Insults on menu for diners at tsundere cafe

Diners are about to be served up abuse and insults, or else be ignored, at a Japanese “tsundere” cafe in Woodlands, Singapore.

“Tsundere” is a Japanese term for a character-development process in which a cold and hostile person eventually warms up to you, explains the organiser, Subatoki Cafe, a small business that launched late last year to specialise in Japanese-themed cafes.

For one day only, the Luminos pop-up at Woodlands will have its wait staff dressed as butlers and maids. Reservations are necessary, with set meals costing between S$19.90 and $25, depending on how soon you book.

As well as a main dish, a cake and a drink, the set meal includes a complimentary service gacha (a random draw with “rewards” that range from a massage to a forehead flick, or being fed by a waiter).

Customers can expect rudeness (harsh words and insults, all in the name of fun), being ignored, and the rough handling of objects such as menus being thrown on the table and trays being slammed.

One can also pay $2 for the service gacha for random services including games and a Polaroid photo. If a specific service is required, the fee rises to $5.

Meanwhile, customers are expected to refrain from retorting, even when faced with abuse. Anyone who feels uncomfortable with the treatment, the management “has the right to remove customers who get aggressive at any point”.

Photography is also banned, but guests wanting to be photographed with the staff can buy a Polaroid slot.

February 24 is the big day, with the cafe open from 11am to 6pm.

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