In a compelling legal battle, a plaintiff has taken action against a restaurant for allegedly deceiving customers with hidden fees. On February 18, 2025, Alexander Xue filed a complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, against Goemon LLC. The lawsuit accuses the defendant of secretly adding undisclosed charges to customer bills at their restaurant, Stonemill Matcha.
The case centers around an incident on July 28, 2024, when Xue visited Stonemill Matcha and discovered an unexpected fee labeled "SF Mandates" on his bill. This charge amounted to $1.39 or 3% of his pre-tax subtotal of $46.25. Xue contends that this fee was not disclosed on the menu or during the ordering process, violating California's Consumer Legal Remedies Act (CLRA) and other consumer protection laws.
Xue argues that Goemon LLC engaged in deceptive practices by failing to clearly disclose mandatory surcharges on its menu and advertisements. According to Xue, this practice constitutes "drip pricing," where businesses advertise lower prices but add unavoidable fees later in the transaction. California Senate Bill 478 prohibits such practices unless all fees are prominently displayed.
The complaint outlines three causes of action: violation of the Unfair Competition Law (Business and Professions Code §§ 17200 et seq.), violation of the False Advertising Law (Business and Professions Code §§ 17500 et seq.), and violation of the Consumer Legal Remedies Act (Civil Code §§ 1750 et seq.). Xue claims that these violations have caused harm not only to him but also to other consumers misled by Goemon LLC's pricing tactics.
Xue seeks injunctive relief to prevent Goemon LLC from continuing these alleged unlawful practices. He also demands refunds for all customers who paid hidden fees without proper disclosure. Additionally, Xue requests compensation for legal costs incurred during the lawsuit.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about transparency in pricing within the restaurant industry and raises questions about consumer rights under California law. As it unfolds in courtrooms across San Francisco County, it may set important precedents regarding business ethics and accountability.
The case is identified as Case Number CGC-25-622508. Alexander Xue represents himself as Plaintiff pro se while Sahar Enayati serves as Deputy Clerk at filing time.