Dealing with difficult customers is something many restaurant workers know all too well. But one man recalled an incident where enforcing dining rules allegedly led to a customer spitting at him.
When he lost his temper and responded, he said he ended up receiving a warning letter from his employer.
Family wanted to combine three tables
Sharing his experience on Threads, the man said the incident happened several years ago during the Movement Control Order (MCO), when dining in had been allowed again with restrictions.
According to his account, tables had to be spaced apart, and only two people were allowed at each table.
A family of six then arrived at the restaurant and wanted to push three tables together.
He explained that this was not allowed, adding that the authorities regularly patrolled the area and could issue fines if the restaurant failed to follow the rules.
Customer allegedly spat at him
However, one family member allegedly became upset and insisted that they did not mind if the entire family contracted Covid.
The worker maintained that he could not allow them to combine the tables.
According to him, the customer continued complaining before spitting at him.
What began as an explanation about seating arrangements had turned into an encounter that pushed him past his limit.
Received a warning letter after losing his temper
The man admitted that he lost his patience and swore at the family following the alleged incident.
They subsequently lodged a complaint, and he said his employer issued him a warning letter for disrespecting customers.
Reflecting on what happened, he acknowledged that patience was important but said he simply could not remain calm at that moment.
Other workers share their experiences
Other Threads users also shared their frustrations over being treated rudely by customers.
One said they particularly disliked it when customers threw money down despite a worker already holding out their hand to receive it.
Another recalled telling a customer that bringing money was not enough and that they should bring their manners too.
Others expressed frustration over how difficult it could be to encounter customers who treated service workers with basic respect.
