If he thinks they are a requirement and he passed you without requiring them I would have to say he is not much of an inspector. 1999 NEC 210-8 (b) Other than dwelling units. Bathrooms and rooftops. Is the lunch room in either of these locations? 90-4 DOES NOT give permision to the AHJ to change the code as written, the allowance is for intrpretation. There is a big difference between those two. 2002 Does require them in kitchens but as has been stated when does a lunchroom become a kitchen. I would argue there must be a range or stove of some type. Not portable appliances like a toaster oven or microwave as these could be used in any room.
