The saga of a lunch break

Dear Chabot cafeteria,

First, I would like to commend you for your incorporation of diverse (however selective) menu of ethnic foods, and your accommodation of varied diets including vegan and vegetarian options. 

However, after my experience in your establishment, I find that your service leaves something to be desired. Allow me to divulge my experience today:

Upon entering your establishment bustling with hungry young minds, I selected what appeared to be the most expedient option to acquire my lunch, which happened to be the pizza/deli station. After carefully reviewing the pizza selections, I noted the absence of a detailed ingredient list, and therefore asked the kind young man operating the station what toppings were on the chicken pizza. He listed off the ingredients, which included onions, peppers, and the obvious protein. I ordered happily, and upon receiving my meal I requested the common condiment of ranch, to which he replied they did not offer. I took my lunch just the same, and made my way to the salad bar, at which ranch was readily supplied. However, upon pouring my favored dressing into a soufflé cup, I was somewhat unpleasantly surprised at the torrential velocity at which the ranch jettisoned itself out of the dispenser.

With my hands gloved in white, I frantically searched for a napkin, or towel, or anything that might assist me in quickly mopping up the embarrassing mess now occupying the bar and floor. A bit flustered, I approached the Mexican food station attendant and requested materials with which I might correct my untimely mishap. She obliged, and I did the best I could, only to find a waste basket absent of the premises. Shamed, I was left no other choice but to return the soiled paper towels to the attendant, who, thankfully apologetic, assured me that it was no problem.

My accident now behind me, I hopped in line to pay the cashier. All the while, I had not paid attention to the physical state of my meal, and upon observing my culinary masterpiece, I found it adorned with sausage in abundance, of which I do not consume. I was thus forced to relinquish my spot in line to correct this mistake. The pizza station attendant, ever-apologetic, remade my pizza without objection. However, that left the perfectly good pizza in the trash.

I reentered the line with a renewed sense of anticipation. Yet, as I approached the tired-looking cashier, I felt my confidence begin to slip.

You see, I have had various negative (and thankfully brief) encounters with this particular lunch lady, anywhere from just a bad attitude, to impatience, or to demanding the purchase of an item before dispensing change to selected students. 

So, naturally, I approached with caution. I noted, as she rang in my purchases of the pizza for $3.95 and an apple juice for $1.25, that she mysteriously included a $.50 cent charge. I had an idea of the purpose, and only after completing the transaction did I vocalize an opinion that while I was prepared to pay the extra charge, it might behoove the staff to place a sign in front of the dressing station stating that there would be an extra $.50 charge for dressing sides. At this, she waved me off and snapped that everyone knows there is an extra charge, to which I patiently explained that I did not, and perhaps they should erect the sign nonetheless. She dismissed me again, which has led to the writing of this rant. Upon exiting, I noticed the napkin dispenser at her side.

To make a few points:

Listing ingredients lessens waste, and saves money in inventory.

Providing utensils and the like inside of your establishment may be more convenient for your patrons.

Charging an extra $.50 for ranch on a pizza for $3.95 doesn't make sense when your salads run for under the price of the pizza. However, if you must, then at least place a courtesy sign up to inform your guests of the up-charge.

Nothing can ruin an experience more than poor customer service. Please communicate this with the bitter lunch lady who refuses to extend any kindness to your guests.

Until the next time I am cashless and thereby forced to enter your cafeteria, I will certainly elect to purchase my meals at the food truck. Although the wait is longer, my 20-minute misadventure today deems it quite worthwhile.

Good day,

A disgruntled customer