Turkish chef Nusret Gokce, popularly known as Salt Bae, set social media ablaze last week after sharing a jaw-dropping receipt from his Dubai restaurant.
The controversial post showcased a staggering bill amounting to $108,500 for a single meal, leaving netizens in disbelief.
The detailed invoice from Nusr-Et Steakhouse outlined a lavish culinary experience, featuring a myriad of dishes ranging from beef carpaccio to golden steak, accompanied by French fries, golden baklava, a fruit platter, and Turkish coffee.
The extravagance extended to the drinks order, which included four porn star martinis ($130), two bottles of Chateau Petrus 2009 ($53,900), one bottle of Petrus 2011 ($17,700), and five double glasses of the exclusive Louis XIII cognac neat ($7,500).
Adding a substantial sum for tips, the diners capped off their extravagant experience with a final payment of $24,500. The entire amount mentioned in the receipt was in UAE currency – AED.
In a nonchalant caption accompanying the controversial post, Salt Bae remarked, “Money comes, money goes,” over the weekend, further fueling the already fervent debate on social media.
As the image of the exorbitant bill went viral, social media platforms were flooded with furious comments, with many users criticizing Salt Bae and his restaurant as “the most overrated and overpriced” establishment.
One user expressed disdain, stating, “Shameful as millions of people suffer from hunger,” while another commented on the questionable use of wealth, saying, “Imagine being this wealthy and blowing it on food that isn’t worth it.”
A recurring sentiment emerged, with a third user echoing, “Imagine being this wealthy and blowing it on food that isn’t worth it…”
The controversy took a more serious turn when a fourth user highlighted the potential global impact, asserting, “That would have fed at least 100,000 children in hunger around the world! How embarrassing!”
The backlash against Salt Bae and his extravagant display of wealth has ignited discussions about the responsibility of public figures and celebrities in the context of global issues such as hunger and poverty.
Critics argue that such ostentatious spending in the midst of widespread economic disparities is not only insensitive but also contributes to a culture of excess.
It is not the first time Salt Bae has faced criticism for the prices at his restaurants.
The latest incident, however, has brought the debate to the forefront, prompting discussions on the ethics of conspicuous consumption, particularly in an era marked by increasing awareness of social and economic inequalities.
The controversy surrounding the $108,500 meal has also raised questions about the role of influencers and celebrities in shaping societal norms.
While some defend Salt Bae’s right to enjoy the fruits of his success, others argue that public figures should be more mindful of the messages they convey, especially in a world grappling with pressing issues like hunger and poverty.
As the social media storm continues, it remains to be seen whether this incident will lead to a broader conversation about the responsibility of those in the public eye and the role of wealth in the face of global challenges.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members