Teppanyaki Stall Owner Appeals for Compassion Amid Cashier’s Challenges
SINGAPORE: A Teppanyaki hawker stall owner has publicly apologised after diners shared unsatisfactory experiences involving a cashier at his stall, Teppan-Man. The heartfelt apology, posted on Facebook by the stall’s owner, “Chef Chris,” has drawn praise for its sincerity and thoughtful approach.
In the post, Chef Chris acknowledged reviews on Google detailing “difficult experiences” with a cashier. Some customers expressed dissatisfaction, with a few even stating they would not return. Addressing the matter openly, he wrote, “I want to respond with empathy,” adding that the staff member in question would soon be leaving the business.
Chef Chris explained that while working closely with someone, it’s not always evident how their emotional intelligence or cognitive abilities might affect interactions. He shared that the cashier faced significant health issues, and he felt a moral responsibility to support the employee, including covering surgical bills at Alexandra Hospital.
“I hope we can approach this with kindness, forgiving any imperfections,” he wrote, urging compassion during a challenging period.
Taking accountability, Chef Chris admitted that his decision to retain the staff member longer than advisable had likely caused frustration for customers. He apologised for prioritising compassion over immediate corrective action, while balancing responsibility.
Despite the recent complaints, Teppan-Man generally enjoys positive reviews online, with many praising its quality dishes and value. However, one dissatisfied customer recently described a “very rude service guy,” expressing disappointment after the staff refused to accept a CDC voucher for payment.
Chef Chris’ post has resonated with many, who commended his empathetic handling of the situation. One commenter wrote, “A well-crafted apology. It’s tough finding workers in F&B, and it’s clear he values and rewards his employees for good service. Kudos!”
