Creatively-served food and drink can delight some restaurant guests and anger others. Here, WLC takes a look at some of the worst offenders.
The list of abominations, gathered by We Want Plates, showcases a medley of dishes and drinks served in obscure ways. Indeed, the world of hospitality is a fun place, but evidence gathered below suggests that sometimes it can also be one where you wonder if the chefs and owners are more than a little mad.
Here’s a rundown of some of the best/worst serves that made customers gasp and grimace before running for the door.
1, Corn on a bolt
It can indeed be a bit tricky to eat corn on the cob without a napkin or the correct skewers. Although here, this camping DIY themed serve feels a little industrial, if not dangerous.
![](https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/content/uploads/2023/05/corn-bolt-768x748-1-640x623.jpg)
2, A decent measure of Cola
In this flashback to times when you’re a student and nobody’s done the washing up, this Coca Cola served in a measuring jug is an hilarious throwback. Was that the point? No. We have no idea why anyone would serve a drink like this.
![](https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/content/uploads/2023/05/coke-in-a-measuring-jug.jpg)
3, A pint of shepherd’s pie
In a recent news piece we revisited the horror of pub goers being served their shepherd’s pie in a pint glass. Protestations were many and were heard loud and clear across social media.
![](https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/content/uploads/2023/05/shepherds-pie-in-a-glass-536x640.jpg)
4, Meat Barbie
In a strange mix between toilet roll dolly and Lady Gaga this could be a fashionable way to serve your charcuterie. Or not.
![](https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/content/uploads/2023/05/meat_dress-640x521.jpg)
5, Marmite on toast
Although we are no stranger to deconstructed dishes, when you order Marmite on toast, you don’t always expect it to be served with such a flourish. This pub chef must be hugely frustrated to not be working in fine dining.
![](https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/content/uploads/2023/05/Marmite-on-toast.jpg)
6, Breakfast from the operating table
Yes, it’s a vegetarian breakfast. But we’re not sure why it is served in a surgical tray. A little clinical? Yes. At least there’s no blood-red ketchup or any sharp knives.
![](https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/content/uploads/2023/05/tray-breakfast.jpg)
7, Spag bol in a glass
As we’ve said before, if we wanted to eat our favourite foods from a glass we would ask for it. But this looks like a worm farm from hell.
![](https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/content/uploads/2023/05/Spag-bol-in-glass-480x640.jpg)
8, Savoury sundae
It’s a nice touch when your streaky bacon serves as a garnish. All the same, nobody wants to eat beans with a long dessert spoon and have to dig deep.
![](https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/content/uploads/2023/05/Sundae-with-bacon-and-mash.jpg)
9, Sausage brew
Like a storm in a teacup. Only, with sausages and onions. It’s a carvery side serve that would not look out of place at a Mad Hatter’s party.
![](https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/content/uploads/2023/05/Sausage-teacups.jpg)
10, Prawn cocktail surprise
Back in the day you used to be able to win a goldfish at the fairground. Now, due to ethical standards, you can only glimpse them for the time it takes to finish your prawn cocktail starter.
![](https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/content/uploads/2023/05/goldfish-under-prawn-cocktail-480x640.jpg)
This article was originally published by the drinks business and has been shared with permission.