A Spanish restaurant has introduced a so-called "vomit fee" as a growing number of customers have been throwing up after overeating at all-you-can-eat establishments. The notice warns that customers who eat excessively and then vomit on the premises may face additional charges.
Overseas online outlet Oddity Central reported Friday on Sushi Toro, an all-you-can-eat restaurant located in Gelves, in Spain's Seville region. The restaurant recently posted a notice in its dining area following a rise in vomiting incidents caused by overeating.
According to the notice, the restaurant reserves the right to charge an additional fee to compensate for damages when a customer vomits as a result of eating too much.
Sushi Toro explained that vomiting incidents have been affecting other diners, service quality, store management and hygiene. The restaurant said it strives to deliver orders on time and maintain cleanliness, adding that cooperation is needed because other customers are being inconvenienced.
The exact amount charged to customers who actually vomit has not been disclosed. According to Oddity Central, the restaurant's buffet prices range from 16.90 euros to 23.90 euros depending on the day and time, equivalent to roughly 27,000 won to 38,000 won.
The measure resembles the practice of some buffets that charge extra for customers who leave food uneaten, but it stands out for targeting the act of vomiting itself.
The appeal of all-you-can-eat restaurants lies in being able to eat as much as one wants for a fixed price. However, when some customers eat beyond their capacity or repeatedly vomit on the premises, it can cause discomfort for other diners. Hygiene management and staff workload also increase.
Sushi Toro's "vomit fee" is closer to a warning aimed at preventing overeating and maintaining store hygiene than at punishing customers. Still, online reactions have been mixed over how far all-you-can-eat restaurants can hold customers accountable.
