View Full Version : Adios Farmshed
Michael 61
08-27-2022, 06:37 PM
Had dinner tonight at Farmshed in Spanish Springs - was told by waiter that tonight is their final night - restaurant is closing, to be replaced by a steak house.
starflyte1
08-27-2022, 06:54 PM
I used to go there often until they raised the price of their burger and charged, maybe $6 for a side of Grandmas potatoes, not fries.
They did have the best burgers, but just got out of my price range for a burger.
Babubhat
08-27-2022, 07:24 PM
Far too many establishments charging 20 for a burger and fries. If they need that price they should shut their doors
Chi-Town
08-27-2022, 10:00 PM
Never considered Farmshed a burger and fries joint. Food quality was very high and that's worth paying for.
Taltarzac725
08-27-2022, 10:11 PM
Sad to hear.
tophcfa
08-27-2022, 10:21 PM
Wish ToJays would go back to that spot. It was a good place to get a decent breakfast or deli sandwich for lunch. That type of place is seriously lacking in the area.
asianthree
08-28-2022, 02:00 AM
We tried them 3 times, presentation was good, always had to ask that the food came out hot, not warm. Since it was farm to table, some could deal with the limited menu. In the beginning it was to open for breakfast, if they had it might have made a huge difference in their business
Darield
08-29-2022, 06:04 AM
Had dinner tonight at Farmshed in Spanish Springs - was told by waiter that tonight is their final night - restaurant is closing, to be replaced by a steak house.
I will really miss them. They were pricey but the food was really good. I always enjoyed their unique sides including beets and brussels sprouts.Am I the only one that thinks the Villages has an over abundance of steak houses?
richardc1947
08-29-2022, 06:56 AM
Seems to me that part of the problem may be the lack of activity in the Spanish Springs square. We don’t visit there very often since we live much further south nearer Brownwood and Lake Sumter. But I had occasion to go to SS last week to pick up some medical supplies about 10:30 am. I cruised the square and only saw one person seated at a bar at Americanos. No pedestrians, no coffee drinkers in front of Dunkin, and no shoppers walking the sidewalks. If you go to the other squares at that time of day, there will be a lot of activity. Maybe the aging population of that area has fewer residents getting out as much. I know as we grow older, we don’t go out as frequently as we did 12 years ago when we first moved here. Perhaps the proposed apartments in SS will attract a younger demographics and help keep some of the businesses open….. just saying….
Villages Kahuna
08-29-2022, 07:22 AM
With $15 hamburgers that didn’t even include French fries, that was predictable from the beginning. We took one look at their expensive online menu and never visited even once.
Kenswing
08-29-2022, 07:53 AM
With $15 hamburgers that didn’t even include French fries, that was predictable from the beginning. We took one look at their expensive online menu and never visited even once.
Unfortunately this looks to be downward spiral we're currently in. Restaurants are facing higher supply and labor costs. Overhead costs in general are skyrocketing with inflation. Restaurants in turn must raise prices to remain profitable, or at least viable. Consumers have less disposable cash and are not willing or able to afford the new increased pricing. It's a catch 22. I have a feeling we're going to see a lot of places suffer before things turn around.
MrChipster
08-29-2022, 08:13 AM
Far too many establishments charging 20 for a burger and fries. If they need that price they should shut their doors
Welcome to $15.00 minimum “living wage” - thanks progressive thoughts (demands).
Santiagogirl
08-29-2022, 08:28 AM
I've eaten there 2 or 3 times. Was thrilled to see variations of some classic Southern dishes on the menu. Tried hard but unfortunately just couldn't bring myself to like their food. Overpriced as well, and very slow service. Sad they were not able to make a go of it.
krick093
08-29-2022, 08:29 AM
We used to see the owners all the time in the restaurant keeping an eye on things. Staff was attentive and competent. Menu was always somewhat limited and a bit on the high priced side, but quality/taste was very good.
Once we didn't see the owners any more and staff turnover was high, we told ourselves the place wasn't going to last. Too bad. There's plenty of very similar, average restaurants around. Farmshed was at least something different. Hopefully the steak house is a good one (i.e. better than Chop House).
BTW - if you've never been to a restaurant you should refrain from providing comment about it. That's like the blind men describing an elephant...
gatorbill1
08-29-2022, 08:34 AM
Overpriced and not a menu to make one want to go to more than once.
lawgolfer
08-29-2022, 08:41 AM
Had dinner tonight at Farmshed in Spanish Springs - was told by waiter that tonight is their final night - restaurant is closing, to be replaced by a steak house.
Has anyone else noticed there isn't a Chinese restaurant at either of the three town squares. There is one Japanese restaurant at Lake Sumter Landing, which appears to be well patronized.
Perhaps a little diversity in dining at Spanish Springs is in order.
tophcfa
08-29-2022, 08:44 AM
Seems to me that part of the problem may be the lack of activity in the Spanish Springs square.
You’ve got something there, having long time events that were once held in SS getting moved to Brownwood has significantly reduced traffic flow. There used to be a weekly farmers market, large annual crafts fair, BBQ event, seasonal festivities, etc…. Also, SS used to have a nightly happy two hours from 5 - 7. Take stuff away and the result is less traffic flow for the businesses. The only logical conclusion is that the maximum traffic flow is being channeled closer to where new homes are being rapidly built : (
Lottoguy
08-29-2022, 08:46 AM
Way too expensive for most people. Over charging in The Villages is the fastest way to go out of business.
jparsoneau@aol.com
08-29-2022, 08:53 AM
This discussion sounds like the same discussion they have regarding Sawgrass every few days.
