Craving Denied: A Tale of an Unfulfilled Hamburger Order
- May 10, 2024
In this era of digital convenience, where an infinite range of goods and services are just fingertips away, sometimes the universe conspires to deny us our heart’s desires. Just last week, I was fixated on consuming a familiar hamburger from a restaurant that had employed me for a decade. This dining establishment is a mere two blocks away from my domicile, and I had been fantasizing about their hand-cut fries painted in an ocean of ketchup and mayonnaise. As dinner time loomed, my hunger escalated.
Being a former employee, I eschewed the available delivery apps. I placed a direct call to the restaurant, knowing they could retain more earnings this way. I eagerly requested, "I’d like to place an order for pickup, please." A brief pause before a regretful response sent my stomach into a spiral. "I’m sorry, we’re not doing any takeout right now."
What? This couldn't possibly be true. My dinner dreams sinking into disappointment, I struggled to understand why the restaurant would betray my hope of indulging in their culinary delight, especially in my own lounging area. My past employee memories kicked in. I remembered the usual reason for refusing takeout orders.
On this promising New York City day, bristling with the feeling of spring, I visualized the packed patio where I had once waited tables. The indoor space was likely bustling too. The restaurant runs lean, with just one chef, a server, and a bartender. When full to the brim, the restaurant owner, also the chef, often elected to shut off delivery services. The aim was to dedicate attention to the patrons in the restaurant who found themselves serviced by an overstretched team. The focus was to avoid compromising the dining experience in a bid to handle more than what was manageable.
Despite my intense hunger for that particular hamburger, I empathised with the owner's viewpoint. Accepting my fate, I tried to sound buoyant as I replied, "I totally understand. Y’all have a good night." The voice at the other end expressed relief, suggesting previous callers might not have shown the same understanding.
For many, the inability to place a takeout order was often met with disgruntlement. Yet, they usually failed to appreciate the importance of prioritising in-house customers. With my immediate craving unsatisfied, I reconsidered my dinner options. Within a few moments, I had requested delivery of my alternate favorite neighborhood burger.
In the end, we can't always have what we fancy at the precise moment we want it, even in the age of instant gratification. Our deepest cravings will be fulfilled eventually. However, the satisfaction of these desires depends on the alignment of the timing and circumstances.