IKEA Foodhall — Restaurant in Walsall

Visited the IKEA Birmingham branch on Monday, 26 May 2025, at 10:00 AM for breakfast with my family. While queuing to pay, we observed a couple ahead of us facing difficulties with their payment cards. A staff member informed them that their cards were invalid due to the absence of signatures and requested alternative cards. Unfortunately, the couple's subsequent cards were also unsigned or declined. It was evident that the couple faced language barriers, which compounded their confusion and distress.

What was particularly concerning was the manner in which the staff member addressed the situation. The approach appeared abrupt and lacking in empathy, which not only embarrassed the couple but also caused discomfort among other customers in the queue. The entire incident resulted in a delay of approximately ten minutes, during which our breakfasts became cold, diminishing our dining experience.

I believe that this situation could have been handled with greater sensitivity and professionalism, especially considering the couple's evident challenges in understanding the situation. Clear communication and a compassionate approach are essential in such scenarios to ensure all customers feel respected and valued.

I hope IKEA considers this feedback to improve their customer service training and ensure a more pleasant experience for...

Very disappointing experience at IKEA Birmingham restaurant – 26 May 2025

This morning around 10:00 AM, we went to IKEA Birmingham for breakfast. After collecting our food, we queued up at the till. An employee named something like Charles (a woman) was behind the counter.

There was an East Asian couple in front of us. When it was their turn to pay, the cashier refused to accept their bank card, claiming it didn't have a signature on it. She also refused to accept cash. The man showed multiple cards, but she kept insisting that unless he provided a signed ID to compare with the card, she wouldn’t accept any payment.

This held up the entire line for nearly 15 minutes. Eventually, the man managed to find a card she was willing to accept.

It was completely inappropriate — who is she to demand a signature on a bank card? It’s not a cheque! The cashier humiliated the couple in front of everyone and created a very uncomfortable atmosphere. By the time we got to eat, our breakfast was cold and the whole experience was ruined — not just for us but for everyone in the queue.

This kind of customer service is unacceptable and left a very negative impression...

Decided to try the famous meatballs as I'd heard so much about them. The queue was like being in a school hall, a bit off putting, but we stuck it out. There was a few dessert choices at the start. I picked from the top shelf right at the back as the other shelves were perfect sneezing and coughing height. Some doors or covers might be a good idea! The hot food is served by dinner ladies, they are quick and efficient. The price for two meatballs, a drink each and a pudding was around £20. There was a lot of food, but expensive for what it is. The gravy and berry sauce was nice. I'm glad I've tried it but I won't go back. I'm sure they are the same meatballs that they sell in Iceland!! We had kids running around playing tag while eating in the dinner hall (think service station/school hall) which was really not nice. This wasn't Ikea's fault obviously but was still very annoying none the less. The dinner hall was clean and there were quite a few spare tables as it seems as one table sit another leave...