Prices are expensive everywhere these days.. And especially inside the bubble. And yes we all know about supply shortages and we all know about lack of employees demanding more money. I would honestly really like to know how much profit there is to be made on a $19 burger and fries is it truly a necessity to stay in business or is it just taking advantage of the times and the customer? But I’ve heard this conversation many times over many different restaurants especially in the south where things are newer and more expensive.
tophcfa
08-29-2022, 08:57 AM
Way too expensive for most people. Over charging in The Villages is the fastest way to go out of business.
If that’s the case, then Sawgrass is doomed from the get go.
Marathon Man
08-29-2022, 09:33 AM
I was surprised when they decided to place it is SS and not Brownwood. Seems to me that a Brownwood location would be more likely to be supported by a higher priced place.
Keefelane66
08-29-2022, 09:34 AM
Welcome to $15.00 minimum “living wage” - thanks progressive thoughts (demands).
Federal Minimum wage is still $7.25 hourly. Currently Fl minimum is $11 on 9/30/22 increases to $12.
Currently I’m out of state in a state with $15 minimum wage prices in Grocery stores, Restaurants are less expensive and restaurant portions are larger than served throughout Villages sad issue is alcohol is more expensive.
A 8oz Hamburger/cheese fries and beverage (soda, ice tea) $14 in upscale establishments.
Haggar
08-29-2022, 09:35 AM
Welcome to $15.00 minimum “living wage” - thanks progressive thoughts (demands).
Minimum wage in Florida goes to $11.00 September 30, 2022 and $1 every year after that until the minimum of $15.00 is reached in 2026
Keefelane66
08-29-2022, 09:45 AM
This discussion sounds like the same discussion they have regarding Sawgrass every few days.
Prices are expensive everywhere these days.. And especially inside the bubble. And yes we all know about supply shortages and we all know about lack of employees demanding more money. I would honestly really like to know how much profit there is to be made on a $19 burger and fries is it truly a necessity to stay in business or is it just taking advantage of the times and the customer? But I’ve heard this conversation many times over many different restaurants especially in the south where things are newer and more expensive.
Very good question you’ll be surprised between 200% to 500% markup. Of course buying supplies from food distributor similar to SYSCO or Cheney Bros is way less expensive than Publix, Walmart or WD prices.
Holpat39
08-29-2022, 09:56 AM
Went there once. Was not impressed. Person at table with us ordered pork chops that looked very greasy. She claimed how delicious they were. It's a matter of taste. In 20 years of eating in and around The Villages my best experiences were at Cane Garden. Haven't been out to eat for quite a while since husband's illness keeps us home. Hope Cane Garden has not deteriorated over the last few years.
DonnaNi4os
08-29-2022, 10:02 AM
I had the very best burger of my life there when it first opened. I wish I had the chance to go back for another but it sounds like it’s too late. They were pricey but my burger was worth it. I must admit that I’m not surprised to hear that they are closing, but I’m also a bit sad.
PugMom
08-29-2022, 10:17 AM
Seems to me that part of the problem may be the lack of activity in the Spanish Springs square. We don’t visit there very often since we live much further south nearer Brownwood and Lake Sumter. But I had occasion to go to SS last week to pick up some medical supplies about 10:30 am. I cruised the square and only saw one person seated at a bar at Americanos. No pedestrians, no coffee drinkers in front of Dunkin, and no shoppers walking the sidewalks. If you go to the other squares at that time of day, there will be a lot of activity. Maybe the aging population of that area has fewer residents getting out as much. I know as we grow older, we don’t go out as frequently as we did 12 years ago when we first moved here. Perhaps the proposed apartments in SS will attract a younger demographics and help keep some of the businesses open….. just saying….
i think you make a very good point
PugMom
08-29-2022, 10:20 AM
Has anyone else noticed there isn't a Chinese restaurant at either of the three town squares. There is one Japanese restaurant at Lake Sumter Landing, which appears to be well patronized.
Perhaps a little diversity in dining at Spanish Springs is in order.
there is no decent chinese anywhere in the villages, believe me, i've looked. i'm an 'upnorth', where chinese is made to perfection, with a flavor like no other, & have yet to come across it here
PugMom
08-29-2022, 10:23 AM
If that’s the case, then Sawgrass is doomed from the get go.
i visited the 1st time a few days ago, & can only say,...it's under construction,- very few choices available @ this time. hopefully it will turn into what the developer's had told us it would be, thriving & exciting
LianneMigiano
08-29-2022, 10:24 AM
Bet you dollars-to-donuts that few (IF ANY) food establishments are paying the $15 "living wage" that some are ranting about
Babubhat
08-29-2022, 10:32 AM
The customers or lack thereof have spoken
Stu from NYC
08-29-2022, 10:49 AM
there is no decent chinese anywhere in the villages, believe me, i've looked. i'm an 'upnorth', where chinese is made to perfection, with a flavor like no other, & have yet to come across it here
We have found Kayame to be pretty good for takeout
HoosierPa
08-29-2022, 10:54 AM
With $15 hamburgers that didn’t even include French fries, that was predictable from the beginning. We took one look at their expensive online menu and never visited even once.
