Village Kitchen

[Sunset View]

For years we have been going to the VK. Of late I am concerned as I see very little business at the VK while the Bob House is packing them in.

The VK still has great food and the service is fabulous......of late however, I have seen a dramatic reduction of the portions. Recently I had the steak tips and the meal came in a small plate and was not fulfilling at all. Same too for the chicken finger plate; clearly portion sizing is down and serving size has seen a reduction. While we are loyal to the VK, we did try the Bob House and the portions were dramatically more significant and the qualiity of the burgers, fries, salads and appetizers in general were outstanding...come on VK...we're pulling for you!!!!!

[Charlie T]

I was at the VK 2 weeks ago for Breakfast, The food, quality and portion size were just as good as always. I don't believe for a second that anyone is cutting back there.

When I see a post such as the one above I think there is a not so hidden agenda

\VK is the BEST. Keep up the good work

Charlie T

[HomeWood]

We went to the VK around derby time. We couldn't have been happier with both visits.

[WINNOCTURN]

For years we have been going to the VK. Of late I am concerned as I see very little business at the VK while the Bob House is packing them in.My wife and I do enjoy the Bob House when the Dining Room is open Thursday - Saturday, but some times the meals can be hit or miss. I do think what pulls customers in is the BAR. I was once told that the number of cars in the parking lot can be deceiving. A lot of customers come by themselves, not 2 to four in a single car?

You can not beet the 2 egg cheese omelet and "REAL" home fries at the VK!

[NickNH]

I love them both (VK and Bob House)......

[Hermit Cover]

I've always found the food and service to be a sure thing at the VK.....I need help with my Farmers Breakfast....tooo much food....and the price can't be beat. The lunch portions are always lunch sized and the dinners usually come in two sizes (Turkey)....I guess I need to eat there more than 4 or 5 times a week to be hyper-critical...I love the place.... and the staff.... always attentive..... from the kitchen to the dining room! VK rocks IMHO!:liplick:

[Pontoon Goon]

For years we have been going to the VK. Of late I am concerned as I see very little business at the VK while the Bob House is packing them in.

The VK still has great food and the service is fabulous......of late however, I have seen a dramatic reduction of the portions. Recently I had the steak tips and the meal came in a small plate and was not fulfilling at all. Same too for the chicken finger plate; clearly portion sizing is down and serving size has seen a reduction. While we are loyal to the VK, we did try the Bob House and the portions were dramatically more significant and the qualiity of the burgers, fries, salads and appetizers in general were outstanding...come on VK...we're pulling for you!!!!!

Really Sunset View, (we're pulling for you !!!!!). Charlie T. hit it right on the head, you didn't hide your agenda well at all. As a matter of fact I would bet dollars to donuts you are the same poster who whined about the chicken parm last year.

[VitaBene]

I do not eat dinner at the VK, but eat plenty of other meals there. The portions or quality have not slid.

Love the VK!!

[Sunset View]

Really Sunset View, (we're pulling for you !!!!!). Charlie T. hit it right on the head, you didn't hide your agenda well at all. As a matter of fact I would bet dollars to donuts you are the same poster who whined about the chicken parm last year.

No Agenda, as I noted, we are pulling for the VK, just an honest observation....Chicken parm at the VK? I think not, never been on the menu in my 28 years going there....but I would try it if it were offered! You and Charlie T must have had your chicken parm at the Bob House.

[kchadw]

Happy Thursday everyone....
( my first message here at the forum..)

I've been reading about the different " good restaurants " .

My wife and dogs and I will be coming north from Fl. to my home state of N.H. this summer and plan on staying in our motor home somewhere near the lake so will be visiting restaurants for a few months...Could someone tell me what town or village these restaurants are located in....

Also, any leads on where we might find some seasonal work or where to look to find any. We both are experienced in Bus. Mgmt. and have worked as a team for 20 years...transportation and medical fields are also strong in out backgrounds...thanks...
I read the forum almost daily and enjoy it very much...thank you for the little pleasures in life...lol

[SIKSUKR]

Restaurants are in Moultonborough.You should start your own thread about asking for other info.

[Shreddy]

I love the VK and the Farmer's breakfast will never get old to me. I don't think the portions have slid, however, the price has gone up drastically in the past few years. As it stands now, I still think it's worth the price, but it hurts when it comes to over $10 now because everything cost extra (flavored pancakes, cheese on the eggs, etc.). Again, it won't stop me anytime soon, I simply remember when this meal was significantly cheaper. Then again, what isn't going up in price lately?

[Hermit Cover]

I haven't noticed that the prices on the VK menu.....or any other restaurant in the Lakes Region for that matter....have increased.

I am surprised because I haven't noticed that food prices have increased in our local grocery markets........ ...What? You say they have? Oh!:look:

With fuel prices on the rise I am much more concerned with a report that is coming up saying that Exxon will report a 15 BILLION Dollar profit for the latest quarter.....???? Fuel profits raise food costs to the consumer.....the restaurant goer.

[SAMIAM]

Just noticed your post Sunset and wanted to address some of your comments. We definitely have not cut any portions......I'm guessing that my new "point of sales" system might have printed out a small instead of large order because it was served on smaller plate.In any case,I promise to check that out and fix it the minute I get back (on vacation right now) although it sounds like you have warmer weather than we do.
We very much appreciate the heads up........we might never know about problems




without a little constructive criticism
As far as business goes,we are down just a few % points from last year due losing our snowmobilers,so things are pretty much normal.
The Bob House is a great place....many of our customers go back and forth and many of my crew love to hang out there, also.They are quite different than we are......they have a full bar and more relaxed dining...we are more of a comfort food kind of place and I think we compliment each other rather than compete.
.

