How do you make a 600-seat cafe feel like home? You put Dolores Pierre on the floor as an “attendant” and she immediately transforms the large public space.
Dolores is the smiling face so many of our visitors have met and taken the time to comment about. One thing I know from reading visitor comment cards is that people are quick to criticize and make suggestions, but it is rare for them to take the time to give a compliment. But that is what Dolores inspires people to do.
Visitors, or “guests to her dining room” as Dolores likes to think of them, often enter the Stars and Stripes Cafe tired, grumpy, and simply in search of food. Dolores gives them that priceless something extra. It might be as simple as a high chair or glass of water. Other times it is advice about exhibits, other museums, or the Metro. Everyone she meets gets a piece of her heart and a smile. “My mother told me my heart is my weakness and my strength. Making others happy makes me happy.”
People know they are going to learn something when they visit the museum. They’re happily surprised when they learn what a difference one person can make.
Kathy Sklar is the business program manager at the National Museum of American History.
I agree, the food and atmosphere was a welcome treat after a hectic day for me. I look forward to returning soon and bringing friends with me this time. Keep up the good work and service.
Thanks Again
Posted by: Roy | June 30, 2010 at 08:22 PM
Susan: I am glad you were pleased with your lunch at the Stars and Stripes Café. I agree that the food is fresh and wonderful.
The dessert you enjoyed is called “Peaches and Cream Pie.” It is an original creation of our chef: cake on the bottom with a peach half in the middle and cream cheese frosting on top. Let me know if you want the recipe, or you can come back to the museum and try it again.
Thanks again for your thoughtful comment.
Posted by: NMAH | October 16, 2009 at 11:54 AM
I was in the cafe of the American History museum last week and had the most DELICIOUS lunch...NC BBQ, Collard greens, and a peach dessert. Looked like a popover sort of...had peaches, cream cheese, inside with a cake around it. Absolutely delicious. I can't remember the name...can anyone tell me?
Posted by: Susan Hollis | October 14, 2009 at 07:58 AM
It's nice to have a person like this around that can transform such a mundane atmosphere into a nice experience. My home city of Bangor Maine has some nice restaurants and locations where either the owner or an excellent manager/employee seem to set the mood and make the experience better. Thanks for the info.
Posted by: John | March 19, 2009 at 10:42 PM
Thank you for posting about this warm and friendly lady. She greeted me as I arrived for a quick lunch and I felt like I was in her home. I watched her greeting other visitors that day and they all fell under her spell of welcoming good will. Please let her know she made my day!
Posted by: Carey | March 01, 2009 at 06:52 PM
It's amazing what one person can do, a little smile and a bit of personality goes a long way in making other people feel as happy as yourself. Good on yah Dolores!
Posted by: | February 25, 2009 at 07:42 PM