A TikTok user from Cuba, known as @velazquezsilva, shared her unsettling experience at Lo D' Alex, the Miami restaurant owned by Alexander Delgado of the popular music group Gente de Zona. In her "story time" video, she praised the establishment for its excellent service, delicious food, and pleasant atmosphere. However, an encounter in the restroom after her meal left her troubled.
According to her account, upon entering the restroom, she discovered a basket filled with money and an employee who handed her a towel and soap. When she mentioned she didn’t have cash for a tip, the employee responded that they "do not receive a salary" at the restaurant and rely solely on tips. She was also advised to "cultivate the habit of carrying cash."
The Cuban woman expressed her frustration, emphasizing that tips are meant to be voluntary and should never be demanded. Although she offered to send money digitally, the worker insisted on cash, making her feel uneasy and tarnishing the otherwise enjoyable dining experience. "It felt like being forced to give alms," she remarked in her video. "I felt like I was back in Cuba. I felt bad. Tipping is a voluntary act, not something to be demanded."
Despite the employee's persistence, she chose not to escalate the situation to avoid ruining her Valentine's Day dinner. "I'm usually quick to react and don't stay silent about anything. But it was Valentine's dinner, and it wasn't worth getting stressed over this after having such a good time," she explained.
The video quickly went viral, sparking a wave of reactions on the platform. Some users agreed that demanding tips is unacceptable and criticized the employee's behavior as inappropriate. "That's a Cuban thing. If she's there, they should pay her a salary," commented one user.
Others shared similar encounters, echoing her sentiments. "I didn’t give her a chance to say anything. I dried my hands, she didn't offer me anything. She was on the phone, I threw the paper away, and left. Ignoring is the best," one user commented. Another added, "Oh dear, I was equally shocked. I talked to her for the same reason and got the same response. I went back to the table to ask my husband, but it was quite jarring."
Some users defended the need for the restaurant to provide a salary to its staff, suggesting that Alexander Delgado might be unaware of the situation. "I'm sure Alexander knows nothing about this," wrote a user. Others called for labor authorities to investigate: "In the U.S., every worker is entitled to at least the minimum wage."
As of now, neither Alexander Delgado nor the management of Lo D' Alex has commented on the controversy.
Key Questions About Tipping and Employment Practices
Is it legal for restaurants in the U.S. to require employees to work only for tips?
In the United States, it is generally required that all employees receive at least the federal minimum wage, although tips can be used to fulfill part of this requirement. However, employees should not rely solely on tips as their only source of income.
What actions can customers take if they feel pressured to tip?
Customers can choose to report the incident to the restaurant management or contact local labor authorities to ensure fair labor practices are being followed.