Have you ever dined and dashed before?
Sometimes, it is just an honest mistake. However, some people knowingly do this...
According to an article in The Guardian, "One in 20 people have walked out of a restaurant without paying for their meal."
While the stats might vary here in South Africa, the behaviour itself is unfortunately all too familiar.
Walking out of a restaurant or eatery without paying – often referred to as "dining and dashing" – is a crime and can be reported to the authorities. Still, this illegal practice persists in many communities across the country.
Sometimes, it’s not about affordability at all. For some, it’s the supposed thrill of getting away with something illegal. Other times, it’s genuine forgetfulness.
A popular Durban eatery in Hillary, Malvern – Uncle Craig's Kitchen – recently posted a video on social media that caught the attention of many.
In the clip, owner Craig addresses two customers who took their food and left without paying.
Rather than lashing out, Craig chose a calm and respectful approach, which earned him praise across social media for handling the situation with grace and professionalism.
Watch the video from TikTok.
@unclecraig8 Please do the right thing. #craigschipper #uckcatering #ucktrotters #amazingfood #kidfriendly #foodies #launch #indianfood #uckbunnies #unclecraigskitchen #uckiscracking #uckbraai ♬ original sound - Uncle Craig's Kitchen
His video reached a wide audience in the community, and in a follow-up clip, Craig shared that one of the two customers had returned to settle their bill.
Unfortunately, the second customer has yet to come forward or make contact.
While it might not seem like a big deal to some, small businesses invest significant time, effort, and money into preparing each meal, and when someone walks out without paying, the impact can be felt across the entire operation.
Craig made a heartfelt appeal, urging the remaining customer to come forward and settle the debt.
He acknowledged that it may have been an honest mistake but warned that if there’s no response, he may have no choice but to share the security footage and reveal the person’s identity.
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Image courtesy of iStock