Workers smoking instead of working
On January 28, 2026, I prepaid $22.18 for a food order at Waffle House, store #1656 in Lumberton, NC, with a confirmed pickup time of 12:31 AM. When I arrived at approximately 12:40 AM, the order had not been prepared. The restaurant was empty of customers, and only one employee was inside while multiple employees were outside smoking marijuana, not performing their duties.
I requested the order and was told I would need to wait an additional 20 minutes, despite the SLA (service level agreement) having already been missed. Because the food was not ready, I requested a refund before leaving, but no refund was provided. I left without receiving any food or services.
This experience demonstrates a failure to meet basic service standards and raises serious concerns about staff conduct, operational oversight, and adherence to the store’s service commitments. I have already submitted complaints via Waffle House’s website, the Better Business Bureau, and the North Carolina Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division, but I am still seeking a resolution.
I am requesting a full refund of $22.18 and that this location review its operational and staffing practices to prevent future customers from experiencing the same issue.