An Evanston, Illinois, restaurant owner has issued a public apology following a heated exchange with a customer who did not leave a tip. The incident was captured on video and widely shared online.

Kenny Chou, proprietor of the ramen eatery Table to Stix, acknowledged that he lost his temper when he confronted a regular customer outside the establishment. Chou stated that he intended to inform the patron not to return after repeatedly failing to tip. However, the situation escalated into a verbal altercation that lasted several minutes. 

In the video, the customer asserts, "I paid for my food. I handed you $20. You cannot charge more than what you paid, so what are you talking about?"

Reflecting on the incident, Chou expressed remorse: "Bringing shame to my wife as a husband, as an owner. At the same time to my mom and dad."

The footage sparked an online debate about tipping practices. It led to accusations of racial bias against the restaurant—messages labeling Table to Stix as anti-Black appeared on the sidewalk outside the business. In response to the backlash, the restaurant ceased taking calls, deactivated its social media accounts, and temporarily suspended its Yelp page to prevent further reviews.

When questioned online about his decision not to tip, the customer responded, "Oh, I just didn't want to."

Chou revealed that the customer's brother later visited the restaurant, describing their conversation as productive. Chou offered a personal apology, a handwritten note, and the customer's favorite meal to be delivered to him.

"My door is open for you, man. You know, come on by anytime," Chou said.

Chou expressed concern that the incident could negatively impact neighboring businesses, noting that protests were planned outside his restaurant for the upcoming Saturday.