OK, I've read the whole thread sans what was (I assume) rightfully deleted.
The worst thing anyone can do is respond to ridiculous criticism (Rae Hodge's spiteful essays) with even more ridiculousness. Business owners must be, above anything else, pragmatic.
The perfect response to Hodge's initial destructive nonsense would be just to say "For the very small part of the adventurous review that referred to Ms. Hodge's dining experience, we apologize and certainly will take steps to correct any deficiencies identified. We are always open to constructive criticism, and we will always strive to make our wonderful customers happy. Oh, and we love Nulu!" That's it. And it would have underlined the review's ridiculousness perfectly.
I identify with and admire Sowder's out-in-front thinking (I _really_ identify with this -- people who know me know what I'm talking about). However, pragmatism is going to have to creep back into the picture for all this to have any chance of working.
I have noted many constructive ideas offered in this thread, from professionals and non-professionals alike.
For instance, if you really want to make an environmental impact _and_ reduce costs, use reusable plates and utensils for those who are dining in. Remember (and I say this as an admitted Reduce/Reuse/Recycle Nazi), Reuse comes ahead of Recycle for a reason. You can probably find plates/utensils made of recycled materials, or buy them secondhand (reuse!), or here's a thought: Ask your adoring customers to donate dishes! (and have you checked out Freecycle?) I have a feeling that a dishwasher (human or machine) is less expensive than what you're shelling out for the recycled materials. If you want to use recycled materials, save that for the takeout. And even with that, think of any way you can to _reduce_ what you give to customers without reducing their quality experience.
Another constructive idea was to serve margaritas -- Obvious one, too.
Here's an idea just from me: Expand your definition of "local" in local sourcing. Maybe think more regionally. Yes, it's a compromise, but it may just be a money-saving compromise that's in reality a negligible hit on the environment. And nobody who really cares about your success would blame you for doing this.
In the end, you can be a leader without being a bleeder.