Coyotes Southwestern Grill - Banff, Alberta, Canada

While the food was extremely tasty here, the overall experience just didn't cut it in the long run.

We came in for breakfast before heading to Lake Louise.  We were seated immediately and greeted by our server.  We both ordered fresh squeezed juice and I asked for water (which was never brought).  This came in a timely fashion and we ordered - both of us cereal - the Warm 9 Grain cereal (like porridge, but tastier) and the honey baked granola (served with yogurt, which really doesn't make for an easy eat).  Both were delicious, but took a really long time to come out.  There were several tables seated after us, who ordered after us, who received their meals before we did.

Since it took such a long time, we really got to see the workings of this restaurant... and some things just left me with a not so pleasant experience.  First off, you can see their kitchen - which to me could be a really cool experience.  However, I saw a cook eating while preparing food and that didn't sit well with me.

Secondly, the restaurant is SMALL so be prepared.  Even if you make a reservation, you may be in the crush!  Mostly they have tables for four, that easily separate into two sets of two.  Unfortunately, this became very difficult for the servers to serve efficiently as they had to lean over other tables and guests to serve.  Thirdly, while I can understand the frustration of the server having to bend over people, taking it out on the hostess in front of guests is just not something I want to see.

Finally, and this is a personal gripe/pet peeve of mine...
Our server, who was "in the weeds" as they say in the industry, was pimping himself out to other tables about where he worked at night.  While I understand this is their livelihood, the restaurant you are serving in should be your priority.  I know this is not something everyone agrees with (one way or the other), but it just ticked me off.

So, if you can find a quieter time where food comes out in a timely manner, the staff aren't tripping over each other and are a little more organized/not so frazzled - I would try it.  If it is during the rush - avoid it.