A San Francisco chef was fired after refusing to provide a free meal to an influencer who requested it in exchange for “exposure.” The restaurant later cited “poor judgment,” but the chef’s dismissal ignited widespread backlash online. Many chefs rallied behind him, saying the incident highlighted growing tension between hospitality workers and influencer culture.

A San Francisco chef was fired after refusing to provide a free meal to an influencer who requested it in exchange for “exposure.” The restaurant later cited “poor judgment,” but the chef’s dismissal ignited widespread backlash online. Many chefs rallied behind him, saying the incident highlighted growing tension between hospitality workers and influencer culture.