Laurene's Cafeteria — Restaurant in Charlotte

I was in the mood for some soul food and this place looked really good from the website. I wanted to call in my order but no one picked up and the memory was full. I called a total of 3x's. I decided to order online. The order went through with no problems. I arrived at Laurene's to find no at the front to greet or direct me. I had to walk around to find out where to go. I walked up to the food line and informed the lady behind the counter that I was there to pick up an online order. She stated that they do not do online orders. I asked "are you sure because the order went through along with the payment. She repeated that they do not do online orders and that I should speak with the owner. I stated that it should be disabled or it should say so on the website. I spoke to the Manager and she saw my payment was there and for me to just have my food prepared at that time. I go to do that but they do not have what I want. So I just got my payment refunded. As I was walking out I heard them say "Where is the phone? It's probably dead somewhere.. SMH, this is not how you run a business. Find your phone and CLEAR the memory...

I normally would give this place 4 or 5 stars but today when I went they did not have the regular lady that serves us the food . I have to figure out her name because she is the best and has the best customer service . Today when I went it was someone new servicing , AND the food was under seasoned portions were small . My oxtails were rubbery . Not to mention the Brownskin/light skin boy they have at the front needs to be fired I asked did they have any napkins (the drink machine squirted out weird ) juice was running down the cup and my hand ) he didn’t even look just said no because he was FaceTime with some girl . Charged me wrong total of food was $32 . 27 was suppose to be taken off my card the rest cash . He was not focused at all . Today was not the day to eat at laurens cafe I am a regular and disappointed that my money...

A friend wanted to take me to a soul food restaurant I had never been to which was here. First glance walking in was awesome. The front entrance was decorated and was warm and welcoming. Served cafeteria style I got oxtails greens and yams. The food had awesome home cooked flavors. I enjoyed all of it but I hope someone from Laurene's reads this. Please close the area with the sitting tables and old torn carpet. Use the other area and block that area off. It kills the foe of the restaurant. Not warm comfortable at all and should not be the first thing we see when paying for your food and looking for a seat. Just my opinion but I guarantee it will make people return. No one wants to remember that after eating such good food....