Fast Food, Friendly Service? Is something in the air?

I utilize fast food somewhat regularly when I'm hungry and need something quick.

I don't go overboard and get something fairly healthy, like a grilled chicken and a diet coke.

Anyway, I've used the drive thru at Mcdonalds three times in the last two weeks. I've noticed that the employees have been doing exactly what they are supposed to do, the've been courteous and friendly. Nothing special, but simple things like acknowledging that your a person (lol) with a geniune "hello", making eye contact and giving a geniune "thank you".

I really hate it when they hand me my food while they are looking another direction, turn away and close the window.

In addition what has struck me, is these have been young kids, teenagers, typical fast food workers.

I guess what I'm gettting at is that it does make a difference and makes me more likely to return.

What are your experiences?

There are a few locations of McDonald's and a few other fast food chains where I've always been impressed with their friendliness and customer service. Often, I will call the management of the location and let them know how much I appreciate that employees customer service skills, and because of that employee I will be back. Even in places like that, I think they appreciate customer feedback.

I think that if I run through the drive through at one of Junior Bridgeman's Wendy's (for a spicy chicken sandwich - not horrible when rushed!) the service tends to be a bit higher quality. There have been occasions when Junior himself is working a window, which I am fairly certain is to let the staffers know how important that job is.

The Chick-fil-a on Vetrerans in C-ville has the best drive thru service hands down! Your in and out even if the line is wrapped around the building!

The McDonald's at the corner of Dutchman's and Breckenridge is awesome as well. They are so speedy, I never even worry about how long the line is when I'm rushing to work. I never worry about my order being wrong, either!
Like Amy, I too have actually sent in positive comments about wonderful experiences. It feels so good to be able to do so for a fast food restaurant!

[Robin Garr]

What are your experiences?

As I reported in the recent article, the crew at the new Taco Tico really outdo themselves to give you old-fashioned counter service with a smile and a thank-you.

The Shively Taco Bell was more typical. The counter person wasn't overtly rude, but she seemed a million miles away, listening to the music inside her head, I guess ...

I usually frequent the Qdoba on Bardstown road, where the service is friendly and everyone seems to genuinely be working well together. So on last thursday i stopped by the new location on poplar level and service was TERRIBLE. Seriously, it looked as if the employees hadnt had the will to live for hours. I thought about mentioning something to the manager, but then i realized that he was the grumpiest looking one of the bunch. I think from now on ill stick to old faithful on b-town and eastern.

I usually frequent the Qdoba on Bardstown road, where the service is friendly and everyone seems to genuinely be working well together. So on last thursday i stopped by the new location on poplar level and service was TERRIBLE. Seriously, it looked as if the employees hadnt had the will to live for hours. I thought about mentioning something to the manager, but then i realized that he was the grumpiest looking one of the bunch. I think from now on ill stick to old faithful on b-town and eastern.

Usually the one on Breckenridge is pretty good as well. For a while there was a lady there who would be REALLY MEAN if you forgot to order your chips at the front of the line, but she's gone.

One time I was in there and about to pay and she asked, "Is that all for you?" At which point I realized I forgot the chips and queso, so I reply "Oh yeah! I needed a chips and queso." This isn't like ordering another burrito... scoop cheese in cup, shovel chips in bag, done. But she proceeded to absolutely berate me for not ordering them at the front of the line.

I get why it's best to order at the beginning, and usually I do, but don't lash out at customers. Your food is decent, but you don't get to be the Soup Nazi.

Soup Nazi? Were you having the soup?

I remember something about chips and queso.

I that case you would have to be the queso cop.
keep smiling,

Well, metaphoricly of course.