Restaurant in Tenerife Denounces 'Simpa': Patrons Flee Without Paying with Two Children

A establishment in La Matanza de Acentejo shared on social media how a couple with minors consumed a large amount and left without settling the bill.

Generic image of an unpaid restaurant bill.
IA

Generic image of an unpaid restaurant bill.

A restaurant in La Matanza de Acentejo, Tenerife, has publicly denounced a non-payment incident, known as a 'simpa', that occurred last Thursday afternoon.

The establishment, La Vespa, located on Tabaiba street, used social media, specifically TikTok, to recount the event. Despite it being close to closing time, the staff decided to serve a couple accompanied by two minors.
According to the affected party's account, the family had a considerable consumption, ordering several starters, main courses, and three desserts. However, when it came time to pay, the customers' bank card was repeatedly declined.
The man, presenting himself as a regular customer despite not being recognized by the staff, promised to return that same afternoon with cash, claiming he had left his phone in the car. The promise turned out to be false, as they were later seen at a bus stop, confirming their intention not to pay.

"It hurts us, it hurts us that they do this to us when we always give our utmost love, especially considering how difficult it is to run a business these days. But well, we never deny a plate of food to anyone. If that were your need, tell me without any problem, and we will do it with pleasure."

a restaurant spokesperson
The restaurant's spokesperson expressed indignation at the abuse of trust but also conveyed a message of humanity, offering help to those genuinely in need. The video concludes with a warning to the hospitality industry in the northern area of Tenerife, detailing the modus operandi to prevent other establishments from falling into the same trap.