Dimly, I remember the time when you could buy a sandwich as the result of a perfectly normal interaction between two human beings facing each other across a counter. You would ask for something, they would give it to you, you would hand over money. But that was before UK sandwich-buying was standardised. I do not know whose idea standardisation was and no doubt it has brought many benefits for the customer. But you need to have your wits about you.
Do not fall into the trap I did when I put my veggie option down on the counter and feebly started trying to ask for tea.
‘Can I have a…’
‘Eat in or take away?’
‘Take away. Can I have a…’
‘Do you want a bag?’
‘Er, yes. Can I have a…’
‘Napkin?’
‘Thanks. Can I have a…’
‘Any teas or coffee with that?’
‘Ah, thank goodness…’
‘Any muffins?’
‘No, not muffins! Go back a step! I want a cup of…’
‘That will be four pounds fifty please.’
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