Two customers reportedly left a Litherland restaurant without paying for their meal earlier this month, despite a warning from the owner that they had ordered too much food.
Incident at Aminata Bar & Bistro
The incident took place at Aminata Bar & Bistro on Sefton Street at approximately 5.30pm on Wednesday, June 3. Owner Shane Sesay noted that the guests placed a deliberately large order, requesting as much food as possible. Their extensive selection included items from both the breakfast menu and a large sharing platter.
Mr Sesay cautioned the pair about the size of the meal, suggesting it was too much for them to consume. Despite this warning, the customers insisted on proceeding with the order, resulting in a total bill of £65.20.
Failed Payment and Excuses
Problems began when one customer attempted to settle the bill as their partner stepped outside. The attempt to pay failed when the card reader indicated the customer's card was unauthorised. The guest's reaction to the failed transaction caused a public disturbance, reportedly leading them to cause a scene. Owner Shane Sesay chose to step away to prevent the public confrontation from escalating further.
The pair then offered an excuse for their inability to pay, claiming their mobile phone was dead. They used this excuse to justify leaving the bistro to find a cash machine and a phone charger. The guests were allowed to leave under the guise of finding cash to pay for the meal and a charger for their phone. Neither of the customers, however, returned to the restaurant to pay the outstanding amount.
Owner's Response
Mr Sesay said: "Some people don't like to pay with card and that's fine. I have to assume everyone has good intentions. After five minutes I went out to see if they were around but they were gone. I have to give the benefit of the doubt but now I have nowhere to turn."
Merseyside Police confirmed that enquiries into the allegation of making off without payment are actively ongoing.