With high quality food and not a belly stuffer priced meal, It would make it with different demographics
Dr Winston O Boogie jr
08-29-2022, 11:44 AM
Very good question you’ll be surprised between 200% to 500% markup. Of course buying supplies from food distributor similar to SYSCO or Cheney Bros is way less expensive than Publix, Walmart or WD prices.
Anyone who has ever been in business can understand that high Markups may be necessary to cover expenses. Businesses in The Villages are paying much higher rents and have to pay a percentage of profits to The Villages. I’m only trying to point out that markups and margins are only one side of the equation.
Dr Winston O Boogie jr
08-29-2022, 11:46 AM
I had the very best burger of my life there when it first opened. I wish I had the chance to go back for another but it sounds like it’s too late. They were pricey but my burger was worth it. I must admit that I’m not surprised to hear that they are closing, but I’m also a bit sad.
Try the burgers at Wolfgang Puck’s. Expensive but awesome.
Dr Winston O Boogie jr
08-29-2022, 11:48 AM
We have found Kayame to be pretty good for takeout.
I agree. Koyame is the best Chinese food in The Villages.
Aloha
08-29-2022, 03:03 PM
There seems to be a growing number of restaurants with outrageously high prices. These are perfect outlets for seniors who wish to reduce their inheritance for their relatives to fight over.
Babubhat
08-29-2022, 03:10 PM
Current restaurants value proposition is low. It’s always been a tough business. Expect more to fold
tophcfa
08-29-2022, 08:37 PM
Just read on the online news site that the Farmshed venue is being taken over by the FMK Restaurant Group. That’s the best news I have heard regarding the Spanish Springs area in a long time. In my opinion FMK is the premier restaurant operator in the entire Villages, operating establishments like the Chop House and Blue Fin. Hopefully they will continue the excellence and open a comparable restaurant in Spaninh Springs. My vote would be for another seafood place similar to Blue Fin : )
dewilson58
08-30-2022, 05:32 AM
That’s the best news I have heard
Hope they don't spread themselves too thin.
:icon_hungry:
ThirdOfFive
08-30-2022, 05:43 AM
Welcome to $15.00 minimum “living wage” - thanks progressive thoughts (demands).
So true.
If that $15 or so minimum wage is pricing restaurants out of the range of (relatively) affluent Villagers, just think of what it is doing to the people whose ONLY “dining out” option is the burger-and-fries joint? Answer is obvious.
Same dynamic at Wal-Mart and other cut-rate establishments. Most of us visit Wal-Mart from time to time by choice. But for some people it is the ONLY choice, and those establishments are going more and more toward automated services. Most Wal-marts now have far more automated checkout stations than they have live checkout clerks.
What good is a $15 minimum wage if you’re not working at all? Again, answer is obvious.
pauld315
08-30-2022, 08:50 AM
If you want to be successful here you need to offer huge portions at cheap prices period.
walterray1
08-30-2022, 09:00 AM
Koyame has always been good in our opinion. However, they apparently were fairly recently bought out by a new owner. We got a takeout last week and it was still good. Will have to see how they do over time.
tophcfa
08-30-2022, 09:35 AM
If you want to be successful here you need to offer huge portions at cheap prices period.
Chop House would prove that to be incorrect, people don’t mind paying a premium for good quality food. I have no problem paying up for a well prepared quality cut of filet minion. The problem with Farmshed is they were trying to sell premium quality Hamburg?
chet2020
08-30-2022, 09:37 AM
Too bad, one of our favorites. Pricy, but worth it.
If that $15 or so minimum wage is pricing restaurants out of the range of (relatively) affluent Villagers, just think of what it is doing to the people whose ONLY “dining out” option is the burger-and-fries joint? Answer is obvious.
What good is a $15 minimum wage if you’re not working at all? Again, answer is obvious.
That minimum wage does not apply to servers working for tips. There's is $6.98/hour. Many workers would forgo that wage for an opportunity to work at higher tab restaurants like Bonefish, The Chop House, Rose Plantation and others. The larger their station, the more they make. Figure 3 tables in your station, 4 patrons each, $50pp meals, 18% tip, turned 3 times in your shift... You go home with $324 per night in tips (plus that measily $34.90 wage for 5 hours of work).
That's $93K per year!
Restaurant's wages are only $9K of that.
Skip
JMintzer
08-30-2022, 03:33 PM
That minimum wage does not apply to servers working for tips. There's is $6.98/hour. Many workers would forgo that wage for an opportunity to work at higher tab restaurants like Bonefish, The Chop House, Rose Plantation and others. The larger their station, the more they make. Figure 3 tables in your station, 4 patrons each, $50pp meals, 18% tip, turned 3 times in your shift... You go home with $324 per night in tips (plus that measily $34.90 wage for 5 hours of work).
That's $93K per year!
Restaurant's wages are only $9K of that.
Skip
The minimum wage is only part of what they get. If they don't get another $3-4/hr in tips, their employer must make up the difference...
Now, that doesn't change what you said about hi-end restaurants, but just a minor nit to pick...
coffeebean
08-30-2022, 03:38 PM
We have found Kayame to be pretty good for takeout
We like Bamboo Bistro. I bit more expensive but the food is really good and the atmosphere very nice.
