A couple’s visit to a restaurant in Bakersfield, California, took an unexpected turn when they decided to livestream their dining experience. The manager informed them that recording was not permitted, but they refused to turn off the camera. As a result, they were asked to leave, and the man accused the manager of being rude. Although some viewers supported the couple, most criticized their behavior, noting that the restaurant is private property and has the right to enforce its own rules.
The interaction was shared on TikTok by Ivan Escobar, a content creator known for posting viral clips in which he engages with police officers, business employees, and others, often in a “trolling” style. The first part of the video showed the California couple reviewing the menu at a Red Robin restaurant. Moments later, a woman who appeared to be the manager approached their table and told Ivan he needed to turn off his cellphone. The device was sitting on the table and appeared to be recording them while they dined. Ivan refused to comply.
“That’s my phone. Why would I turn it off?” he asked. The manager repeatedly said, “Would you please turn it off?” Ivan replied, “No.” The manager then walked away from the table, saying, “Okay.” Meanwhile, Ivan and someone who appeared to be his girlfriend mocked the manager, imitating her and describing her as “rude” in the clip’s caption and description.
In a follow-up clip, the manager returned to the table and explained why she had asked them to stop recording. She said, “I already asked you to turn off your phone. And we’re not allowed to record in here. Like, not even us employees, ’cause it’s really abrasive to the other customers.”
Ivan pointed directly at the camera and insisted he was not recording. However, the manager told the couple that the restaurant was refusing them service and that security would escort them out. “Okay, that’s fine. You could have come in nicely, but you came rude. I don’t know what’s your attitude,” Ivan said while taking a sip of his drink. Then the California couple eventually stood up and left the Red Robin. The manager told them they were banned from returning to the restaurant, but Ivan interrupted her, saying, “Yada, yada, yada.”
Internet Had Mixed Reactions as to Whether the Streamer or the Manager Was Right
The video sparked mixed reactions online, with some viewers criticizing the restaurant and the manager’s handling of the situation.
“You are allowed to record in public.”
“I don’t get it tho, you’re not recording others. Everyone records these days.”
However, many users argued that the couple was in the wrong, pointing out that the restaurant is private property and has the right to enforce a no-recording policy on its premises.
“It’s a private place. Need to follow the rules.”
“She wasn’t rude at all; you are with your camera recording.”
The debate continued in the comments and does not appear likely to end anytime soon. One thing seems certain: the couple will not be returning to Red Robin, even if they wanted to.
