A family of five adults and four children allegedly orchestrated a coordinated exit from a Turkish restaurant in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, without settling a £160 bill. The group reportedly consumed a sharing platter, lamb ribs, beers, and other beverages before departing in a white van.
General manager Klaus Ademi stated that the group initially appeared normal and did not over-order. However, when presented with the bill, they claimed they would pay shortly. CCTV footage captured the diners leaving the restaurant incrementally, with the final individual departing shortly after.
Ademi believes the staggered departure was a deliberate plan to avoid payment and has posted the CCTV footage on social media to warn other businesses and urge the family to pay.
The group ordered a sharing platter, lamb ribs, three beers, a strawberry daiquiri, a Coke Zero, and a lemonade. The incident occurred while Ademi was off shift, and his staff alerted him to the situation, showing him the CCTV evidence.
Ademi expressed his anger and upset over the incident, noting that such occurrences are difficult for family-run businesses, especially given rising operational costs. He indicated plans to report the group to the police.
In a social media post, Ademi addressed the individuals involved, offering them an opportunity to contact the restaurant and settle the outstanding balance. He emphasized that the departure appeared to be a deliberate decision rather than an oversight. The restaurant plans to provide all available evidence to the police and is alerting other local businesses to be vigilant.
The restaurant stated that independent establishments are facing significant pressure from rising food, wage, and energy costs, making a £159.60 loss substantial. The business relies on customer honesty to sustain its operations.