Restaurant Faces Backlash Over ‘Offensive’ Signs on Tables

Diners at Corralito Steak House in El Paso, Texas, were taken aback when they arrived expecting a hearty meal, only to be greeted by signage that many found offensive and disparaging.

As the restaurant industry grapples with the lingering effects of the pandemic, Corralito Steak House’s signage reflected their frustration with staffing challenges. Yet, their message seemed to ignore the broader context of the pandemic’s impact on businesses nationwide. Since the economic downturn under President Trump in 2020, many American businesses have faced severe staffing shortages, exacerbated by the global health crisis.

The controversial sign read: “Sadly, due to government handouts, no one wants to work anymore. Therefore, we are short-staffed. Please be patient with the staff that did choose to come to work today, and remember to tip your server. They chose to show up to serve you.” This message not only criticized government support but also overlooked the assistance provided through the Paycheck Protection Program, which gave businesses like Corralito Steak House substantial funds to retain employees.

The sign quickly went viral on social media, prompting a flood of criticism. Reporters from Texas’s KTSM 9 News reached out to the steak house for comment, but the restaurant has yet to respond, hoping the controversy will fade away. Adding to the criticism, Corralito Steak House had received $1,000,000 in Paycheck Protection Program funds.

Veronica Frescas, who first noticed the sign, shared a photo on social media to highlight what she saw as hypocrisy. “I understand a lot of us are frustrated, but there could’ve been a better way to express it,” Frescas said. “We’re all in this together, and that message didn’t seem very El Paso strong.”

The backlash included comments accusing the restaurant of accepting government aid while criticizing others who benefit from similar support. Some suggested the restaurant should focus on paying a fair wage instead of relying on tips for employee compensation.

Leo Duran of the Texas Restaurant Association noted the importance of competitive wages in the restaurant industry. “To survive, you’ve got to compete, and wages are really the baseline of what employees are interested in,” Duran said. “Let’s get back on our feet and move forward.”

The Corralito Steak House has yet to issue a statement addressing the viral sign. We’ll update this story with any new developments. In the meantime, share your thoughts on the sign and the restaurant’s response in the comments below.