Incident Overview

In a startling incident that unfolded on January 11, a Japanese restaurant located at Jewel Changi Airport became the scene of a brazen dine-and-dash. Three women, who appeared to enjoy a leisurely dinner at the counter, placed an order totaling $64.27 before disappearing without paying.

The Discovery

As the clock struck 8 PM, Gu, a 48-year-old staff member, noticed an inconsistency in the restaurant's seating chart displayed on their computer system. Despite seeing five tables recorded, only four groups of diners were present in the bustling eatery. "It was peak dining time, and I was busily moving between the kitchen and dining area," Ms. Gu explained to Shin Min Daily News.

Investigation

Concerned about the missing table, Ms. Gu alerted her supervisor, who promptly reviewed the CCTV footage. The investigation confirmed their worst fears: the three women had walked out without squaring the bill for their meal, which included two bowls of udon, a chawanmushi set with seafood donburi, and a drink.

Staff Impact

Under the restaurant’s policy, Ms. Gu was ultimately responsible for the unpaid meal, leaving her frustrated and disheartened. This dine-and-dash instance was not an isolated case; the restaurant reportedly experienced a total of three similar incidents in the previous year, perpetrated by both local patrons and tourists.

Previous Incidents

In one particularly audacious episode, a diner ordered the most expensive dish on the menu and, after enjoying the meal, confidently walked out. "I ran after him to collect payment," Ms. Gu recalled. "He insisted he thought he had already paid - a rather absurd excuse!"

Proactive Measures

In response to the rising trend of dine-and-dash incidents, which not only affect staff morale but also impact the restaurant's revenue, the establishment has taken proactive measures. They have recently put up prominent signage at the counter, warning customers about the presence of CCTV cameras and urging them to settle their bills before leaving.

Conclusion

As the restaurant grapples with these challenges, it's a stark reminder of how some individuals have little regard for the hard work that goes into the hospitality industry. As the staff work tirelessly to ensure a memorable dining experience for customers, it is unfortunate that some choose to exploit their efforts.