"Couple Demanding Free 'Scrambled Eggs for Kids' Service... Store Owner Sighs"

A Couple Demanded "Scrambled Eggs Service for Their Child" at a Restaurant
When Refused, They Complained "This Place Is Crossing the Line"

A restaurant in a busy district. The photo is not related to any specific expression in the article. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Hyun-joo] A parent who visited a restaurant demanded that the staff prepare a dish not on the menu as a complimentary service for their child, sparking public outrage.

The restaurant owner, Mr. A, posted on an online community on the 3rd under the title "A woman demanding service, and the man just watching," beginning by saying, "I wonder if I am being stingy."

Mr. A explained, "A part-time worker went to the kitchen looking uneasy and asked me about it. A couple with two children ordered a two-person menu and requested scrambled eggs as a complimentary service. Although the part-timer informed them that a kids' menu was available, the female customer retorted, 'Is it so difficult to scramble two eggs for the child?'"

When Mr. A personally approached the table and explained, "We are unable to provide such a service," the female customer frowned and complained, saying, "You said you understood earlier, didn't you? This place is crossing the line."

Mr. A said, "The husband sitting beside her just watched silently, and I was at a loss for words," adding, "From a quick glance at the keys on the table, it looked like they drove a nice car, but it's disappointing to see a lady demanding free service and the owner just watching."

He continued, "What decision-making power would a young part-timer have? Even the manager told acquaintances that there are no complimentary services beyond drinks. I dislike accepting such free orders, but the kitchen chefs dislike it even more." He added, "Seeing the downcast part-timer, I felt conflicted and sent a gifticon to encourage them, but it’s really frustrating," and confessed, "I don't think I handled it perfectly, but I feel exasperated."