[Newbiesaukee]

I may not always agree with Samiam on the Forum...but he is always honest and to -the -point. He runs the VK the same way and the VK (and its crew) are the thing I miss most about the Lake when we are not there.

[BroadHopper]

VK donated a spaghetti supper this evening to support Gilford USROBOTICS team. Congratulations to the team on winning the Regional. They are heading to the World Championship!

[Sunset View]

Just noticed your post Sunset and wanted to address some of your comments. We definitely have not cut any portions......I'm guessing that my new "point of sales" system might have printed out a small instead of large order because it was served on smaller plate.In any case,I promise to check that out and fix it the minute I get back (on vacation right now) although it sounds like you have warmer weather than we do.
We very much appreciate the heads up........we might never know about problems




without a little constructive criticism
As far as business goes,we are down just a few % points from last year due losing our snowmobilers,so things are pretty much normal.
The Bob House is a great place....many of our customers go back and forth and many of my crew love to hang out there, also.They are quite different than we are......they have a full bar and more relaxed dining...we are more of a comfort food kind of place and I think we compliment each other rather than compete.
.

Samiam:

Thank you for your thoughtful and business like response. As noted in my earlier post, we love you guys and the VK has been a part of our NH Home for almost 30 years. Your food has always been consistently outstanding, the service exceptional and the excitement and fun of going to the Vk is a key componment of our time at Winni.

I have never once offered an opinion about your prices as I always have felt you folks do a bang-up job on the value proposition..........mine was merely an observation and as noted, we pull and continue to pull for you. You may be correct on the size ordered as well......perhaps it was my fault!

I will make sure I ask for the large size on my next visit to be certain I haven't created too much of an issue. If I erred, I will acknowledge and respectfully post immediately!!

Again, thanks for the kind and thoughtful response; as an owner operator, I wish everyone was as proactive and non-defensive about observations for improvement, especially from their customers. We sincerely hope your trafiic/customer counts go up by 10% or more this year, I know we'll be there!!!

Best regards

[dpg]

First of all let me just say I eat at the VK when I'm up and get the chance me and my wife like it very much! BUT.....Honestly it's (almost) impossible to be critical about anything there partly in my opinion because of Samians presence (and popularity) on this site. PLEASE...PLEASE...don't everyone trash me now again, I love the place too just my .02. Last fall (actually fair weekend) I had a minor incident there and we (Samian and myself) talked via private messages I didn't want to write anything that (literally) the whole world could read.

[SAMIAM]

Thanks for the kind words Sunset and I meant what I said when I told you we appreciate any feedback.....good example is DPG.....he had a service problem last summer and contacted me by PM. I sat down with Ronda, our dining room manager and tracked it right down to the person that had dropped the ball while waiting on them. We had a chat with her and don't believe that will happen again.
Every now and then, in this business, someone can have a bad day and not do the job that you expect of them....it happens in most restaurants... and thanks to you guys, we try and stay on top of it before it goes any further.......so please don't feel bad about b+++t'n at me. I'm grateful to know.

[Sunset View]

We ate at the VK Saturday evening and again Sunday morning........the Sat evening meal was sensational, the portions large and the quality of service exceptional! I posted a few weeks back about the quantity of portions being smaller, on Saturday night, our meals were plentiful and a great value.

What can you say about the VK for breakfast...no one in NH does it better!

Nice Work VK.....We love you guys!

[tummyman]

Wife and I just returned from a late meal at VK tonight. No problems at all with the portions. By the way, we also tried the new Lobster Bisque that Chef Seth prepared tonight. It was FABULOUS. Never had any better. Hot, creamy, lobster, etc. Next time we will not settle for a cup, but go for a bowl. VK still is tops in terms of friendly staff....thanks Marion as always!!....and they continue to deliver good quality food served hot, quick, tasty, and value priced.

[Jonas Pilot]

... when the VK was next to the gas pumps? Has it been under the same ownership all these years? That was one of my favorite stops back in the 80's.

If my memory is a little corn fused I'm open to a refreshing.

[Greene's Basin Girl]

Was it Bud's Pub?

[SAMIAM]

That's going back a ways, Greens Basin Girl.....and you're right. It went from Bud's Pub to a convenience store and then to the original VK which we opened in 1985. We moved to the new VK in Dec of 1994 and still have a lot of the original crew.
We used to go to Bud's for big plates of delicious steamed clams....and, of course, the cold beer.

[GusMan]

SAMIAM,

While I do not own a place at the Big Lake, I often travel to the area to fish bass tournaments. I have been enjoying breakfast at th VK since you were located at the gas station. The food, portions and value are always great.

What *really* impresses me though, is your truly OUTSTANDING staff. I have never seen a more dedicated, hard working and friendly bunch than there is at the VK. I can honestly say that I cannot even suggest one way to improve the service at your establishment.

Keep up the good work!

Cheers....

Gusman

[Jonas Pilot]

The VK still offers New Hampshire hospitality just like in days gone by. That's an awful long time for any business to maintain their standards and personality. The Village Kitchen has never forgotten what got them going so long ago. That's friendly and prompt service, an excellent product and a fair price. It's a simple and easy game plan, but it takes a special team to do it for 30 plus years.

