I love to support local, family owned businesses. My husband and I always try to go to mom and pop places over chains when at all possible. With that said, I have to say that people visiting Waynesville must go to the Hammel House Inn because of the ambiance rather than quality, friendly service or affordability. It offers indoor and outdoor seating.
On the weekends, the wait could be long, but during the breakfast and lunch times, it’s fairly quick. I’ve heard that the inn is the best in the area, but living in town, I don’t see myself staying over night there – other than to possibly look for ghosts.
This isn’t my first visit to the Hammel House Inn and probably won’t be the last, since I live near. But, I really wish they would make a few changes. First, the woman that runs the front desk is usually rude and brash. We have witnessed her scolding young employees in front of customers, she is rude to clients and is just basically not a happy camper most of the time. I don’t want to see anyone lose their job, but maybe her place is more behind the scenes.
Also, for the amount of food that is provided, very small portions, especially at breakfast, you may find yourself still hungry when you leave but very light on the wallet. If you are looking for an affordable breakfast, this is not the place. For the two of us it was almost $30 – FOR BREAKFAST. Yes, we could have had more food for less at Bob Evans. But, that’s not the point. The food, even though costly, was delicious. It was delivered in a timely manner, warm and no complaints about it. Very good.
Although we have been to this establishment numerous times over the year, it was the first time I ever used the restroom. If you know me, the restroom is the turning point for me in placing the establishment in high standards. This did not, unfortunately do it for me. I understand that the building is a very old place and that’s the charm of it. But, I don’t want to relieve myself in a gross, dirty and very outdated restroom. See the photos. When I pay high dollar for a meal, I would like to still feel clean when I leave the restroom.
The server was delightful in her own way. She was quiet and that’s the way I like my service. I want to be able to talk to the person I’m with without being interrupted time and time again. She was perfect.
This is not a place I would recommend taking children or a large group. It’s just not a place for that. The indoor seating area is pretty small. If looking for a great place to sit outside on those beautiful days, then the outdoor sitting area would be perfect.
But, everything is made fresh and homemade, which is a specialty in a world of fast foods. The menu is limited, but that’s expected. You will get a great meal for a more expensive price. Just don’t expect too much when checking out or going to the restroom.
City Skipper Gal 