Karon noodle shop in Phuket calls out alleged dine-and-dash over B70 bill

A Karon noodle shop in Phuket has publicly accused a foreign customer of a dine-and-dash after she allegedly left a B70 bill unpaid following a meal at about 2:55pm on Saturday, Apr 25. The case went viral after the restaurant posted CCTV footage and an account of the incident on a local Facebook page.

The owner said the woman ordered basil chicken on rice and an extra serving of plain rice, bringing the total to B70.

After eating, she told staff she had no money with her and asked to go to a nearby shop in Soi Thaina to collect cash. Staff allowed her to leave because of the small amount, but she did not return before closing time that evening.

Owner says similar excuses have become a burden

The owner told reporters the incident was especially frustrating because it was not an isolated case.

He said some customers claim they forgot their wallet, cannot transfer money or have no internet access, leaving small businesses to absorb repeated losses.

In this case, the woman reportedly left behind a card resembling a credit card as assurance before leaving to get money from her room.

The owner said she has not contacted the restaurant since and believes the act was intentional.

Viral post prompts warnings and wider discussion

Comments on the Facebook post included claims from users who said they recognised the woman or had seen similar behaviour elsewhere.

Others urged customers who cannot pay to be upfront instead of leaving under false pretences.

The restaurant has since issued a public warning that all customers are recorded on CCTV and asked the woman to return and settle the bill.

The owner said the business would consider further action if she does not take responsibility and can be identified.

Source: https://www.thephuketnews.com/fed-up-karon-eatery-hits-out-at-foreigners-dine-and-dash-excuses-100052.php