[VitaBene]

Bob, I noted your sign that your staff is now all CPR and Defib trained- nice job! Did you buy a defibrillator?

[SAMIAM]

We did buy one,VitaBene......it is serviced by our local FD .Sent all of our waitstaff to two days of extensive training on how to use it as well as getting them all certified in CPR.Also,all of our cooks are ServSafe certified.
We were motivated after reading a story about a guy that collapsed at his gym while working out......he could have been easily saved but no one there knew CPR and there was no defibrillator handy.
We have a wonderful crew and they take a lot of pride in the fact that they are ready to jump in if there is an emergency.

[Shreddy]

Enjoyed my farmer's breakfast yesterday morning (as usual when I take time to head over)...not surprising by any means. Nothing short of perfect for a breakfast. VK never fails to disappoint and epitomizes what breakfast at the lake should be from the atmosphere to the staff, all the way down to the end product, the FOOD!

[Hermit Cover]

I get the CPR training but have never heard of ServSafe? Please explain. Thanks....Bob

[SAMIAM]

Sure,glad to explain.ServSafe is a safe food handling course that was developed by the National Restaurant Association and adopted by most of the states including NH.The course is taught by UNH for a fee of $145 per student and a 75% grade or higher is needed for certification.
The state of NH requires one person per shift to be certified but we choose to have everyone on our kitchen crew attend.Once the course is complete,the test takes an entire 8 hour day.
It's really a great course that includes food safety from delivery,storage,preparation to serving.You must abide by a chart and timetable for heating and cooling product.Strict temperature guidlines have to be followed(cold foods 38 or lower hot foods 140 or higher)gloves must be used for handling any finished product.....I could go on and on but I think you get the idea.
Inspections are given without notice and are very tough but it's great for keeping us all on our toes.
Bottom line is......every restaurant in NH has to abide by these rules.....even little hole in the wall joints so it's really safe to eat out.

[songkrai]

For years we have been going to the VK. Of late I am concerned as I see very little business at the VK while the Bob House is packing them in.

The VK still has great food and the service is fabulous......of late however, I have seen a dramatic reduction of the portions. Recently I had the steak tips and the meal came in a small plate and was not fulfilling at all. Same too for the chicken finger plate; clearly portion sizing is down and serving size has seen a reduction. While we are loyal to the VK, we did try the Bob House and the portions were dramatically more significant and the qualiity of the burgers, fries, salads and appetizers in general were outstanding...come on VK...we're pulling for you!!!!!


Back to the original post.
This restaurant is an asset to the community and to the Lakes Region.
A staff that is outstanding.
Excellent service.
Reasonable pricing.

Maybe it is just perception.
Maybe it is the size and shape of dishes.
Some meals do come in different sizes.

More then once, though, with others, the statement that portions are getting smaller has come up while dining there. Never at the breakfast meal.

[Redwing]

I had breakfast two mornings last week with friends from Connecticut, and as usual, it was outstanding (both service and food). I checked out the green curtains (based on an earlier comment by a forum member about their being "dated") and must say that I agree. Less is more, IMHO, and with the awnings is there really a need for any curtains? I would suggest simply removing the little green curtains. Just my two cents!! Otherwise, everything is perfect as it has been for years, and years, and years.....Redwing :coolsm:

[SAMIAM]

... when the VK was next to the gas pumps? Has it been under the same ownership all these years? That was one of my favorite stops back in the 80's.

If my memory is a little corn fused I'm open to a refreshing.

Yup, Jonas...that was us. Never tried to be trendy or upscale, just cooking like grandma used to do. We were there 10 years before we built the new VK up the street.
And GusMan...thanks so much for appreciating my great crew. Sammie and I are so lucky to have those guys. Many have been with us for many years and some from day one. Lots of second generation people, too.
They are like family out there .
I'll make sure that I show them your post......good luck fishing. Next time you a hit a big one give me a call and we'll cook it up for you.

[Sunset View]

Yup, Jonas...that was us. Never tried to be trendy or upscale, just cooking like grandma used to do. We were there 10 years before we built the new VK up the street.
And GusMan...thanks so much for appreciating my great crew. Sammie and I are so lucky to have those guys. Many have been with us for many years and some from day one. Lots of second generation people, too.
They are like family out there .
I'll make sure that I show them your post......good luck fishing. Next time you a hit a big one give me a call and we'll cook it up for you.Ate at the VK 2 x's this weekend; breakfast Sunday morning (outstanding in every way) and Saturday night dinner. I ordered the clam plate (small) and was blown away at just how small it was (my fault) 7 clams! I guess I was trying to cut back because I also ordered a large salad(It too was outstanding) I asked our waitress for an additional order of clams and she immediately had them on my plate within 5 minutes and they were well worth the extra charge. I had the finest clams I have tasted in years! I think in one other post I voiced concern about the portion/size of the dinner meal; one has to wonder if the smaller size dinner plates gives the illusion of being a smaller meal, just my 2 cents. Good size eaters should err on the side of opting for the larger meal plates going forward, they are a fabulous value.

Samiam and team; great food, exceptional service (thin, lovely blonde lady Sat night) fast turnarounds and just great, consistent experiences, BTW, when we left the VK Saturday evening, we headed directly to Red Hill Dairy for a Cherry Dip and a Hot Fudge Sundae.........THERE IS NO PLACE LIKE THE VK!

