FAQs
Answering your frequently asked questions
We have created this collection of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help enhance your experience of our products and services.
Why was the large deck at Newton’s removed, and when will more seating space be available?
The deck at Newton’s was removed due to ongoing safety concerns and escalating repair costs. Plans are in place to extend the outdoor seating area with a new, more stable solution as soon as capital funding becomes available.
Where can I send menu suggestions to contribute to the ongoing improvement of the Newton’s à la carte menu?
The team at Newton’s would love to hear about your favourite dishes or items you would like to see on the menu. Please feel free to email your suggestions to newton@csir.co.za at any time. Your favourite dish could be featured on the menu next.
What is Newton’s doing to improve the speed of service to ensure I receive my order promptly and have enough time to enjoy it during my lunch break?
To improve service speed, the team is implementing several measures to reduce waiting times. As Newton’s meals are freshly prepared to order, some dishes may take approximately 25 – 35 minutes to prepare. To address this, we are reviewing staffing levels during peak periods to streamline food preparation and service.
Furthermore, we have introduced daily hot meals that require minimal preparation and are available from 10:30 am. Grab-and-go: This offering is specifically designed for customers who need a quick meal on the move. These meals are convenient, easy to eat and freshly prepared each morning.
Newton’s website: Our online platform allows customers to place orders hours in advance from the comfort of their offices. This enables you to order ahead and collect your meal at a time convenient for you.
We recognise that prompt service is critical during lunch hours and will continue to monitor our service levels to improve the overall customer experience.
Does Newton’s offer value for money?
While it may seem that an eatery located on campus should be able to offer products and services at lower prices than establishments outside the CSIR, the reality is that Newton’s faces many of the same operating costs, including rent, utilities and staffing expenses. Although we may not be able to compete with petrol station convenience-store prices, we are committed to providing higher-quality offerings and work hard every day to keep Newton’s pricing as competitive as possible. Take a look at the graph below, which compares the cost of a toasted sandwich at Newton’s with those available at surrounding eateries.
Why does Newton’s only accept online orders with payment and not telephonic orders?
Due to the large number of telephonic orders left uncollected and unpaid, Newton’s had to transition to online orders only to ensure that all orders are paid for when placed, thereby reducing food waste and keeping costs in check. We regularly update the technology behind the website ordering platform, and we expect ongoing performance improvements and possibly the return of on-site deliveries (suggestions for eco-friendly, speedy delivery vehicles welcome).
Why does Newton’s no longer have a delivery service?
When the C&A team took over the operation of Newton’s in 2021, we started with a delivery service because team members were available and campus occupancy was low. As occupancy increased, all team members had to return to the floor and the demand for deliveries outstripped our available resources. The delivery of takeaway orders is a priority for Newton’s and, as soon as Newton’s is on solid financial ground, we plan to reintroduce deliveries. We are currently working on developing the most feasible and cost-effective method of doing so. In the interim, Newton’s delivers group catering to meeting rooms across the campus, so feel free to place an order.