Controversial Service Discontinued: Japanese Restaurant Ends Practice of Waitresses Slapping Customers for Payment

A Japanese eatery in Nagoya called Shachihoko-ya gained attention for its unusual service where customers would willingly get slapped before their meals were served. The kimono-clad waitresses would repeatedly slap the willing patrons on their faces, charging them 300 Japanese Yen (Rs 170) for the service. If customers wanted a specific staff member to slap them, an additional 500 yen (Rs 283) surcharge was applied. The service became popular among both Japanese locals and foreign tourists, with many expressing gratitude for the brutal treatment. However, after videos of the practice went viral, the restaurant announced on social media that they no longer offer slaps and cannot accommodate visitors seeking such treatment.

Initially started in 2012, the controversial service helped revive the restaurant’s business, attracting a growing number of customers interested in trying the unique experience. At first, only one female staff member provided the slaps, but as demand increased, the management hired more girls willing to dish out the slaps.

It remains unclear whether the slap service has been permanently discontinued or if it will make a comeback in the future.

In the meantime, another interesting restaurant in Japan called the “Restaurant of Mistaken Orders” follows a different concept. Here, it is the norm for customers to receive something they didn’t order, rather than a mistake from the waitstaff. The restaurant aims to challenge people’s perceptions about aging and dementia by solely employing waiters who suffer from dementia. Diners are encouraged to interact with these waiters and confront their preconceived notions about the condition. The waiters may eat with the customers, unexpectedly present orders, or even forget what was ordered. The project aims to create a warm and humorous atmosphere, embracing the occasional mix-up in orders.

Overall, these unique dining experiences in Japan offer a glimpse into the country’s diverse culinary culture and unconventional approaches to customer service.