Restaurant's 'iconic' response after New York Times writer moans about meal cost

22 September 2023 , 12:16

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He paid $78 (£63) for a meal at Newark Airport (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

A restaurant has been praised for defending itself against a New York Times columnist who complained about its prices. Columnist David Brooks, a moderate conservative political and cultural commentator, paid $78 (£63) for a meal at Newark Airport before sharing his thoughts on the price online.

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, he wrote: "This meal just cost me $78 at Newark Airport. This is why Americans think the economy is terrible." However, the restaurant, 1911 Smoke House Barbeque, pushed back, claiming that's what happens when you order "some serious drinks".

They said on Facebook: "Looks like someone was knocking back some serious drinks - Bar tab was almost 80 per cent and he's complaining about the cost of his meal. Keep drinking buddy - we get paid off everything." Their response has received more than 1,400 positive reactions, about 170 comments and around 150 shares in under 24 hours, with many users claiming it's "iconic" and "winning the internet".

One user said: "You literally came with the receipts!" Another user added: "Life can’t be bad if you would even consider sitting down to a meal at an airport restaurant. The sense of entitlement and the things people take for granted is astounding. So many of us make do with a snack from the newsstand or even bring our own."

A third user said: "You have my business next time I come through. Thanks for the laugh." One more user added: "Now I need to fly to Newark so I can try your burger!" Speaking to the New York Post, restaurant owner Maurice Hallett said they'll probably name a special meal after David. He said: "It’ll be a cheeseburger and a double whiskey."

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Mr Hallett believes he ordered two doubles of whiskey costing around $29 - and explained how eating at an airport is usually more expensive due to a partnership with a food travel company. A second Facebook post from the restaurant reads: "Thanks Dave Brooks for the free publicity- next time use our hashing #youcantbeatourmeat or prices."

Paige Freshwater