Food Critic Sparks Outrage Over Restaurant Photography Etiquette

With the increasing trend of content creation in Lagos State’s dining scene, Nigerian self-identified food critic Opeyemi Famakin has criticized female content creators for excessively photographing in restaurants. 

In a video shared on his social media account, the controversial food critic challenged the widely held belief that photography boosts sales. He argued that turning restaurants into photography hotspots diminishes the fine-dining experience and alienates the intended clientele.

The ideal patrons for fine dining prefer not to be in crowded spaces filled with well-dressed individuals who lack sophistication. Professional critics often emphasize that an elegant dining atmosphere should remain undisturbed, and excessive photography can disrupt this experience. When patrons see constant photo-taking, they may hesitate to return

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This behavior harms the restaurant’s reputation, resulting in lost revenue. Famakin recognized that capturing images in dining establishments isn’t fundamentally wrong but highlighted the need for proper conduct. Here is how people reacted:

“You don lie ,for abroad those fancy restaurants go help you take pictures self and ask you to tag dia ig handle, no be everything you talk be true sha”

“But this actually look razz though when it’s not a photo shoot day…”

“While some social media users agreed with Famakin’s sentiment on the issue, many others slammed him for calling female restaurant-goers out.”

“Take a picture outside of the restaurant or on your sit! Standing in the middle of a restaurant is not right”

“If you like, call it a gender war but someone needs to call out these people who go to restaurants and take pictures. Taking pictures is not bad. As a food critic when I go to restaurants I usually ask for the manager and introduce myself and then ask if I can make videos. I only take pictures on my table but when you go around the restaurant and other people show in our pictures, that’s where there’s an issue.”

“As long they buy food and drinks, I don’t see a problem here”

“Lagos and Abuja babes, you are not doing anybody any stupid favours by taking pictures in their restaurants and posting. Dead that idea. The real target audience only go there to enjoy their experience and take pictures on their table. You people need to be called out, I don’t care.”