French Meadow Cafe & Bluestem Bar

Like several other recent reviewers, I saw mice running through the restaurant/under booths in the middle of the afternoon while I was there. I told the server about the mice and they said they'd tell the manager. Although I had already lost my appetite by then, the entire back of the restaurant was suddenly filled with the smell of an extremely pungent peppermint-scented disinfectant (or at least that's what I guessed?). I was with two other people and all of us felt like it was irritating our noses and throats. It was so strong that it overwhelmed any other scent/taste. I asked the server if what we were smelling was disinfectant (they said yes) and if we could move to the front of the restaurant to get away from the strong smell. Later I emailed the manager about the incident and he claimed he didn't have any idea what I could be referring to. There's clearly an ongoing mouse problem (just look at other reviews from the past few months) and I learned that strong peppermint oil is used as mice deterrent/repellent. This used to be a go-to place for me, since they have a menu that offers a lot of options for someone with celiac disease, but I don't think I can stomach going back now.

What an exciting healthy restaurant and also the option of amazing snack grab and go was great. I went back the next morning for a healthy juice. I was impressed by the variety of options for any diet - vegan, vegetarian, gluten free & meat. The ambiance and staff were great. As for the food, I had to eat a very limited diet and opted for the kale salad. It seemed like it was missing just one ingredient to really make it pop and something to help balance the saltiness. The cup of posole could've used a little more spice... It still felt really great and healthy to eat there just next time I'll try a different meal.

The desserts here are **phenomenal**! If you’re gluten free, this spot is for you! Lots of vegan options too. The service I’ve had here though was rather abrasive. I was ignored at the counter by many employees and not acknowledged, when I was helped the woman was incredibly rude to me for seemingly no reason. It left a really gross taste in my mouth. I’ll still come back for the desserts but I hope the service improves.