THANK YOU

[ChocolateGypsy]

Sure,glad to explain.ServSafe is a safe food handling course that was developed by the National Restaurant Association and adopted by most of the states including NH.The course is taught by UNH for a fee of $145 per student and a 75% grade or higher is needed for certification.
The state of NH requires one person per shift to be certified but we choose to have everyone on our kitchen crew attend.Once the course is complete,the test takes an entire 8 hour day.
It's really a great course that includes food safety from delivery,storage,preparation to serving.You must abide by a chart and timetable for heating and cooling product.Strict temperature guidlines have to be followed(cold foods 38 or lower hot foods 140 or higher)gloves must be used for handling any finished product.....I could go on and on but I think you get the idea.
Inspections are given without notice and are very tough but it's great for keeping us all on our toes.
Bottom line is......every restaurant in NH has to abide by these rules.....even little hole in the wall joints so it's really safe to eat out.

Just wanted to add that ServSafe is one of several companies that provide this certification. Some states require that every employee have a basic level certification on file with the restaurant and that managers and chefs have a more advanced certification -- Nice to see NH is headed in this direction. But at this time, seasonal restaurants are exempt from the above stated requirements.

[Lakesrider]

I had a big problem at the VK Sat night. It took more than 4 minutes to get my Prime Rib to the table..:D.....And the piece was almost too big......Maybe the serving staff is figuring out who I am and that I love my Prime Rib on Sat nights.....:laugh: :rolleye1: :laugh:

[riverat]

At the VK right now having a great breakfast.

[HomeWood]

Let's hope for a good snowmobiling season. I certainly don't mind driving to the VK, but there's just something extra special about making the adventure over to there by sled instead.

[dpg]

First let me say I love the place also and go when I'm "up" there...But following up on the curtain comment last time there I did think to myself the entrance can use some sprucing up. Not sure maybe painting, maybe a new door just needs some TLC in my opinion...

[Lakesrider]

Hey you guys at the VK......You don't need to cook as much prime rib this Sat. I will be away for a couple Saturdays enjoying the rain in Kauai......But I'll be back for some on the 22nd......:D BTW I did stop in and got a couple of Poat roast dinners to go.....I hadn't had pot roast in a while.....it was very good. And I like the fact I can get take out there too on my way n home and it is just as fast as if I were eating there......

[rick35]

After hearing about Village Kitchen on the forum we decided to go last night. The food was excellent and the prices were very reasonable. The tables were all full when we left so others have already discovered this gem. We'll be back!

[rsmlp]

always thought VK would be an excellent choice for DDD!

[phoenix]

They would need a specialty item as most DDD have something that Guy tries and they film

[Bumble2249]

always thought VK would be an excellent choice for DDD!


Not at all IMHO. It needs to be an establishment that has either super large portions or unique creative twists on the usual dish, or both.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Jeanzb1]

Having lived in the Lakes Region for six years, we had never been to the VK until last night. FABULOUS!! There were four of us, most tables were occupied, but we got right in and had wonderfully prompt service. The food was outstanding! I'm so glad we tried it because now we will be regulars -- and it's especially good to know they are open year-round!!!

[rsmlp]

Not at all IMHO. It needs to be an establishment that has either super large portions or unique creative twists on the usual dish, or both.

on second thought, you're right. they need a "sig" dish

[VitaBene]

I did my first snowmobile work day in the am, then stopped at vk for a delicious open turkey sandwich which led to a great nap!!

[secondcurve]

SAMIAM: I have seen a numerous occasions a SUV on RTE 128 in Massachusetts with the NH license plate SAMIAM. Is this you?

[VitaBene]

SAMIAM: I have seen a numerous occasions a SUV on RTE 128 in Massachusetts with the NH license plate SAMIAM. Is this you?

Let's see if I have it straight...

Bob does most of the posting after he hijacked his wife Sammie's account here :D Sammie drives the SUV with the SAMIAM plates and Bob drives a pickup with the grandkids initials on the plate.

Now I'm hungry, I think I will shoot to the VK for lunch!

[SAMIAM]

SAMIAM: I have seen a numerous occasions a SUV on RTE 128 in Massachusetts with the NH license plate SAMIAM. Is this you?

Not on 128....she rarely drives in Mass. Was it a NH plate?
My wife Sammie has had SAMIAM for 35 years. We have seen other variations such as SAM1AM, SAMIAM+ and so forth but she is the original

[secondcurve]

Yes. Nh plate 128 south below 93. Jeep I think. Maybe it was a slightly different spelling. I've seen at a few times in the last year. I'll look closer next time.

[baygo]

I finally got to try The VK today after golfing at Ridgewood. I started with wild mushrooma and rice soup which was very tasty then enjoyed my meatloaf dinner so much I had to add on lemon mer range pie for dessert.

I almost past on the visit when i saw the tour bus in the parking lot. Glad I didn't. The staff did a GREAT job handleing the bus load as well as this loan diner.

VK nailed it forme when I had a craving for country cooking and friendly service.

Thanks:)

[SAMIAM]

I finally got to try The VK today after golfing at Ridgewood. I started with wild mushrooma and rice soup which was very tasty then enjoyed my meatloaf dinner so much I had to add on lemon mer range pie for dessert.

I almost past on the visit when i saw the tour bus in the parking lot. Glad I didn't. The staff did a GREAT job handleing the bus load as well as this loan diner.

VK nailed it forme when I had a craving for country cooking and friendly service.