Stu from NYC
08-30-2022, 06:19 PM
We like Bamboo Bistro. I bit more expensive but the food is really good and the atmosphere very nice.
We like it as well. We will have dinner there but Koyame we have takeout.
However understand that Koyame was sold some months ago and the prior owners are refurbishing and opening a new place on 466. Will definitely give it a try
tophcfa
08-30-2022, 06:44 PM
We like Bamboo Bistro. I bit more expensive but the food is really good and the atmosphere very nice.
Love their crab fried rice.
The minimum wage is only part of what they get. If they don't get another $3-4/hr in tips, their employer must make up the difference...
Now, that doesn't change what you said about hi-end restaurants, but just a minor nit to pick...
Properly picked my friend. If the restaurant has no customers that day. The employee is guaranteed a standard wage. (Differs but restaurant owner.)
That said, they would still rather have the tips than the wage.
How interesting it is that in most of Europe, it is "service compris", yet here the bottom of the bill suggests 18%, 20%, 22% tip with the tax already added too.
Skip
BTW...
In the last year or so, how many of you noticed a 3% charge folded into your bill for credit card use? More and more restaurants seem to be doing that now. Especially in Leesburg.
And the suggested tip is based on food/drink, plus 7% tax, plus 3% fee. OMG!
Skip
Garywt
08-31-2022, 01:08 AM
Just read on the online news site that the Farmshed venue is being taken over by the FMK Restaurant Group. That’s the best news I have heard regarding the Spanish Springs area in a long time. In my opinion FMK is the premier restaurant operator in the entire Villages, operating establishments like the Chop House and Blue Fin. Hopefully they will continue the excellence and open a comparable restaurant in Spaninh Springs. My vote would be for another seafood place similar to Blue Fin : )
Their website says they are being absorbed by FMK or something like that. We are not fans of The Chop House but we do like Belle Glade. Hopefully they will open another nice restaurant.
Stu from NYC
08-31-2022, 07:24 AM
BTW...
In the last year or so, how many of you noticed a 3% charge folded into your bill for credit card use? More and more restaurants seem to be doing that now. Especially in Leesburg.
And the suggested tip is based on food/drink, plus 7% tax, plus 3% fee. OMG!
Skip
We have not seen that 3% charge. Tipping a higher percentage than in the past but only base it on the charge for the meal itself
tophcfa
08-31-2022, 08:39 AM
Their website says they are being absorbed by FMK or something like that. We are not fans of The Chop House but we do like Belle Glade. Hopefully they will open another nice restaurant.
My excitement that FMK is opening up an operation in SS goes well beyond getting another quality restaurant in the area. Reading between the lines, we all know the developer won’t disclose to the general public any detailed future plans for the area. On the other hand, it’s highly likely an experienced and successful businesses operator such as FMK wouldn’t sign a lease and commit significant capital to a new business venture without answers to some critical questions about the areas future. I highly doubt FMK would make such a commitment without assurances that things like nightly entertainment and special events like the “Cruise In” are in the long term future plans of SS. Although nobody knows the future, this is no doubt a positive sign!
walterray1
08-31-2022, 08:49 AM
Interesting about previous owners of Koyame. Do you know where on 466?
JSR22
08-31-2022, 08:57 AM
Interesting about previous owners of Koyame. Do you know where on 466?
Southern Trace Plaza where the Chinese Buffet was located.
walterray1
08-31-2022, 10:04 AM
They should do well there. Assume they will need a new name for the new restaurant. Will be interesting.
bagboy
08-31-2022, 10:21 AM
They should do well there. Assume they will need a new name for the new restaurant. Will be interesting.
Kung Fu Chef Asian Restaurant
REDCART
08-31-2022, 10:50 AM
Southern Trace Plaza where the Chinese Buffet was located.
This is a perfect example about “location” being critical for a business’s success. We always enjoyed Koyame but it was too damn far, unless we were in the neighborhood for another reason, which might happen only once or twice a year. Even though Southern Trace (466) is not around the corner for us, it’s a lot more convenient for us, and we eagerly look forward to a new and better Chinese food experience.
Garywt
08-31-2022, 11:01 AM
My excitement that FMK is opening up an operation in SS goes well beyond getting another quality restaurant in the area. Reading between the lines, we all know the developer won’t disclose to the general public any detailed future plans for the area. On the other hand, it’s highly likely an experienced and successful businesses operator such as FMK wouldn’t sign a lease and commit significant capital to a new business venture without answers to some critical questions about the areas future. I highly doubt FMK would make such a commitment without assurances that things like nightly entertainment and special events like the “Cruise In” are in the long term future plans of SS. Although nobody knows the future, this is no doubt a positive sign!
I agree 100%. Kind of puts to rest some of the many rumors about the square. Hopefully everything will be as it has been plus a few apartments I guess.
Stu from NYC
08-31-2022, 11:07 AM
My excitement that FMK is opening up an operation in SS goes well beyond getting another quality restaurant in the area. Reading between the lines, we all know the developer won’t disclose to the general public any detailed future plans for the area. On the other hand, it’s highly likely an experienced and successful businesses operator such as FMK wouldn’t sign a lease and commit significant capital to a new business venture without answers to some critical questions about the areas future. I highly doubt FMK would make such a commitment without assurances that things like nightly entertainment and special events like the “Cruise In” are in the long term future plans of SS. Although nobody knows the future, this is no doubt a positive sign!
