Ambrosio Market and Deli: Deli-cious in James Bay

When I want a sandwich. I make one. If I don’t do that, I generally go to Subway. I know the menu, I know what I like, it’s cheap (sorry, “inexpensive”). With the amount of service out there, you would think I would mix it up a bit more…well, you’re right. On a recommendation for a co-worker, I was directed to Ambrosio Market and Deli. Haven’t heard of it? Maybe it’s time you did.

THE ORDER:
Located on Menzies in James Bay (or at least the branch I visited), Ambrosio is a delicatessen filled with a little bit of everything – cheeses, meats, ice cream…you know, a deli. At the back of the store is a high counter where they take your orders for paninis or Portuguese sandwiches. Picking your “sambo” is a little different. After selecting your meat, you’re given a checklist that includes condiments and specialty items. (i.e. sundried tomatoes, pesto, etc.). Once you check off the little boxes and hand it to the lady behind the counter, they get to work. Voila, yummy sandwich.

THE SERVICE:
The first thing that stood out to me was the smiles The two ladies that helped me genuinely seemed to be happy to be there and to see me. (Note: if you’re faking, I don’t care. Nicely done). They were helpful with the process of picking a sandwich, which I had never done there before, by walking me through it and answering questions as I went along. “Does pesto cost more?” (it didn’t). “How many items can I check off?” (lots). And they didn’t make me feel like an idiot for asking. Very important!

There was a little friendly banter which didn’t seem forced. And after just a few minutes…though I was only one of two customers they were helping…my sandwich was ready. If I had one issue with the whole experience was that the debit machine brought up that automatic tip function when I’m getting counter service. But you know what? I was so happy with the place I didn’t mind dropping a dollar (find tip for a $5 purchase).

THE CONCLUSION:
Going steady – This could be the beginning of something major. Ambrosio Market and Deli in James Bay is definitely a place to consider instead of the usual chains and food courts. Great stop for a summer sambo (I really like that pseudo-word).

Service Rating System:

Friend Zone – I just don’t like you in “that way.”
Booty Call – If I don’t have anything else better going on, I’ll stop by.
2nd Date – I’ll give you a second chance.
Going steady – This could be the beginning of something major.

The UpSOLD! (contributed by @actoner)
A staff member at the IRIS eye clinic in downtown Victoria (707 View St.) made me feel like a rock star. I didn’t even buy anything. I redeemed a coupon for 20 free AirMiles and when I handed over my brand new Gold AirMiles card she started oohing and ahing and generally made a big fuss. It made me feel special. I’ll be returning to the store for sure.

THE TIP:
You know what one of the biggest steps towards good customer service is? It is sometimes overlooked. Sometimes it’s missed entirely.

BE OPEN…please. And answer your phone.

I’m not asking for 24/7 service. I get that you have to go home but, if I walk by your store and it always seems to be closed, I’m going to assume it always is. I live in a smaller city (Victoria – metro pop. 330,000) so I can’t really expect places to be open at my whim but I would like to go to your restaurant what you would assume is peak times.

And I should clarify this is generally the case with restaurants, not any other business. Or as far as my experience has been. There’s a couple of Thai places that come to mind.

Am I wrong? Have you had a similar experience?

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