart with sage sauce and roasted vegetables and it was excellent. I was expecting cafeteria food, but this was impeccable. The seating area is quite nice to sit as well. There are plenty of tables, as well as a nice walnut counter top to sit at and a fireplace. There are plenty of children-friendly options, as well as plates with fresh vegetables. The dining room is light and airy, and there is an outdoor area to sit when the weather is nice. If you are at Longwood and looking for somewhere to eat, definitely come here. read more

Meh about sums this experience up. We had lunch in the cafe today. I was immediately drawn in by the gorgeous heirloom tomato salad, and ordered that. The tomatoes had been chilled, so were mealy (I never refrigerate tomatoes), the garlic was super spicy and cheap...the kind straight from a jar, and too much of it. No fresh basil to set it off, and the balsamic was just ok. It was an underwhelming disappointment. Everything else we had was a similar effect...just meh. On the plus side, there are a lot of vegetarian options, lots of veggies and fruit available, and whole grain options. So you can get your fiber fix, but the flavors are disappointing. read more

Premium prices for average food. If you are visiting Longwood Gardens, plan on eating at one of the fine local restaurants in Kennett Square. read more

The staff really rude behind the food bar. Food overpriced and tasted bad. Only coffee was decent and the view. Dissapointed.

This review is for the Terrace Cafe only. I have eaten there 4x over the past year or so. On three occasions I had a very good experience and good food. On the fourth, the experience was decidedly underwhelming. On all visits, it is confusing to figure what is being served at the different food stations and where the line begins, as well as whether there is a single line that simply moves from left to right through the whole room, or if you can jump in at the station you're interested in. Clearly other patrons are confused as well, as I have heard a lot of grumbling and comments about not realizing there were other food options further down the line, or about people cutting in line. There are other organizational/layout issues as well. You can get fresh-brewed iced tea and lemonade in the checkout line...but you can't get a lid for your cup until after you pay and go around the corner to the soft drink dispensers, and carrying a full open cup through the crowds of people is hazardous. The coolers are poorly located, particularly the one in the corner, which is always blocked by people standing in line for the food items. Usually, the food is quite good and fresh. I have had very good vegetarian chili and cornbread, as well as a tasty vegetable sandwich. On the most recent visit, the food was not great. I paid $8 for a roasted zucchini salad that consisted of a container of spinach, a tablespoon or so of zucchini, and a sprinkling of feta cheese. The curry flavor in the dressing was nice, though. The kids' meals were cold (hot dogs and mac and cheese). The mac and cheese, which has been delicious on previous visits, was dry and bland. All of the ketchup dispensers were out of ketchup. I asked where to find the juice boxes that are included in the kids' meals, but the shelf I was directed to in the cooler was empty. The cashier told me I should just get soda for the kids, which was not really acceptable to me. Our meal for 3 people was my rather stingy salad and two hot dogs with mac and cheese on the side, plus my drink ($2.95 for a small drink!) and a fruit cup for $28 (after member discount). It was pretty disappointing. read more