THE INTERNATIONAL HOUSE OF BROKEN DREAMS

Dear IHOP person,

My coworkers and I engaged in a typical morning discussion which (as usual) began with the topic of food. We were very excited about the new menu item and ad campaign currently being utilized by your franchise. Our dreary, rainy Monday morning was soon filled with excitement and joy as we all agreed that we would partake of the deliciousness that is "stuffed french toast" at lunchtime. We even waited until noon rather than going at our normal time of 11:00 a.m. so that our hunger level would be at a condusive level for the maximal enjoyment of said toast. We were also quite happy that an IHOP franchise was mere minutes away. Our enjoyment was further put on hold as a rogue co-worker needed to stop at an ATM machine on the way.

Needless to say, by the time we arrived at said franchise, our longing for the promissing snack had reached its apex. Once again, our enjoyment was delayed. There was a ten minute wait. We remained undaunted. Ten minutes was a small price to pay (and so is $3.99) for the utopian pastry.

I feel that mere words cannot convey to you the devastation that was to follow. As we were being led through the gates of heaven, we noticed the (small) sign that read, "We are currently out of stuffed french toast". My knees buckled slightly and I felt my mouth go completely dry. I peed a little.

We all felt betrayed. We briefly discussed the situation and all agreed that the International House of Broken Dreams had not earned our business this day. Perhaps in time we would begin the healing process. But not yet...not yet. I have decided to write you this email in the hopes that we might be the last victims of this needless pain. This is America , god bless us, and we are ALL entitled to life, liberty, and "stuffed french toast". I implore you as the franchiser of this dream that you can give us the one thing that is better than "stuffed french toast"; "Free stuffed french toast". Until such time, I don't believe I can, in good conscience, frequent the International House of Pancakes.

Thank you for your time and, if need be, goodbye forever.

IHOP's response:
Dear Mr. Silkett:

Thank you for taking the time to e-mail us concerning your experience at the IHOP in Austin , TX . While it is always disappointing to learn that we have not lived up to our guest's expectations, it is invaluable to receive feedback so that we are able to continually improve our level of guest satisfaction.

We are sorry to hear of the difficulties you encountered at this location. Please be assured that the matter will be shared with the proper individuals to address your concerns.

I have forwarded your e-mail to our Southwest Regional Office. They will discuss with the franchisee your experience in this restaurant.

Thank you for keeping us informed.

Sincerely,
Sandra Mendoza
Customer Service
Operations Services