Thanks:)

Thanks for the kind words Baygo....and right back at you for the awesome visit this summer that my whole tribe (including grandkids) enjoyed at your place. First tapas experience for the little ones and they were giddy for each new course. So much fun.

[Just Sold]

Not on 128....she rarely drives in Mass. Was it a NH plate?
My wife Sammie has had SAMIAM for 35 years. We have seen other variations such as SAM1AM, SAMIAM+ and so forth but she is the original

I saw SAMIAM (NH plate) on a Honda van, light green or grey, this morning in Derry heading north into Londoderry on Rte 28. I did not write down the excat letters used but I thought of this thread right away.

[baygo]

I forgot to mention how much I enjoyed the spectacular view out the back windows. What is the name of the very beautiful blue flowering wine you have growing in the foreground? It's enormous and proof that your guests are not the only to be fed well.

Everyone should get by there soon to take in the view!

[SAMIAM]

Sammie planted a bunch of morning glories but there is a big birdhouse under that tangle .....birds don't seem to mind.

[donnamatrix]

Had lunch at VK on 10/18 - the terrific pot roast sandwich - clearly the leftovers from the Pot Roast dinner - and cannot tell you how wonderful it was. It was as if my mother's spectacular pot roast had returned. GREAT JOB. LOVE THE VK

[Hermit Cover]

My Mother always told me, " If you can't............well.......you know the rest! :)

[TiltonBB]

Went in to the village kitchen Friday night. Always enjoy the fish fry. It is 'the best around.' We've been avoiding the kitchen for breakfast though since the morning woman has been a bit cranky. Was annoyed to see her working at night and more annoyed to hear her phone start ringing when serving us.

Well, if you read the 58 posts before yours you may notice that everyone has nice things to say about the Village Kitchen. That includes me. I have been going there for years and enjoy the excellent food and very pleasant staff. I especially enjoy going there for breakfast because the service is great and the waitresses are so pleasant!

Sometimes when you are the only one complaining you have to think...............Maybe it's.....................

[tummyman]

VK is a terrific spot. Have found the waitress staff to be very hard working and they make every effort to accommodate folks. Food is great.....never had a bad meal or a bad experience. Seth the night cook is top notch. Makes terrific lobster chowder and clam chowder. This is a family atmosphere restaurant. If the staff bothers you this much, maybe it is time to just look elsewhere. These folks work VERY hard and I know many of them by first name.

[Hermit Cover]

As participants in this forum, which I feel IMHO is one of the best Vacation Website forums in the country (Thanks to our Webmaster) we often offer our opinions about "things" like boats, lodging, fish, photos, and so on...but we often fall into a diatribe about people and things get personal...
I think we need to remember "Judging a person does not define who they are.....it defines who you are! " :)

[ghfromaltonbay]

Glad to see you back on the forum and survived the winter. It's been a while since you posted.:)

[LSBA Joker]

It's been a number of years, do they serve adult beverages. Tx!

[HomeWood]

"Was annoyed to see her working at night and more annoyed to hear her phone start ringing when serving us."

Really? For all you know she was waiting for a very important call. Maybe a family member is in the hospital for a procedure, a birth, or maybe a family member is expecting to land any minute after serving over seas. Who knows? And maybe there is a good reason for her to be "cranky". Did you try asking her if there was a problem? Sometimes a kind word can change somebody's attitude and you can both part ways happier. Jeepers, some can just complain about anything.

[SAMIAM]

It's been a number of years, do they serve adult beverages. Tx!

Not a big selection but beer and wine is available.

[Billy Bob]

"Was annoyed to see her working at night and more annoyed to hear her phone start ringing when serving us."

Really? For all you know she was waiting for a very important call. Maybe a family member is in the hospital for a procedure, a birth, or maybe a family member is expecting to land any minute after serving over seas. Who knows? And maybe there is a good reason for her to be "cranky". Did you try asking her if there was a problem? Sometimes a kind word can change somebody's attitude and you can both part ways happier. Jeepers, some can just complain about anything.

Hang on, a server with a cell phone active is just 100% wrong ! You never see servers with cell phones . Let's not get carried away justifying this because we like the owner

[thinkxingu]

I would have absolutely no issue with a server having an active cell phone IF he/she just mentioned it. As a teacher, my phone is always on silent, but when my wife was pregnant, I told each class that until the baby was born I would have my wife's number programmed to ring and no one else.

I would do the exact same thing if I were waiting on other important news, but this sounds like it might be an ongoing issue of attitude and performance.

[NonVoting Taxpayer]

A server at the very least should have the phone in their pocket on silent. As a patron, I'd be insulted if you stopped taking my order to talk on your phone. That would infer someone is more important than I am as a patron of the business. As an employer, I'm sure that one phone call did not benefit my business at all.
What has society become if we can't wait five minutes to get back to a person who probably just wants to find out what the weather is? Obviously some will disagree but just the fact we are having this discussion speaks for itself. As a business owner I wouldn't be happy this conversation is even taking place. I'm fully aware you cannot keep everyone happy but a server stopping to talk on their phone just seems so insulting under any circumstance.

[HomeWood]

Nobody said she had to stop taking an order to grab a call and on silent would be better. The VK is not a $100 per plate dining experience kind of place. It's just a nice place to grab good food with a friendly small town feel. Some things just aren't worth investing the time to worry about but that's me.

[Joebon]

I hope she washed her hands after she touched her phone.

