Soup Plantation
It’s a funny name for a place. The word “plantation” is so antebellum. It conjures up images of large, black women named “Mammy” manning the salad bar. Mind you, there were large, black women there, but they were on the other side of the salad bar, grazing. I ended up at Soup Plantation because after mentioning that I was trying to watch what I eat and would like a salad, my frequent lunch date, Tim, suggested it. (Our friend Kimi refers to our lunches as “Man-Dates.” It sounds kind of gay. I don’t tell Kimi things anymore.) Deciding on where to go is often the toughest part of my day. I pretty much say “yes” to anything that isn’t ramen. Not that I don’t like it, I just have to be in the mood to eat a two gallon bowl of noodles and broth. Although I tend to fear buffets, not so much for unhygienic people tasting cream based soups heated over a low flame with their fingers, but more for my lack of self-control. I had some trepidation about going to a buffet, but I did a few affirmations in my rearview mirror and felt strong enough to go. Upon entering the Plantation, I was immediately greeted by Caroline. She was a large older woman with white hair and black sweats. She greeted everyone by saying, “Welcome to Soup Plantation.” I’ve only recently appreciated the word “welcome.” There’s something really warm about it. I’ve tried to incorporate it during my less populated happy hours but it just doesn’t suit me. I usually go to my fall back, “Beverage?” I’m still waiting for the customer who responds, “No, thank you. I’m here because I’ve heard about your pristine and luxurious restrooms.” Speaking of which, why don’t more bars have bidets? Lunch was actually pretty good. I went through the salad bar twice. Both times I got pretty much the same thing. I had to visit the pasta bar only because they had macaroni and cheese. There are certain things I feel compelled to order when they’re on the menu. Mac n’ Cheese is one. It sucked. Tim warned me. I refused to listen. I found it pretty interesting what people would have on their tray. Being a buffet, I don’t understand why anyone would have more than one plate, as some did. One woman had two bowls of soup and a salad. I believe that all you can eat is lost on them. Returning for my fourth dish of Mac n’ Cheese I realized that I would come back to Soup Plantation, but, next time I would have to limit myself to the salad bar.
