I doubt it’s only me that experienced it. But it’s first time for me. I was at this courtyard and went downstairs to have breakfast. It’s a small set up and not much to choose from. The staff were totally swamped and I had to wait for minutes to get the silverware and napkin. So it wasn’t enjoyable to begin with, but I didn't mind it too much.

Then when I went over to pay for it afterwards – for which I had to stand there for 5 minutes and wait as well – I was asked what I had.

I didn’t know what to say. Well, I said I had the buffet. Then she asked the person behind me, who said only juice and muffin. She waved and told her not to worry about it.

Well, that’s what I had too. But too late to give the correct answer. She handed me the bill and I signed it.

I guess I could have asked at that point. Me being me, I didn’t – she was very busy.

I guess she was just being nice to the other person so I don't know I want to complain about it.

But I do feel the inconsistency left bad taste in my mouth. Therefore as my way to deal with it, I’m posting it here on flyertalk.

Awkward to say the least. But have you ever had a breakfast (or another meal) comped by a hotel? When you didn't neccesarily expect it? If so, now you're even. It all "comes out in the wash" sometimes.

Yes, I've had breakfast comps at hotels on occasion (for reasons unrelated to an elite status), but still, this property should follow some sort of better process that what the OP describes. Personally, I would have no problems with the other person getting a comp...I'd just be frustrated at the general disorganization and chaoticness of the entire thing.

That said, it's just breakfast and I'd probably do exactly what the OP is doing....not make a huge deal of it at the hotel, but post it on FT as soon as I had the chance!

FWIW, I've never been refused when I've gone up to a Courtyard waiter and asked if I could grab a quick muffin to-go from the buffet. I've never even been looked at funny. It's like, "yeah, sure, go for it."

I just go in with lots of inertia, to show that I'm going to be in and out quick and low maintanence.