I am sure that the owners of FMK have better access to the developer and Villages management than we ever will.
JSR22
08-31-2022, 11:15 AM
They should do well there. Assume they will need a new name for the new restaurant. Will be interesting.
Coastal Del Mar a seafood grill.
OrangeBlossomBaby
08-31-2022, 01:51 PM
That minimum wage does not apply to servers working for tips. There's is $6.98/hour. Many workers would forgo that wage for an opportunity to work at higher tab restaurants like Bonefish, The Chop House, Rose Plantation and others. The larger their station, the more they make. Figure 3 tables in your station, 4 patrons each, $50pp meals, 18% tip, turned 3 times in your shift... You go home with $324 per night in tips (plus that measily $34.90 wage for 5 hours of work).
That's $93K per year!
Restaurant's wages are only $9K of that.
Skip
You forgot that those meals are usually "specials" or happy hour specials, or thursday specials, or b1g1 with coupon specials, and of those 4 people, only 2 of them pay full price. And the people tip on what they were charged, rather than what the regular price is. So if they paid only $10 for their $50 meal they only tip based on the $10 they paid.
Some folks overtip. But they don't make up for those who undertip. You're lucky if you get one table in an entire shift that tips MORE than 20% on the actual charged tab.
Some folks overtip. But they don't make up for those who undertip. You're lucky if you get one table in an entire shift that tips MORE than 20% on the actual charged tab.
On the contrary, we are personal friends with a number of servers and assistant managers here. The wait staff are happy to work in a senior environment. Younger sports bar crowds often stiff the wait staff but not so much retirees.
$20 bills right in their hand (un-reported) is not uncommon for good friendly attentive service on seniors. They appreciate us and like working here even if we are a little ornery at times. :smiley:
Skip
Coastal Del Mar a seafood grill.
Can't wait. We will be regulars.
Skip
Stu from NYC
08-31-2022, 07:40 PM
You forgot that those meals are usually "specials" or happy hour specials, or thursday specials, or b1g1 with coupon specials, and of those 4 people, only 2 of them pay full price. And the people tip on what they were charged, rather than what the regular price is. So if they paid only $10 for their $50 meal they only tip based on the $10 they paid.
Some folks overtip. But they don't make up for those who undertip. You're lucky if you get one table in an entire shift that tips MORE than 20% on the actual charged tab.
Thinking you are over generalizing
xNYer
08-31-2022, 08:13 PM
The tipped minimum wage in Florida is $6.98. Tipped employees have a different minimum wage structure.
So true.
If that $15 or so minimum wage is pricing restaurants out of the range of (relatively) affluent Villagers, just think of what it is doing to the people whose ONLY “dining out” option is the burger-and-fries joint? Answer is obvious.
Same dynamic at Wal-Mart and other cut-rate establishments. Most of us visit Wal-Mart from time to time by choice. But for some people it is the ONLY choice, and those establishments are going more and more toward automated services. Most Wal-marts now have far more automated checkout stations than they have live checkout clerks.
What good is a $15 minimum wage if you’re not working at all? Again, answer is obvious.
OrangeBlossomBaby
09-01-2022, 10:43 AM
The tipped minimum wage in Florida is $6.98. Tipped employees have a different minimum wage structure.
Some restaurant owners will stiff their wait staff horribly. There's one in particular near me. Wait staff and bartenders are paid the "tipped" minimum wage of $6.98/hour.
The credit card tips are all pooled, and /most/ customers pay by credit card and include their tip with their card payment.
The pool is then distributed evenly to all employees, including kitchen staff and the hostess who all get paid $10 minimum wage (since they are not considered tipped employees and therefore their minimum wage must be the standard minimum in the state).
Most waiters in this restaurant will end up earning LESS than the $10 standard state minimum wage after the pool has been evenly distributed. The restaurant has to make up the difference between the average hourly pay and the minimum hourly wage of each employee, which means that no matter how amazing your waiter is, he's only going to earn $10/hour if you and everyone else pays by credit card and includes the tips in the card payment.
Most customers don't know this, and don't think about it, don't wonder about it, and don't think to bring the "right amount" of cash to top their waiter if they're planning on paying by credit card.
And then - they don't see any of that tip money til it shows up in their paycheck, with 25% taxes taken out.
This particular restaurant has an insanely high turnover and can't ever get enough people to work for them during any shift, on any day.
They need a different structure, in my opinion. They should pay ALL employees $10/hour, before tips. And then ask the wait staff and bartenders to kick in 10% of their nightly tips to the kitchen staff. Tips should be paid out either the same day, or the next day if it's for a closing shift employee.
retiredguy123
09-01-2022, 11:06 AM
Some restaurant owners will stiff their wait staff horribly. There's one in particular near me. Wait staff and bartenders are paid the "tipped" minimum wage of $6.98/hour.
The credit card tips are all pooled, and /most/ customers pay by credit card and include their tip with their card payment.
The pool is then distributed evenly to all employees, including kitchen staff and the hostess who all get paid $10 minimum wage (since they are not considered tipped employees and therefore their minimum wage must be the standard minimum in the state).
