In the Czech Republic, a restaurant has started fining guests for not finishing their meals
The buffet in the restaurant is only available at lunch. The selection of dishes is modest – several types of meat and side dishes. Visitors pay 97 crowns for entry, and then they can eat anything they want in unlimited quantities. After the meal, the plate must be taken to the kitchen, and if anything remains on it, the guest will be asked to pay an additional 50 crowns.
As Vinegret.cz notes, the rule has been in effect for several months, and information about it is posted at the entrance and in the hall.
"Fifty crowns – it seems to me an adequate amount. To date, about ten people have been subject to the penalty. But don't think that we fine people for every uneaten bite. If someone leaves a little potato or dumpling on the plate, of course, we don't pay attention to that," restaurant owner Roman Vozhishik told iDNES.
Local residents praise the establishment. In neighboring restaurants, portions are limited, and the cost of lunch exceeds 100 crowns.
"One of the fined individuals swore a lot, claiming that the food was terrible, so he couldn't finish it. I tried the dish myself; it was tasty. In the end, the client paid 50 crowns and, to my great surprise, came back the next day," Vozhishik added.
The Czech Trade Inspection found nothing illegal in this practice. They noted that the restaurant is obliged to clearly and understandably inform consumers about the applicable rules. Since this was done, the inspecting body can have no complaints.
At the same time, the inspection emphasized that if a client suddenly refuses to pay the fine for an uneaten dish, the restaurant can only seek payment through one avenue – via the court.