A New York restaurant owner is facing accusations of allegedly editing a woman’s photo to make her look like Shrek after she complained about the restaurant’s use of an AI-generated menu.
The situation occurred after Dove and Deer restaurant in Albany shared an AI-generated menu on Instagram. The post quickly faced criticism from followers and customers who opposed the use of AI in restaurant posts, including menus. The restaurant’s official Instagram account then began responding to the critical comments.
Some of the comments from community members included, “is the food also AI generated? I’m not going to eat at a fake restaurant” and “Please don’t use AI.” Locals believed that the restaurant’s replies were ironic and appeared to mock the customers rather than apologize for using AI.
One of the restaurant’s replies read, “At this time, artificial intelligence is unable to sauté Brussels sprouts. We appreciate your vigilance!” Another reply also said, “Your comment has been forwarded to the appropriate algorithm.”
Along with the restaurant’s replies to critical comments, the situation drew significant backlash after the owner was allegedly accused of using a private account to mock a commentator’s appearance. A woman had simply written “Ew” under the AI-generated menu post, after which a private account allegedly linked to the owner responded with a modified picture of the woman that made her look like Shrek. The account also asked, “This you?” alongside the offensive image. However, it has not been confirmed that the restaurant owner was behind the private account.
The restaurant’s replies and the alleged comment mocking the woman’s appearance were also criticized in the comment section. One person told the restaurant, “This is like a masterclass in how not to respond to comments my god.”
Reddit user u/Gold-Cry4482 was the person who shared the screenshots online. They later provided an update, writing, “the owner deleted the original post and reuploaded the Ai menu with the comments off.” As of now, Dove and Deer has not responded to the criticism. The restaurant’s Instagram page still has the new AI-generated menu post with the comments turned off, as was claimed.
Viewers Slam New York Restaurant Owner Over Alleged Comment
The post sparked reactions online. Many viewers criticized the New York restaurant owner over the alleged comment from the private account. They also criticized the restaurant itself over the replies made by its Instagram account. “Food sucks,” one person wrote. Another person said, “This place used to be the best in Albany, then the original owners sold and now it’s like two dogs in a trench coat masquerading as a high quality restaurant.”
More people criticized the restaurant for using AI in the first place. “I don’t understand why businesses feel the need to use ai images of food if they don’t have the resources to take good photos. Restaurants with good food generally don’t have pictures on the menu,” one person wrote. Others said they planned to boycott the restaurant, with another person saying, “You know, this place was on my list of places to try since they’re one of the few that participate in the various cc/hotel/airline loyalty dining programs. Thanks for posting this and the subsequent comments below about the owners’ behavior, not going. Not worth the points.”
The controversy highlighted the importance of restaurants responding to criticism respectfully and being willing to accept customer feedback. This is rather than arguing with those who raise concerns. It also reflected the growing criticism some restaurants face when they use AI-generated content in their menus or social media posts.
