BTN News: A pizzeria in the Madrid suburb of Valdemoro has recently skyrocketed to viral fame, thanks to the quirky and bold signage displayed within its establishment. The pizzeria, reportedly run by a Serbian owner, has captured the attention of thousands on social media with its unapologetically strict yet humorous set of rules for customers. In just a few hours, photos of the signs, shared by a user on the platform X (formerly Twitter), garnered over 5,000 likes, sparking a mix of admiration, amusement, and debate among online users.
One of the key signs outlines three “golden rules” for patrons. The first emphasizes the importance of politeness, reminding customers that quality food takes time to prepare: “Understand that food doesn’t come from a can, and the waiter doesn’t have wings. Here, we may take up to seven days for certain products, so be patient. Your turn will come. Don’t destroy the stickers on the tables.” This directive sets the tone for a dining experience where respect and understanding are non-negotiable.
The second rule is all about maintaining a sense of humor. The sign encourages patrons not to take offense at the expressions or customs of others and discourages leaving negative reviews that could undermine the hard work of the restaurant and its loyal customers: “Don’t take it as an offense if you encounter different expressions or customs from other clients. Giving us bad reviews throws away all our efforts and those of the customers who have supported us constantly, just so you can enjoy a different kind of pizza today.”
The third rule stresses the importance of preparation before ordering. The sign advises customers to scan the QR code provided before asking for a table, ensuring they know exactly what they want to order: “We are authors, so we are different. When you ask for a table, know exactly what you want. Time is pure gold for us. Your moments of indecision make you lose priority in the oven turns.”
To drive the point home, the sign concludes with a firm message: “Don’t agree or can’t comply with these rules? Remember: this restaurant is not for you. Keep walking and go with God!” This no-nonsense approach to customer service has resonated with many, who see it as a refreshing change from the increasingly fast-paced and impersonal dining culture.
Another sign in the pizzeria goes into detail about the establishment’s working hours and the necessity of pre-ordering food. This transparency in how the business operates is intended to manage customer expectations effectively, ensuring that everyone understands why advance orders are crucial for the smooth running of the kitchen.
The reaction on social media has been largely positive, with many users applauding the restaurant’s straightforward approach. “I think it’s brilliant. If you don’t like it, don’t go,” one user commented, while another added, “It’s fantastic that they do this. We’ve become too accustomed to fast food.”
However, not everyone is sold on the idea. Some users have expressed skepticism, arguing that the rules may be too restrictive. One user likened the experience to “having to complete the A-38 form from the 12 tasks of Asterix just to eat a slice of pizza,” highlighting the potential for these rules to feel overwhelming to some customers. Another user pointed out that this is a prime example of managing customer expectations, noting that in this case, the product takes center stage, not the customer. “The experience is the product, and if you want it, you have to adapt,” they remarked, inviting others to weigh in on whether this model is a step too far or a necessary evolution in customer service.
In a world where fast food and instant gratification have become the norm, this Valdemoro pizzeria stands out by offering a unique, deliberate dining experience that prioritizes quality, humor, and clear communication. Whether you find it refreshing or off-putting, there’s no denying that this pizzeria has sparked a conversation about what customers should expect—and what’s expected of them—in the dining world today.
