It sounds like the major mistake was doing away with the surcharge, which led to a tremendous amount of food waste, left behind by gluttons with a sense of entitlement.
It's only a $4 charge....for all you can eat. Have one less Piņa Colada and you come out ahead. If the surcharge offends your sensibilities, simply eat somewhere else.....'nuf said.
Remember, the company's fiduciary responsibility is to the shareholders....not the hamburger eatin' cruisers.