[VitaBene]

I have eaten at the VK well over a hundred times and have never had anything but prompt and professional service. I certainly have never seen anyone on the phone when in the middle of providing service!

[bruinsfan]

I too, have enjoyed many meals at the VK. It's a great place for a fast & economical meal.

The service has always been ok. Only complaint is lack of attention to detail; I've gotten the wrong side order several times......and it's always the same waitress. I've sat in different areas in hope of not getting her; if we do, my wife and I chuckle at our internal joke. Something WILL be wrong with the order.

The first time it happened, I said something. After that, I just felt sorry for her; no sense in trying to help those who don't care. Just my 2¢....

[dpg]

I also agree it's a great quick meal, my only complaint if I had to think of something is the fact that they take no plastic as a form of payment. I don't go for the excuse it helps keep their cost down. I'd rather see the prices increase a couple percent for the added convenience. In todays society everybody uses it and it's getting to be more and more of an inconvenience when you come across an establishment that doesn't take it.

[jeffatsquam]

I also agree it's a great quick meal, my only complaint if I had to think of something is the fact that they take no plastic as a form of payment. I don't go for the excuse it helps keep their cost down. I'd rather see the prices increase a couple percent for the added convenience. In todays society everybody uses it and it's getting to be more and more of an inconvenience when you come across an establishment that doesn't take it.

How about next time your headed up put an extra $100.- in your pocket stop in and get 4 $25.- gift certificates keep them in wallet or vehicle (they take up less room than a credit card) and then you will always have VK cash.... Or not

[Pineedles]

I also agree it's a great quick meal, my only complaint if I had to think of something is the fact that they take no plastic as a form of payment. I don't go for the excuse it helps keep their cost down. I'd rather see the prices increase a couple percent for the added convenience. In todays society everybody uses it and it's getting to be more and more of an inconvenience when you come across an establishment that doesn't take it.

They do have an ATM inside for those who want to use plastic. I personally think that is a much better way, than increasing paperwork and prices.

[thinkxingu]

They do have an ATM inside for those who want to use plastic. I personally think that is a much better way, than increasing paperwork and prices.
If I remember correctly, it's a $3 charge to use it. I've avoided that by paying with check, but I agree with the post above that it's time to start accepting cards.

[Pineedles]

If I remember correctly, it's a $3 charge to use it. I've avoided that by paying with check, but I agree with the post above that it's time to start accepting cards.

All I am saying is, raising the prices for everyone is not the answer. You avoid the ATM fee by paying by check. That's great. It's just another way the VK makes it easy for one to pay. I love this place and I know that hundreds of other folks do too as well.

[Crusty]

Many years ago, I worked on the "big iron" that ran the largest VISA processor in the country. We worked ceaselessly to 1) ensure the network was up and running 24/7 and 2) maximize profit. Consequently, I have always been interested in just how lucrative credit card processing can be.

Until late in 2010, merchants were over a barrel if they accepted credit cards. They had to pay both a transaction fee and a percentage of the sale. The rates were set by the card companies and if you didn't agree to it, you couldn't accept the card. The most troublesome part of this merchant "agreement" was that merchants couldn't promote other forms of payment or discourage use of the card. Because the states and federal government finally went after the card issuers, that part of the agreement is now gone. A merchant is free, in principle at least, to add a "credit card fee" to a bill. [Typically, $.35 + 3-5% of the total.] However, most merchants are afraid that such charges would discourage business.

Also, since 2014, debit card fees have been capped at $.21 per transaction (which provides a huge profit for the banks).

Final analysis, if a restaurant decides to accept credit cards, they may need to increase their prices by about 5% just to cover the banks' cut. Accepting debit cards is much cheaper, although significant if the average check is small.

Of course, don't forget that banks charge a per check fee for deposits. Some also impose a charge for cash deposits. If your cash deposit is over $10k, you need to file federal forms. [If your cash deposit is regularly just under $10k, the feds may seize your bank account and charge you under the "criminal banking" statutes.]

My conclusion is that if you are running a successful cash business with small margins, you need to think long and hard before taking 5% off your gross income.

[brk-lnt]

Until late in 2010, merchants were over a barrel if they accepted credit cards.


This wasn't my experience accepting cards for an online and physical store location in the late 90's/early 2000's. Like anything you had to shop around for the best deals, but there were several options.

The most troublesome part of this merchant "agreement" was that merchants couldn't promote other forms of payment or discourage use of the card.


This sounds like you worked for AMEX. They typically have/had their own agreement and the wording stated that you couldn't discriminate against AMEX specifically (EG: Visa/MC would have no additional fees, but AMEX cards would have a 2% surcharge, etc.

Companies have always been able to make the acceptance of credit cards options and offer an across the board CASH/CREDIT price difference. This may not have been true for EVERYONE merchant processor, but it wasn't a universal truth that you had no option for 2-tier pricing just because you accepted credit cards.



Because the states and federal government finally went after the card issuers, that part of the agreement is now gone. A merchant is free, in principle at least, to add a "credit card fee" to a bill. [Typically, $.35 + 3-5% of the total.] However, most merchants are afraid that such charges would discourage business.


Those numbers seem high to me, but as I recall it was all very much based on size of your business, average transaction size, average daily collections, etc. I think we were at like 2.5% for card-present transactions and 3.5% for online/card not present, plus a 25 cent fee.