Most waiters in this restaurant will end up earning LESS than the $10 standard state minimum wage after the pool has been evenly distributed. The restaurant has to make up the difference between the average hourly pay and the minimum hourly wage of each employee, which means that no matter how amazing your waiter is, he's only going to earn $10/hour if you and everyone else pays by credit card and includes the tips in the card payment.
Most customers don't know this, and don't think about it, don't wonder about it, and don't think to bring the "right amount" of cash to top their waiter if they're planning on paying by credit card.
And then - they don't see any of that tip money til it shows up in their paycheck, with 25% taxes taken out.
This particular restaurant has an insanely high turnover and can't ever get enough people to work for them during any shift, on any day.
They need a different structure, in my opinion. They should pay ALL employees $10/hour, before tips. And then ask the wait staff and bartenders to kick in 10% of their nightly tips to the kitchen staff. Tips should be paid out either the same day, or the next day if it's for a closing shift employee.
Requiring tipped employees to share tip income with non-tipped employees, like the kitchen staff or the hostess, is illegal. If I were a tipped employee, I would not allow the restaurant to give any tip income to non-tipped employees. It is basically stealing.
From lawsuitlegal.com:
"WHEN IS TIP POOLING ILLEGAL IN FLORIDA?
While tip pooling is legal in some instances, some practices are illegal in nearly every state, including Florida. It is illegal when tipped employees are forced to share their tips with non-tipped employees (managers, cooks, bouncers, etc). A valid tip pool allows for contributions to be shared only among other employees who regularly receive tips. Investigating the pooling practice with an employment lawyer is the easiest way to determine if the pooling practices at your place of employment are in violation of the law."
Stu from NYC
09-01-2022, 12:07 PM
Requiring tipped employees to share tip income with non-tipped employees, like the kitchen staff or the hostess, is illegal. If I were a tipped employee, I would not allow the restaurant to give any tip income to non-tipped employees. It is basically stealing.
From lawsuitlegal.com:
"WHEN IS TIP POOLING ILLEGAL IN FLORIDA?
While tip pooling is legal in some instances, some practices are illegal in nearly every state, including Florida. It is illegal when tipped employees are forced to share their tips with non-tipped employees (managers, cooks, bouncers, etc). A valid tip pool allows for contributions to be shared only among other employees who regularly receive tips. Investigating the pooling practice with an employment lawyer is the easiest way to determine if the pooling practices at your place of employment are in violation of the law."
Wonder what really happens when you pay cash to server?
JMintzer
09-01-2022, 03:18 PM
Some restaurant owners will stiff their wait staff horribly. There's one in particular near me. Wait staff and bartenders are paid the "tipped" minimum wage of $6.98/hour.
The credit card tips are all pooled, and /most/ customers pay by credit card and include their tip with their card payment.
The pool is then distributed evenly to all employees, including kitchen staff and the hostess who all get paid $10 minimum wage (since they are not considered tipped employees and therefore their minimum wage must be the standard minimum in the state).
Most waiters in this restaurant will end up earning LESS than the $10 standard state minimum wage after the pool has been evenly distributed. The restaurant has to make up the difference between the average hourly pay and the minimum hourly wage of each employee, which means that no matter how amazing your waiter is, he's only going to earn $10/hour if you and everyone else pays by credit card and includes the tips in the card payment.
Most customers don't know this, and don't think about it, don't wonder about it, and don't think to bring the "right amount" of cash to top their waiter if they're planning on paying by credit card.
And then - they don't see any of that tip money til it shows up in their paycheck, with 25% taxes taken out.
This particular restaurant has an insanely high turnover and can't ever get enough people to work for them during any shift, on any day.
They need a different structure, in my opinion. They should pay ALL employees $10/hour, before tips. And then ask the wait staff and bartenders to kick in 10% of their nightly tips to the kitchen staff. Tips should be paid out either the same day, or the next day if it's for a closing shift employee.
If you're getting paid "$10"/hr", there is no way you're paying 25% in taxes...
JMintzer
09-01-2022, 03:20 PM
Requiring tipped employees to share tip income with non-tipped employees, like the kitchen staff or the hostess, is illegal. If I were a tipped employee, I would not allow the restaurant to give any tip income to non-tipped employees. It is basically stealing.
From lawsuitlegal.com:
"WHEN IS TIP POOLING ILLEGAL IN FLORIDA?
While tip pooling is legal in some instances, some practices are illegal in nearly every state, including Florida. It is illegal when tipped employees are forced to share their tips with non-tipped employees (managers, cooks, bouncers, etc). A valid tip pool allows for contributions to be shared only among other employees who regularly receive tips. Investigating the pooling practice with an employment lawyer is the easiest way to determine if the pooling practices at your place of employment are in violation of the law."
Like paper beats rock, facts beat "opinions"...
OrangeBlossomBaby
09-01-2022, 03:59 PM
Requiring tipped employees to share tip income with non-tipped employees, like the kitchen staff or the hostess, is illegal. If I were a tipped employee, I would not allow the restaurant to give any tip income to non-tipped employees. It is basically stealing.
From lawsuitlegal.com:
"WHEN IS TIP POOLING ILLEGAL IN FLORIDA?
