New 'kitchen fee" debate in New York restaurants
Diners in Western New York are encountering a novel addition to their restaurant bills: a "kitchen appreciation fee."
According to the report, this fee, averaging around 3%, is intended to supplement the wages of kitchen staff who typically don't receive tips. However, the implementation of this fee has sparked debate among customers.
The new fee has left some diners confused and hesitant.
Customers are unsure of the fee's purpose and whether it's mandatory. The fear of being perceived negatively for opting out adds to the awkwardness.
The New York State Restaurant Association president, Melissa Fleischut, explains the rationale behind the fee.
With rising costs and diners becoming more price-sensitive, restaurants are reluctant to raise menu prices directly. The "kitchen appreciation fee" is seen as a way to boost kitchen staff wages without significantly impacting customer bills.
"The consumers becoming more and more price conscience and adverse to higher prices. Our restaurant owners are [really] afraid of increasing prices so much, you stop coming out," Fleishchut went on.
On social media, the debate surrounding this new fee has sparked.
While the fee aims to benefit kitchen staff, some diners believe a direct wage increase would be a more transparent solution.
Comments on social media reflect this sentiment, with some suggesting restaurants simply pay their employees more and avoid a separate.
One person said: This sounds like a democrat thing… their goal is for everyone to be broke.
A second wrote: Well, if they're at it might as well add other fees, like the cleaners fee, the dishwasher fee, the ambiance fee, bathroom fee, and the server's tip.
While a third commented: I would have exact change, minus the kitchen fee, leave it at the cash register and walk out!!!
Someone else said: If I'm a great customer, not demanding, very appreciative, can I expect a discount on my meal? Does this go both ways?
Several users admitted that they acknowledge the challenges posed by this fee.
They mentioned the disparity between wait staff tips and the static wages of kitchen staff. The "kitchen appreciation fee" remains a contentious issue.
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