by Flagstaff, AZ – An Arizona man’s dinner plans took an unexpected turn when he was asked to leave a popular steakhouse for refusing to discard his energy drink. The incident quickly went viral, sparking a heated debate online. However, when the man sought support on TikTok, the majority of internet users sided with the restaurant.
The Confrontation at Black Bart’s
The incident occurred at Black Bart’s Steakhouse, a well-known establishment in Flagstaff. A TikTok video shows the man standing at the host stand holding a can of Ghost Energy while engaged in a heated argument with the restaurant manager.
The manager, aware of being recorded, sarcastically remarked, “I look forward to seeing this on… Where’s it going to be? Instagram or TikTok?”
When the customer questioned the refusal of service, the manager pointed out the steakhouse’s no-outside-food-or-drink policy, which is prominently posted at the entrance. He explained that allowing outside beverages could potentially violate health regulations and jeopardize the restaurant’s liquor license.
Watch the original TikTok video here.
Customer’s Response
Outside the restaurant, the man recorded a follow-up video expressing his frustration. He insisted he only wanted to enjoy his meal and did not anticipate any problems with bringing an energy drink inside.
He described the manager as being “immediately super irate” and labeled the situation as “insane” and “arrogant.” While claiming he offered to throw the drink away, he criticized the staff’s manner and encouraged viewers to share the video to promote better customer treatment.
Internet Reaction and Public Opinion
Contrary to the man’s expectations, TikTok users overwhelmingly supported Black Bart’s and its policies:
- “Who brings a drink into a restaurant?” one user questioned.
- Another commented, “Rules are rules!! I support Black Bart’s!!!”
- Additional voices praised the management: “The manager did a great job. Kudos!” and “Great job by the restaurant.”
Many pointed out that no-outside-food-and-drink policies are a standard practice in restaurants across the country. One user explained, “That’s standard everywhere, dude. Like, why would you walk into a restaurant with your own drink?!”
Others emphasized the importance of compliance: “It’s a health code violation & they could lose their liquor license. This isn’t a new thing.”
The most-liked comment succinctly summarized public sentiment: “We are on the restaurant’s side.”
Why the No-Outside-Drink Rule Matters
Restaurants enforce such policies for several crucial reasons:
- Protecting health codes and ensuring food safety standards are maintained.
- Minimizing liability risks if outside food or beverages cause illness to patrons.
- Preserving liquor licenses, which can be at risk if unverified beverages are consumed on site.
In this case, supporters highlighted that Black Bart’s was simply upholding a standard policy that safeguards both the business and its customers.
For more details on this viral standoff and community reactions, visit FatCityFeed.com.
Would you have sided with the diner or the restaurant in this standoff? Share your take in the comments below!
