The UK’s one-and-only ‘Karen attraction’ that Brits can’t get enough of
THE restaurant chain where staff are intentionally rude to customers is growing in popularity with Brits – and now has seven locations across the UK.
Karen’s Diner goes against the well-established hospitality saying that the “customer is always right” by offering a bizarre twist.
The dining experience, which first opened in Australia in 2021, lets staff be intentionally rude to punters, with rude waiters swearing at customers and dishing out a public shaming through a speaker system.
The unique dining experience was inspired by the popular internet meme of “being a Karen“.
This meme references people who love to take their anger out on retail staff and people who typically work in customer service establishments.
A statement on the Diner’s website said: “Karen’s is an interactive diner and an absurdly fun experience.
“At Karen’s, you will be greeted and waited upon by rude waiters and forced to play a variety of stupid games.
“You can expect good food, good fun, and a dining experience like you’ve never had before.
“Let us know if it’s your birthday, if your name is Karen and for the love of Karen don’t ask to speak to the manager.”
The experience isn’t for the faint-hearted either.
Shelley Allen, who works in PR and communications for the company, previously explained: “We decided to turn this concept on its head and create a team of ‘Karens’ who work in Karen’s Diner and give it back to the customers instead.”
During her time with Karen’s Diner, Shelley has seen everything from staff spilling drinks to slamming down food and menus, with some customers being asked to get their own food.
But the chain’s rude staff members are all part of its appeal that diners in the UK love.
Since Karen’s Diner opened in the UK, customers have taken to social media to share their delight with the unusual dining experience.
In a review on TripAdvisor, one person wrote: “This is a must when visiting London unless you take offense easily.”
Another person added: “This is a great place to go for something different.
“I laughed from start to finish. It’s not for the light-hearted either, because the staff were very abusive but great.”
A third added: “The worst service ever – in the best possible way.”
Meanwhile, users on TikTok have taken unsuspecting family members to Karen’s Diner for a meal out.
While many were shocked by the terrible service, they came around to the rude staff and dished back some insults of their own.
It’s not just regular punters who’ve been to the rude restaurant either, former Atomic Kitten singer Kerry Katona dined at the chain earlier this year.
She posted about how much she loved her meal on Instagram – but the chain’s official account replied simply: “Don’t come back.”
Even in light of the antics, customers are required to adhere to a set of rules that outlaws any sexist, racist, homophobic, or ableist comments or slurs.
The restaurant chain doesn’t tolerate vandalism or body shaming.
Karen’s Diner has now has seven restaurants dotted across the country, including sites in Barnet, Birmingham, Angel (in London), Manchester, Sheffield, and Brighton.
Classic American staples like burgers, chicken wings, and hotdogs are served at the restaurant.
There’s another unique dining experience in the UK too, where meals are made by the “smallest chef in the world”.
According to the restaurant’s website, Le Petit Chef is “just 6cm tall” and won’t grow any taller.
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Meanwhile, this noodle restaurant in the UK is like actually visiting Tokyo.