Chiang Mai Breakfast World in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a popular brunch spot for travellers in the region – but it has now been slammed after footage of its controversial discount system emerged online
A popular restaurant at a busy tourist location has been slammed for fat shaming after it emerged they give ‘humiliating’ discounts on food to ‘skinny’ customers. Chiang Mai Breakfast World in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a popular brunch spot for travellers in the region and is celebrated for its extensive menu of European breakfast and lunch choices.
It boasts an average rating of 4.5 on TripAdvisor and has become a must visit restaurant. But the famous eatery has now been slammed after footage of its controversial discount system emerged online – and appearing to favour customers of a slimmer build.
In fact the skinnier you are, the more you can save on the bill. The clip, posted on Instagram shows different sized bars out the front of the café with multi-coloured signs above, stating the categories. There are five categories in total, including, 20 per cent, 15 per cent, 10 per cent, 5 per cent, and “Full price, sorry.”
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The clip appears to show an older man attempting to squeeze his body to fit through the the 15 per cent discount space. But despite not being able to fit, he has a go at attempting the 10 per cent gap.
A voice in the clip says “What if he gets stuck?”, as he only manages to squeeze his head through the tiny space.
The man finally manages to squeeze through the 5 per cent gap, admitting, “It’s better than nothing.” In a separate clip, another diner can be seen passing through the 15 per cent gap with ease, and even does it twice.
The video, which amassed over 55,000 likes, has left users divided – with some labelling it as “discrimination” and slamming the skinny body rule as prejudiced. One person said “I wouldn’t eat there. That’s really discriminating”, while another said “Not dehumanising myself for that. Wouldn’t eat there.”
However, other users were rather impressed with the unique system, with person saying “All places should have this. An up-close photo of the controversial bars shows a note written in small letters next to the “full price” section.
“How much discount do you get?” it says. “Our ‘fully electronic and computer controlled’ discount system is for visitors over 18 years of age only,” it adds.
Also noticeable is an extra section stating “Food for free.” However, it appears that the cafe owners have since removed this option.
Parts of South-East Asia, including Thailand, are well-known for their strict beauty ideals. With one of the lowest obesity rates in the world, it comes as no surprise that these unusual ‘policies’ are accepted.
