A restaurant owner has ignited a debate across Australia after publicly shaming a birthday diner for refusing to pay a $33 "cakeage" fee. Hayley Hardcastle, owner of Tutti by Chilli's in Ettalong Beach, New South Wales, shared a letter she sent to the customer on Instagram, detailing the incident.
In the letter, Hardcastle expressed disappointment that the birthday girl had refused to pay the charge, noting that she had been informed of the fee via email prior to her booking. The owner emphasized that the customer had utilized the restaurant's resources, including prepared tables, tableware, glassware, and heating, for an outside cake.
Hardcastle stated that the dispute was less about the monetary amount and more about respecting hospitality workers and small businesses. She argued that if customers consistently brought their own food without charge, restaurants would struggle to operate. "At this point, it is not simply about the $33. It is about showing courtesy and respect for our team and the work that goes into creating this space for you to enjoy," she wrote.
The post quickly went viral, eliciting a strong reaction from social media users, with opinions sharply divided. Some users criticized the fee, calling it "ridiculous" and an example of being "nickel and dimed," particularly citing the per-person charge. Others commented that such fees are uncommon in other countries, such as England, where restaurants are often accommodating of outside cakes.
Conversely, many users defended the restaurant owner's position. Supporters argued that restaurants should not be expected to provide services for free and that a cakeage fee is reasonable, especially when customers are informed in advance. Some likened it to bringing one's own steak to a restaurant and expecting it to be cooked without charge.
Hardcastle told media outlets that the incident had sparked "great discussion and awareness for both venues and guests." She explained that allowing BYO cake was a new service for their venue, introduced because they understood that many people were facing financial difficulties. She clarified that the restaurant also bakes cakes in-house, priced comparably to their dessert menu, and the BYO option with a fee was offered as an alternative for those providing for an entire table.
