A restaurant owner in Penarth, south Wales, has expressed fury after a couple allegedly walked out without paying their £115 bill following a meal of Dover sole and calamari. The incident occurred at El Puerto, located at the Old Custom House, on June 29 at around 8pm.
CCTV captures couple's arrival and departure
The man and woman were caught on CCTV parking their car in the brasserie's private car park before entering the restaurant. They ordered an all-day set menu for £32, a Dover sole meal for £52.10, calamari for £9.50, and eight Coca-Colas for £22, bringing the total to £115.60. After finishing their meal, they left without settling the bill.
Business owner Tanny Martinez said the hospitality industry already faces significant financial challenges, and such incidents worsen the situation. He stated: "This has been hugely disappointing for the entire team. The hospitality industry is already facing an incredibly challenging economic climate, with rising costs and pressures across the sector, without having to deal with situations like this."
Impact on staff morale and business
Martinez emphasized that the financial loss is not the only concern. "The impact goes beyond the financial loss. Situations like this can also have a real effect on the team's morale and wellbeing, especially when so much care and effort goes into every service," he added. The restaurant, which has been part of the Penarth community for over two decades, posted on Facebook urging the couple to return and resolve the matter directly.
A marketing team spokesperson alleged that the pair made a swift exit when staff were not looking. "It was a normal dining experience and they waited until waiting staff in that area's backs were turned and then once they could see there was nobody watching, they left quickly. A manager realised quite quickly what had happened and so ran out into the car park to try and speak to them, but they had already left unfortunately by that point."
Police investigation launched
The restaurant reported the incident to South Wales Police. A spokeswoman for the force confirmed: "South Wales Police received a report of theft from The Custom House, Penarth, on June 29. Anyone with information to contact South Wales Police quoting 2600206060." The case remains unresolved as of Friday, with the restaurant releasing the customers' food receipt to aid the investigation.