Of course, don't forget that banks charge a per check fee for deposits. Some also impose a charge for cash deposits. If your cash deposit is over $10k, you need to file federal forms. [If your cash deposit is regularly just under $10k, the feds may seize your bank account and charge you under the "criminal banking" statutes.]

My conclusion is that if you are running a successful cash business with small margins, you need to think long and hard before taking 5% off your gross income.

Your conclusion is puzzling when you point out above that there is generally no free way to operate your business banking. You're charged for cash deposits, checks, etc. You also run the risk of bad checks (one of which could equate to a weeks worth of credit card fees).

[Greene's Basin Girl]

I also agree it's a great quick meal, my only complaint if I had to think of something is the fact that they take no plastic as a form of payment. I don't go for the excuse it helps keep their cost down. I'd rather see the prices increase a couple percent for the added convenience. In todays society everybody uses it and it's getting to be more and more of an inconvenience when you come across an establishment that doesn't take it.

I agree with you. I rarely carry much cash. Also I enjoy getting the points when I use my credit card. When I go on vacation I always fly free with my points.

[tummyman]

I like the fact the VK keeps prices low. We almost always pay by check...never an issue. Lot's of folks are on fixed incomes and being able to enjoy a reasonably priced meal at VK is an outing for some. I would not want to hurt some older folks or those on limited incomes. I suppose they could offer a credit card solution with a 3-4% fee tacked on the bottom for those who wish to use a credit card.....sort of like the two price structure in some gas stations..but which I HATE !!! I would not be in favor of an across the board price increase just to cover those who want to use a card.

[Shreddy]

This isn't that hard...everyone that goes to the VK and enjoys it knows that it's cash. There's an ATM right there if you're short, if not, plan ahead. I've been so desperate for VK several times that I've legit paid in quarters because I didn't have a bunch of cash and I refuse to get double whacked by the ATM. Regardless, as much as I would love for them to accept credit cards, I know they don't and it really isn't an issue because I KNOW they don't. Clearly it's not an issue because people still go there consistently.

VK will always be worth the hassle, to me, of finding cash to use to buy my farmer's breakfast...with chocolate chip pancakes, extra bacon, and cheese on my eggs (all for justifiable extra cost).

[WINNOCTURN]

This isn't that hard...everyone that goes to the VK and enjoys it knows that it's cash. There's an ATM right there if you're short, if not, plan ahead. I've been so desperate for VK several times that I've legit paid in quarters because I didn't have a bunch of cash and I refuse to get double whacked by the ATM. Regardless, as much as I would love for them to accept credit cards, I know they don't and it really isn't an issue because I KNOW they don't. Clearly it's not an issue because people still go there consistently.

VK will always be worth the hassle, to me, of finding cash to use to buy my farmer's breakfast...with chocolate chip pancakes, extra bacon, and cheese on my eggs (all for justifiable extra cost).

Shreddy,

I usually pay by CHECK, Meredith Village Savings. Not sure if it is just local Banks? Even though I pay the Bill by Check, I leave the TIP in CASH where it's by Check or Credit Card.

2 EGG cheese omelet, extra Home Fries and a side of Bacon! Can't be beat.:liplick::liplick:

[Shreddy]

Shreddy,

I usually pay by CHECK, Meredith Village Savings. Not sure if it is just local Banks? Even though I pay the Bill by Check, I leave the TIP in CASH where it's by Check or Credit Card.

2 EGG cheese omelet, extra Home Fries and a side of Bacon! Can't be beat.:liplick::liplick:

Sounds solid right there! Yeah, I forget about checks too. But checks are essentially more dead to me than cash. :D

[TiltonBB]

If I remember correctly, it's a $3 charge to use it. I've avoided that by paying with check, but I agree with the post above that it's time to start accepting cards.

The fee on the ATM at Village Kitchen is $2.50, not $3.00.

Don't forget that in order to provide that convenience for those people who do not carry cash there are significant costs to have an ATM available. The cost of the machine itself, access to internet service and a procesing company for the machine to provide transactions through. It is also necessary to tie up thousands of dollars in ATM machine inventory to have that cash available to customers.

Also, people who use that machine may take out a lot more money than they spend at the Village Kitchen so that they have a little "walking around" money.

There are no free lunches anymore! It costs money to go through life!

[TiltonBB]

I agree with you. I rarely carry much cash. Also I enjoy getting the points when I use my credit card. When I go on vacation I always fly free with my points.

You may think that you are flying free but all of the places that you use your credit card have increased their prices to cover the additional fees that your credit card company takes when you use your card. So really, you have paid all year long, every time you have used your card, by paying higher prices so that you can get your points.

Like the old muffler ad says.................."You can pay me now or you can pay me later" :laugh:

[Charlie T]

Like the old muffler ad says.................."You can pay me now or you can pay me later" :laugh:

Hate to be a nit picker but that was an old Fram oil filter commercial. :cool:

[brk-lnt]

Don't forget that in order to provide that convenience for those people who do not carry cash there are significant costs to have an ATM available. The cost of the machine itself, access to internet service and a procesing company for the machine to provide transactions through. It is also necessary to tie up thousands of dollars in ATM machine inventory to have that cash available to customers.


ATM's are very profitable to own these days. If the VK is actually *paying* to have an ATM there, they are getting robbed. They should either own the ATM (and make money off the fees) or lease the space to whoever owns/maintains the ATM.

