Since the publicity in Florida about arresting customers, I have talked with shops in KC and Lawrence. They all say business is much slower. As some of you have commented, often there is only one girl working. A few I know pretty well say they can’t keep additional girls because there isn’t enough business to make money. One of my favorites wanted to come back (from China) but was refused because the owner needs to make all the money to keep the shop open.
Tax season (slows down business every year) and March Madness probably also a factor. But customers (and many shops) are more cautious. Two results I’ve seen: (1) menus have become more conservative in some shops over concern about LE. And (2) menus in other shops have expanded because survival is their issue (Please don’t PM me asking which ones. I can’t keep track and can’t guarantee anything because it’s always YMMV. How well do they know you and how nice do you treat them?). We’ll see what Spring and Summer bring - no special sporting events and tax refunds have arrived.
If more publicity on raiding shops and customers keeps coming, it may get pretty quiet around KC and Lawrence.
Your thoughts on good alternatives please.....