I'm very disappointed with today's experience at Elke's Deli. After years of patronizing Elke's…read moreunder both owners, I have never had an experience like this before. I've always appreciated the friendly relationship and welcoming atmosphere, especially with Kim, the newer owner.
Today, I called to confirm what time they closed. With about 25 minutes until closing, I placed my order and arrived within five minutes. When I walked in, Greg, the owner, was standing near my to-go order. I greeted him and gave him my name. As he was ringing me up, I asked if I could enter my phone number for the rewards program. He told me I could do that at the end and then asked what I wanted to order. I explained that I had already called in my order and repeated my name. He asked if it was a DoorDash order. I said no and that I believed I had spoken with him when I called. He responded that he had not spoken with me and called over the young man who was standing near the drinks.
After paying, I asked if I could sit down and eat. The young man didn't answer, but his expression made me feel as though the answer was no. I was very hungry, so I sat down to take a few quick bites.
At that point, I felt extremely uncomfortable. Greg stood toward the back of the dining room watching me and another customer who was seated and eating. He later walked near the bar and continued watching us. I felt unwelcome, so I ate half of my sandwich, got up, and left at approximately 6:01 p.m.
When I finished the rest of my food at home, I was also disappointed with the chicken salad sandwich. It did not taste like it has in the past. It seemed to have considerably more dressing and less chicken than I'm accustomed to.
This is genuinely the first time I have had a bad experience at Elke's Deli in Allen, which is why I'm especially disappointed. I have supported this business for years and have always enjoyed the food and the friendly atmosphere. I hope today was simply an unfortunate experience and not a reflection of how longtime customers are now being treated.