While tip pooling is legal in some instances, some practices are illegal in nearly every state, including Florida. It is illegal when tipped employees are forced to share their tips with non-tipped employees (managers, cooks, bouncers, etc). A valid tip pool allows for contributions to be shared only among other employees who regularly receive tips. Investigating the pooling practice with an employment lawyer is the easiest way to determine if the pooling practices at your place of employment are in violation of the law."
Just because something is illegal doesn't mean people won't do it. Do you know of anyone who will hire a lawyer and take a restaurant owner to court for illegal tipping practices? I don't. They have a rapid turnover, and there are lots of other places hiring. It's much easier to take the job, find out it's lousy, quit, and go somewhere else where your time and work is better appreciated.
Also most of these employees don't KNOW that it's illegal. They don't know it's even something they need to look up. They take it at face value because it's their first job, or their first job since they retired in another state 20 years ago, or they just plain don't know any better.
fdpaq0580
09-01-2022, 04:09 PM
You forgot that those meals are usually "specials" or happy hour specials, or thursday specials, or b1g1 with coupon specials, and of those 4 people, only 2 of them pay full price. And the people tip on what they were charged, rather than what the regular price is. So if they paid only $10 for their $50 meal they only tip based on the $10 they paid.
Some folks overtip. But they don't make up for those who undertip. You're lucky if you get one table in an entire shift that tips MORE than 20% on the actual charged tab.
While I do generally tip 20%, I abhor what the practice has become. What was once a nice little "thanks" for doing your job, is now an expected duty to supplement wages to the tune of 20% of your order. The cost of your order bears little on the amount of effort to write down your order, pick it up and bring it to your table. One has the $10 spaghetti. Tip $2. Another has spaghetti w/lobster at 35. Tip $7. 350% more for the same job??? I'm not complaining because I can't afford $5.50, I just think the tip system is broken.
A gratuity was a hoped for but not expected monetary "thank you". (remember "keep the change"?) Now, if the wait person doesn't get 20% of the bill they will just as likely tell their associates what a cheap a$$ b@$tard you are you 18% tipstick.
OrangeBlossomBaby
09-01-2022, 04:10 PM
If you're getting paid "$10"/hr", there is no way you're paying 25% in taxes...
As I was told by someone who works in this restaurant, it's 25% of the TIPS that are deducted as their total taxes. That is what their boss told them, as an explanation of their paycheck. But it might just be more scamming and skimming of employee income.
OrangeBlossomBaby
09-01-2022, 04:12 PM
Wonder what really happens when you pay cash to server?
The employee is /supposed/ to declare 100% of their income including tips, and take whatever deductions they're entitled to take, whether standard or itemized.
But at the restaurant in my posts, the server gets to keep all cash tips. Only the credit card tips are pooled, and employees (all of them) end up averaging $10/hour in their paychecks. That's why I think there's some pretty shady shenanigans going on with their manager or store owner.
It also explains the high turnover there.
retiredguy123
09-01-2022, 04:13 PM
Just because something is illegal doesn't mean people won't do it. Do you know of anyone who will hire a lawyer and take a restaurant owner to court for illegal tipping practices? I don't. They have a rapid turnover, and there are lots of other places hiring. It's much easier to take the job, find out it's lousy, quit, and go somewhere else where your time and work is better appreciated.
Also most of these employees don't KNOW that it's illegal. They don't know it's even something they need to look up. They take it at face value because it's their first job, or their first job since they retired in another state 20 years ago, or they just plain don't know any better.
A restaurant owner would be foolish to violate the employee payment laws. An employee could work there for 6 months or a year, and then hire a lawyer who would gladly sue the restaurant for back pay and legal expenses. I certainly wouldn't risk it. The restaurant is stealing money from their employees. A tip is the property of the server who receives it, unless it is legally pooled.
OrangeBlossomBaby
09-01-2022, 04:18 PM
A restaurant owner would be foolish to violate the employee payment laws. An employee could work there for 6 months or a year, and then hire a lawyer who would gladly sue the restaurant for back pay and legal expenses. I certainly wouldn't risk it. The restaurant is stealing money from their employees. A tip is the property of the server who receives it, unless it is legally pooled.
I don't know if there is any employee there that's been there longer than a month. When I say "high turnover" I mean HIGH turnover. Every time I go there, there are brand new employees, and they still don't have enough wait staff to handle the number of tables there, so they just - don't fill them all. Their customer base has dwindled because of it. Last time I was there I ordered over the phone for a pick-up. They said 20 minutes. I got there in around 15. I waited another 45 minutes for the order because they were backed up - with fewer than 10 tables occupied. They had two servers that shift, and one was standing in as hostess. I don't know what the manager was doing, or even if he was there at the time.
retiredguy123
09-01-2022, 04:22 PM
The employee is /supposed/ to declare 100% of their income including tips, and take whatever deductions they're entitled to take, whether standard or itemized.
But at the restaurant in my posts, the server gets to keep all cash tips. Only the credit card tips are pooled, and employees (all of them) end up averaging $10/hour in their paychecks. That's why I think there's some pretty shady shenanigans going on with their manager or store owner.
It also explains the high turnover there.
