A Malaysian woman’s candid post on Threads about feeling uncomfortable while dining alone at a popular coffee chain has sparked an online discussion about café etiquette and the growing “laptop culture” in public spaces.
In her post, the woman described feeling like the odd one out after noticing she was the only customer among seven occupied tables who was actually eating a meal.
Dining with “guilt”
According to her, the remaining tables were occupied by patrons working on laptops, each of whom had purchased only a drink. She said the atmosphere was so quiet that even the sound of her spoon touching the plate drew disapproving glances from nearby customers.
“I actually felt guilty for eating. Every time my spoon or fork clinked against the plate while I was eating, I could feel nearby patrons staring at me. It was uncomfortable throughout the meal,” she wrote.
The experience was particularly disappointing for her because the outlet had long been one of her favourite comfort spots. She shared that she had been visiting the café since her younger days, especially during difficult periods such as after a break-up, and associated its food with fond memories and emotional comfort.
However, she said the tense atmosphere made it difficult to enjoy her meal, leaving her frustrated.
For illustration purposes only
A dine-in space turned into a working environment
The woman also joked that the café had become so quiet that new customers appeared hesitant to speak after looking around to gauge the environment. She noted that the downstairs seating area seemed more relaxed because it was closer to the counter, while the upper floor was largely occupied by people using laptops and other electronic devices.
She humorously added that even teenage couples on dates were whispering to each other. While many sympathised with her experience, others pointed out that customers are generally free to work in cafés as long as they make a purchase and comply with the establishment’s policies.
WORLD OF BUZZ has reached out to the Threads user for comment but has yet to receive a response.
Also read: 36yo M’sian Ends Up Losing RM120k Savings After Café Takeover Due to Overlooking Rental Agreement
