A San Francisco restaurant is facing serious allegations of deceptive billing practices that could shake up the local dining scene. On February 20, 2025, Alexander Xue filed a complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, against iCulinaire LLC, alleging the restaurant unlawfully padded customer bills with hidden fees.
The case revolves around an incident on February 15, 2025, when Xue dined at "3rd Cousin," a restaurant operated by iCulinaire LLC located at 919 Cortland Ave, San Francisco. According to the complaint, Xue was informed that a special Valentine's Day prix fixe menu would cost $159 per person. However, upon receiving his bill after dinner, he discovered additional charges totaling $119.07 had been added without his consent or prior knowledge. These included an "Included Gratuity" fee of $81.20 and a "SF Mandates" fee of $28.42, both taxed further for an additional $9.45.
Xue argues that these fees were not disclosed on any menu or advertisement and claims they violate several California laws designed to protect consumers from unfair business practices. Specifically, he cites violations of the Unfair Competition Law (Business and Professions Code §§ 17200 et seq.), False Advertising Law (Business and Professions Code §§ 17500 et seq.), and the Consumer Legal Remedies Act (Civil Code §§ 1750 et seq.). He accuses iCulinaire LLC of engaging in "drip pricing," where businesses display low prices to attract customers but later add unavoidable fees during transactions.
The plaintiff seeks injunctive relief to prevent iCulinaire LLC from continuing these practices and demands refunds for all customers who paid undisclosed fees. Additionally, Xue requests compensation for legal costs and any other relief deemed appropriate by the court.
This case highlights significant issues surrounding transparency in pricing within the hospitality industry. It raises questions about how restaurants disclose mandatory fees and whether current consumer protection laws are sufficient to address such concerns.
The case is being handled under Case Number CGC-25-622554 in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco. The plaintiff is representing himself pro se.