Is Gravy a Right in Restaurants? Kerala Consumer Court Decides
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Synopsis
In a surprising ruling, a Kerala consumer court has declared that restaurants are not obligated to provide free gravy to customers. This decision followed a legal dispute involving a diner and a local eatery. Discover how this verdict impacts dining experiences in Kochi and the implications for restaurant owners.
Key Takeaways
- The Kerala consumer court ruled that gravy is not a right in restaurants.
- This decision highlights the balance between consumer expectations and restaurant sustainability.
- Restaurants can charge for additional items like gravy.
- Legal disputes can arise from misunderstandings about service norms.
- Consumer awareness about restaurant policies is essential.
Kochi, May 22 (NationPress) A restaurant proprietor in Kerala's Kochi breathed a sigh of relief when a local consumer court determined that gravy does not have to be provided free of charge to patrons.
The legal dispute began when an individual ordered parotta and beef—a beloved dish in the state, commonly found in many eateries—at a local restaurant.
Since parotta, made from maida, is flaky, many diners prefer to pair it with gravy to enhance its texture and flavor.
In numerous establishments, restaurants and hotels typically offer gravy separately when the ordered beef dish is dry.
Some places prepare gravy using an onion base, while others serve the beef dish as a curry.
The owner of the ‘Persian Table’ restaurant recounted the series of events that triggered the prolonged legal struggle, stating that initially, the customer who ordered parotta and beef did not request gravy.
“Later, he indicated that he wanted gravy as well. We informed him that we typically do not provide it unless the order specifically includes beef with gravy. This led to a disagreement, and he left unsatisfied,” the owner explained.
“We later learned that he had filed a complaint with local authorities, prompting an inspection of our establishment. With no resolution, he subsequently submitted a petition to the consumer court,” the owner added.
“Now that the verdict has been delivered, we are pleased that the court recognized our rationale for not offering free gravy. We face substantial monthly salary expenses, and providing gravy free of charge would not be financially sustainable,” expressed the restaurant owner, conveying his satisfaction with the court's decision.
With this ruling, gravy can no longer be considered a right for customers visiting hotels and restaurants.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the balance between consumer rights and the operational sustainability of restaurants. This ruling underscores the need for clarity in service expectations while advocating for fair practices within the hospitality industry.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Can restaurants charge for gravy?
Yes, according to the recent ruling by the Kerala consumer court, restaurants are not obligated to provide gravy for free and can charge customers for it.
What triggered the legal dispute?
The legal dispute began when a customer ordered parotta and beef but later requested gravy, which the restaurant owner stated was typically not provided unless specifically ordered.
What was the court's reasoning?
The court recognized the restaurant's financial constraints and their argument that providing free gravy would not be a viable business practice.
