STUPID way to run a business, especially now with the Internet. Look up how much business he probably lost over a pizza that cost him maybe $10 to make.
I owed a dry cleaners in Fort Lauderdale for 40 years, one of the largest in the area. Whenever the customer had a problem, I refunded their money no questions asked, just smart business.

The waitress should also have realized that it had expired.

About the coupon. I did not see it so I can't be certain, but in the past I have seen coupons that had a "starting" date, but no official ending date. Like "chuming" for fish, you don't to catch all the fish on that one day, but as long as the chum lasts it will continue to attract fish (customers). I have also seen coupons that are good for one day. But, unless the coupon states month/day/ year ONLY, how can you be certain what the rules are. Coupons was, imo, open to question. Customer asked the employee who accepted the coupon as valid. If customer had paid cash and received a receipt, the deal would have been complete. If the employee was in error, manager would have no argument with customer. Management was at fault for inadequacy in training.
Coupons need to be clear, concise, complete in conveying information about the offer. If there is any ambiguity at all, somebody will get it wrong.

As to the post being real or accurate? Maybe. Maybe not. I wasn't there.

Damn! Always a bridesmaid...

😄😉