The server doesn't need to declare 100 percent of their tip income. The IRS has an 8 percent rule for restaurant tip income. The restaurant is required to calculate 8 percent of their total gross income and provide a Form W-2 to each tipped employee based a proration of the number of hours they worked during the year. Then, the employee can either pay income taxes based on the W-2, or they can dispute the amount and declare a smaller amount of tip income.
coffeebean
09-01-2022, 05:16 PM
We like it as well. We will have dinner there but Koyame we have takeout.
However understand that Koyame was sold some months ago and the prior owners are refurbishing and opening a new place on 466. Will definitely give it a try
I didn't know that. Thank you for the information about Koyame. We have dined there too. Do you know the name of their new restaurant on 466?
coffeebean
09-01-2022, 05:17 PM
Love their crab fried rice.
I haven't tried that but will next time we dine there.
coffeebean
09-01-2022, 05:20 PM
My excitement that FMK is opening up an operation in SS goes well beyond getting another quality restaurant in the area. Reading between the lines, we all know the developer won’t disclose to the general public any detailed future plans for the area. On the other hand, it’s highly likely an experienced and successful businesses operator such as FMK wouldn’t sign a lease and commit significant capital to a new business venture without answers to some critical questions about the areas future. I highly doubt FMK would make such a commitment without assurances that things like nightly entertainment and special events like the “Cruise In” are in the long term future plans of SS. Although nobody knows the future, this is no doubt a positive sign!
I like your thought process. I want nothing more than for Spanish Springs to thrive.
coffeebean
09-01-2022, 05:25 PM
Coastal Del Mar a seafood grill.
Which is it????
Coastal Del Mar or Kung Fu Chef Asian Restaurant?
JMintzer
09-01-2022, 07:27 PM
As I was told by someone who works in this restaurant, it's 25% of the TIPS that are deducted as their total taxes. That is what their boss told them, as an explanation of their paycheck. But it might just be more scamming and skimming of employee income.
If it's on their paycheck, it's actual withholding, not "scamming or skimming"...
That said, they'll get it back when they pay their taxes, as someone who only makes $10/hr pays virtually no federal taxes...
JMintzer
09-01-2022, 07:29 PM
The server doesn't need to declare 100 percent of their tip income. The IRS has an 8 percent rule for restaurant tip income. The restaurant is required to calculate 8 percent of their total gross income and provide a Form W-2 to each tipped employee based a proration of the number of hours they worked during the year. Then, the employee can either pay income taxes based on the W-2, or they can dispute the amount and declare a smaller amount of tip income.
Facts are better than anecdotes...:thumbup:
kkingston57
09-01-2022, 09:24 PM
Another steak house in the Spanish Springs area? There is a Longhorn, an Outback and a Texas Roadhouse within 2 miles of Spanish Springs. If there ever was a case of two many(including others not listed) restaurants in an area, this is a prime example.
Ecuadog
09-01-2022, 11:15 PM
Which is it????
Coastal Del Mar or Kung Fu Chef Asian Restaurant?
Coastal Del Mar replaces Farmshed American Diner (Spanish Springs).
Kung Fu Chefs Asian Restaurant goes where China Buffet used to be (Southern Trace Plaza).
Just read on the online news site that the Farmshed venue is being taken over by the FMK Restaurant Group. That’s the best news I have heard regarding the Spanish Springs area in a long time. In my opinion FMK is the premier restaurant operator in the entire Villages, operating establishments like the Chop House and Blue Fin. Hopefully they will continue the excellence and open a comparable restaurant in Spaninh Springs. My vote would be for another seafood place similar to Blue Fin : )
Ditto. Love Blue Fin.
My friends and I tip at least 20% or more. We tip cash and we make sure the waiter or waitress gets the tip before we leave the table.
JSR22
09-02-2022, 06:44 AM
Which is it????
Coastal Del Mar or Kung Fu Chef Asian Restaurant?
The restaurant going into the Farmshed location is Coastal Del Mar.
coffeebean
09-02-2022, 02:11 PM
The restaurant going into the Farmshed location is Coastal Del Mar.
Oh. Thank you for the clarification.
Chi-Town
09-02-2022, 02:35 PM
Let's hope Costa Del Mar means the Florida coast and not more cod and haddock. Bring on the grouper, mahi mahi, and red snapper.
asianthree
09-02-2022, 04:13 PM
Let's hope Costa Del Mar means the Florida coast and not more cod and haddock. Bring on the grouper, mahi mahi, and red snapper.
Or will it be seafood grill
tophcfa
09-02-2022, 08:25 PM
Let's hope Costa Del Mar means the Florida coast and not more cod and haddock. Bring on the grouper, mahi mahi, and red snapper.
I’ll second that. That’s exactly what we buy from the Lighthouse Seafood store on 466 and bring home to grill on the cast iron. It sure would be nice to be able to go out and have it prepared for us.
coffeebean
09-05-2022, 03:45 PM
Coastal Del Mar replaces Farmshed American Diner (Spanish Springs).
Kung Fu Chefs Asian Restaurant goes where China Buffet used to be (Southern Trace Plaza).
Anyone know if Kung Fu Chefs Asian Restaurant is open yet?
wisbad1
09-05-2022, 04:59 PM
Far too many establishments charging 20 for a burger and fries. If they need that price they should shut their doors
They used Covid for a excuse, they need to bring prices back down. Too many reasons why they can’t, just don’t want to
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