Frequently Asked Questions

Delivery Bags

Do I have to pay for the food delivery bags? Can I keep them?

 

 You don't have to pay for the bags that we deliver your food in, but we do need them back. If you plan to order again within the next month or so you can hold on to them if you'd like.  If you’d prefer we come get them right away or don’t think you’ll be ordering again for a while, give us a write and we’ll come by and pick them up.

 

How can I get a bag of my own?

 

If you like our delivery bags and would like one of your own, you can order one through our website.

 

 

 Delivery

I don't live in Ithaca. Will you deliver to me?

 

Our delivery area is all of Cornell, Ithaca College, the City and Town of Ithaca, Lansing, Trumansburg, West Hill, Newfield, Brooktondale, Ellis Hollow and "inner" Danby. We'll expand into more of Tompkins County as demand for our services increase. If you work within our delivery area we can deliver to your office or workplace.

 

If I place my order today, how soon will it be delivered?

 

We deliver twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  Tuesday deliveries are made between 12 noon and 7 pm. On Thursday we deliver only to customers who are getting a CSA delivery.  Order cut-off time for both days is Sunday at 12:00 noon. Any orders placed after that time will be delivered the following week.

 

 

Drop-off Location

Can you leave my groceries on my back porch while I'm at work?

 

We'll drop off your groceries in whatever location outside of your home you want. Just make a very specific note in the checkout notes about where to leave your food.

 

 

Refrigerated Items

How will my refrigerated items stay cold once they've been delivered?   

 

Refrigerated items will be packed in a reusable thermal bag with freezer packs when necessary. Ice cream and other dairy products really like a little more protection, so we suggest you leave a cooler with ice packs out and we'll put our thermal bags inside your cooler. If you find your food isn't as cold as you'd like, let us know and we'll change how we drop your refrigerated items off.

 

Can I use my own cooler?

 

If you prefer, you may leave your own cooler outside of the house with a blanket to fit inside. We'll put your perishables inside and wrap them in the blanket to keep the air from warming them. Using your own cooler packs is great, too— just be sure to mark them as your own.

 

 

Tipping

Should I tip the person who delivers my groceries?

 

We love to hear about it when an employee is doing a great job. If you feel your driver has given you exceptional service, please call or write to us instead of giving tips. Hard work, thoughtfulness and cleverness are valued at Garden Gate.

 

 

Paying By Check

I prefer not to pay by credit card. Can I pay by check?

 

If you would prefer not to use a credit card, debit card or Paypal, you may leave a check at your designated drop-off area. If the check is not there, we will be unable to leave your groceries and a $5 restocking fee will be added to your next order.