Thai customer complains about buffet restaurant staff service

A heated social media argument erupted between a buffet restaurant and a dissatisfied customer, leading to a legal dispute. The incident began when a Facebook user posted a critical review of a conveyor belt hotpot buffet restaurant in the New Students MSU 68 group, citing poor service, especially in terms of the staff’s communication.

The restaurant owner responded with a detailed explanation, defending the establishment. The owner stated that the customer had inappropriately taken a communal dish (tteok-bokki) and placed it on their lap, despite being in the company of four other diners.

The manager had merely requested that the customer cover the dish to prevent it from drying out, contradicting claims of any aggressive behaviour as alleged in the customer’s post.

The owner further disputed the claim that the manager had shouted at the customer to close the door gently. Surveillance footage, reviewed from the time the customer entered until they left, reportedly showed no such incident occurred.

The owner expressed frustration at the customer’s suggestion that others should think twice before going, emphasising that the issue stemmed from the customer’s behaviour at the table, which was disrespectful to other diners.

In a passionate message, the owner swore on sacred entities that their account was truthful and challenged the customer to present any evidence of misconduct, proposing that the CCTV footage be used in court if necessary. The owner declared their intention to pursue legal action against the individual, identified only as Miss D, without any possibility of settlement.

Inappropriate complaint

The owner implored the public to consider that even anonymous posts can be traced and that such damaging actions should cease. They emphasised that there are many appropriate channels for complaints and that no business wants to face ruin. The restaurant is open to constructive feedback and willing to make improvements, but the owner felt compelled to defend their business against false accusations.

Ultimately, the customer who posted the critical review issued a public apology, admitting that the post was made in anger and that they only wanted the staff to communicate more politely. The customer expressed willingness to apologise formally if needed and stated their intention to remain a regular patron of the restaurant.

They also mentioned their financial inability to compensate the restaurant, having only a little over a thousand baht to their name.

In response, the restaurant owner reiterated that monetary compensation was required and confirmed that legal action had been initiated against the customer, reported KhaoSod.