Cake-cutting fee adds extra layer to the bill

By Dionne Meehan

LOCALS were left outraged this week after a post on Letterkenny Babies Facebook page revealed that some businesses in the town have begun charging a ‘cake-cutting fee’ at events.

The post read: “We have a birthday party booked at the weekend but the venue has emailed to say there is a cake-cutting charge of €3 per person. €50 to cut the cake we are bringing in. Is this the case for everywhere these days?”

Commenters on the post were appalled. One person described the charge as “scandalous”.

Someone else argued that functions are already costly without adding this extra charge.

In light of this, the Donegal News turned to its own followers to gather their opinions.

“Instead of people helping each other in a cost of living crisis, we only see greed,” a follower remarked.

“It would definitely stop me going to a restaurant that charges the fee,” one local said.

“There are plenty of other places out there.”

“Very simple, do not give these people the business,” another commented.

Someone else said the charge was “ridiculous” and suggested bringing your own knife to the function.

However, one contributor expressed understanding for the introduction of the charge.

“I can see why they are introducing this as you most likely will not order a dessert due to the cake. You are therefore bringing in your own desserts and they’re doing the dishes!”

But, they agreed that a fee of €3 per person was too pricey.

Instead, they suggested that businesses charge a flat rate.

“Maybe a flat rate like €10 for parties under ten, €20 parties over 20,” the commenter suggested.

“It’s hard times for restaurants as well at the moment.”

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