Times are tough, but that doesn't mean it's OK to skip out (or in this case, jump out) on paying for your tab at a local spot. And one Weatherford restaurant, Fins Patio Bar & Grill, had the perfect response when a scammy duo decided to ditch the check on a meal over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
A July 5 post on Fins' Facebook page lays out how it went down: First, a security camera photo catches the couple relaxing after they've finished their fried catfish and loaded nachos, sipping on one of those extra-big fishbowl drinks. A second photo shows the man seated alone, and a third photo presents the couple's getaway car, a black Chevy SUV.
Fins' witty caption: "A delinquent & a catfish walk into a bar…"
Footage from a security camera then shows the SUV pull up in the parking lot outside the restaurant — presumably driven by the woman — who waits while the man literally jumps over the patio fence, then dashes into the passenger seat before they make their slimy getaway.
Fins could have responded in any number of ways — but chose humor.
"Enjoy the free meal," their post said. "Since you have no time to pay for it, can you at least make time to leave us a review on the Fishbowl, Catfish & Loaded Nachos! You know they were good as f boi [sic]! Next time at least tip the waitress before you jump bail."
Security camera footage shows the customer jumping over Fins' railing to run to the black Chevy SUV at the top of the screen.@haste.waste.abuse / TikTok
A mere 24 hours later, Fins posted a follow-up Reel after the local internet community pulled together to find the deadbeat check-skipping diners.
The reel shows the black Chevy parked in what looks like an apartment or motel parking lot — with a gift card tucked into the window for $55 — exactly the amount of the check that the duo skipped out on paying, along with a copy of their itemized bill. Written on top by Fins staff are the words "We love to help the needy."
FINS Patio Bar & Grill on Reelswww.facebook.com
In their reel, Fins explains what happened: "Found our beloved customers and gave them a $55 gift card so they can afford dinner and tip next time out on the town! Cheers!"
The viral video has amassed over 49,000 views on social media, and followers of the weekend drama have been offering their share of advice and feedback.
"I think you should have charged their meal to that $55 gift card and then gave it to them (with a zero balance). Then they would have looked the fools they are when they went to pay for their next meal with it," one commenter wrote.
Fins responded to the situation with a new level of petty.Fins Patio Bar & Grill / Facebook
Other commenters were amazed at the level of investigation that went into finding the dine-and-dashers.
"This is the best I have seen in quite some time. If I ever need an investigation, I am calling Fins," a separate commenter wrote.
Let's hope they learned their lesson. Don't mess with Fins.
