Evanston Ramen Shop Owner Faces Backlash Over Tipping Dispute

EVANSTON, Ill. — A confrontation last weekend between the owner of downtown ramen shop Table to Stix and a customer over tipping has garnered significant attention on social media, leading to widespread criticism.

On Saturday, April 19, a customer paid for a $19.89 meal with a $20 bill, triggering a dispute. Kenny Chou, the owner, followed the customer out of the restaurant on Davis Street, where the two exchanged heated remarks. In a video that went viral, Chou can be heard demanding that the customer tip or not return, while the customer insisted he had paid what he owed.

The situation escalated as Chou expressed visible frustration. According to the Evanston Police Department (EPD), the customer later filed a report for harassment, and police are currently investigating the matter.

Chou recounted that before the recorded confrontation, he asked the customer why he did not leave a tip. The customer allegedly suggested that if the restaurant was struggling, Chou should raise prices, to which Chou asked what a fair price would be. The customer suggested $25, after which he left the restaurant.

Chou, who has owned the business with his wife for the past decade, admitted to losing his temper but emphasized that he was under stress, especially amid recent economic challenges. He stated, “I got frustrated, but I am not making excuses for my actions.”

Following the incident, a group of local leaders and activists organized a protest scheduled for Saturday to address what they claim is racially motivated behavior. Community activist Meleika Gardner emphasized the importance of accountability, urging Chou to reach out to the customer and apologize publicly.

The incident prompted discussions at an Equity and Empowerment Commission meeting where commissioners sought answers on how to address complaints related to harassment in local restaurants. One commissioner noted that this is not an isolated incident, pointing out previous concerns raised by Black residents about similar experiences.

Chou has since taken steps to make amends. He offered the customer’s brother a complimentary meal and conveyed his desire to learn from this experience. However, the backlash has led the restaurant to deactivate its social media accounts and stop accepting phone orders.

On Monday, messages appeared in the form of chalk writings outside the restaurant, highlighting community discontent. Activist Darlene Cannon articulated the feelings of many residents, stating that the incident has put Black community members on edge.

Meanwhile, as community members gather for protests, those involved are calling for change in how tipping culture is perceived and the rights of service workers. As the situation develops, Chou hopes to repair relations, although the path to healing may be challenging.