[TiltonBB]

ATM's are very profitable to own these days. If the VK is actually *paying* to have an ATM there, they are getting robbed. They should either own the ATM (and make money off the fees) or lease the space to whoever owns/maintains the ATM.

The ATM's are only profitable beyond a significant number of monthly transactions. There are expenses like processing, internet access, disputed transactions, and repairs, that significantly affect the income. There is also state licensing because when a machine is not bank owned there is an annual state license fee. There is also the cost of keeping your cash in an an ATM machine

Also, all of the older ATM's must now be converted to a machine that accepts the newer credit cards that have the chip in them. That expense is in excess of $1,000 per ATM

[brk-lnt]

You may think that you are flying free but all of the places that you use your credit card have increased their prices to cover the additional fees that your credit card company takes when you use your card. So really, you have paid all year long, every time you have used your card, by paying higher prices so that you can get your points.

Like the old muffler ad says.................."You can pay me now or you can pay me later" :laugh:

Except that the price is the same cash or credit. So if the prices are going to be higher you might as well use a points card to get something back...

[wifi]

Except that the price is the same cash or credit. So if the prices are going to be higher you might as well use a points card to get something back...

Exactly, since everyone else is financing your points by paying higher prices

[Major]

Exactly, since everyone else is financing your points by paying higher prices

This is the definition of pennywise, pound foolish. If you're worried about paying an extra 2-5 percent for the convenience of paying with a credit card, eat at home. I highly doubt VK's prices are cheaper because it doesn't accept credit cards. I've eaten breakfast at VK, George's, Water Street, Deja Vu, etc. and haven't noticed an appreciable difference in price.

[dpg]

Lets not forget the number 1 reason and that is CASH IS KING. Nobody REALLY knows what your making, claiming, etc...We all know it's true. :eek:

[wifi]

...I've eaten breakfast at VK, George's, Water Street, Deja Vu, etc. and haven't noticed an appreciable difference in price.

But I like the VK, speaking from the theoretical



Lets not forget the number 1 reason and that is CASH IS KING. Nobody REALLY knows what your making, claiming, etc...We all know it's true. :eek:

Right on

[Joebon]

Is it true that Village Kitchen now accepts bitcoins?

[SAMIAM]

Lets not forget the number 1 reason and that is CASH IS KING. Nobody REALLY knows what your making, claiming, etc...We all know it's true. :eek:

Had to chuckle over this one.....wish I could stash a little mad money but,unfortunately we have a POS system......can't get a muffin out of the kitchen that's not recorded on the computer.
It's really not the 3% fee that keeps us from taking plastic.On busy days there is sometimes a line 4 or 5 deep waiting to pay and processing credit cards would slow things down.
I'm sure everyone here can remember a time they were waiting in line for a long transaction and a rejection can cause cause a huge delay.
Most of our customers are not here to linger over the lavish decorations.They want a good meal at a fair price and then want to get on with their day so we choose to keep things moving as fast as possible.BTW,if you need to use the ATM your bank will refund the fee if you save your receipt.
We know that the day will come when we have to make that change but for now it is working.

[brk-lnt]

I'm sure everyone here can remember a time they were waiting in line for a long transaction and a rejection can cause cause a huge delay.

I can't remember the last time I've been held up by someones card getting rejected. I can recall 3 times in the last month getting slowed down by check writers and someone claiming they had "exact change" somewhere within the confines a purse that would qualify as an oversize carry-on on some airlines.

Not taking credit cards on the basis of transaction processing times is not something I've heard of before.

[Bigstan]

Apple Pay is off the table ?

[Tired of Waiting]

Had to chuckle over this one.....(Snip).

SAMIAM, you do know that all of us here on this site can run your very successful business better than you, Right? After all we all have run a nice like village kitchen eatery that NO one has ever found an issue with!!

I know your policy and carry cash when I drive buy to have a bite to eat. Just saying.


ToW

[tis]

SAMIAM, you do know that all of us here on this site can run your very successful business better than you, Right? After all we all have run a nice like village kitchen eatery that NO one has ever found an issue with!!

I know your policy and carry cash when I drive buy to have a bite to eat. Just saying.


ToW

I know. You are very patient, Sam! I agree with Tow. People love to give advice don't they? Keep on doing what you have been doing all these years!

[ishoot308]

Why would Sam change anything?... They already have customers lined up out the door waiting to come in! They obviously know the recipe for success and have been a VERY successful business in an area where many fail. Why change a thing?... I know I wouldn't...

Dan

[upthesaukee]

No different than Pop's... cash or a check drawn on a NH bank.

Sent from my GT-P5210 using Tapatalk

[dpg]

Had to chuckle over this one.....wish I could stash a little mad money but,unfortunately we have a POS system......can't get a muffin out of the kitchen that's not recorded on the computer.
It's really not the 3% fee that keeps us from taking plastic.On busy days there is sometimes a line 4 or 5 deep waiting to pay and processing credit cards would slow things down.
I'm sure everyone here can remember a time they were waiting in line for a long transaction and a rejection can cause cause a huge delay.
Most of our customers are not here to linger over the lavish decorations.They want a good meal at a fair price and then want to get on with their day so we choose to keep things moving as fast as possible.BTW,if you need to use the ATM your bank will refund the fee if you save your receipt.
We know that the day will come when we have to make that change but for now it is working.

Yeah right.....Nuff said.....Bye....:D

[rsmlp]

After reading X number of responses in this thread I have to say that I am amazed at the silly things people can bitch at. I mean seriously people, is this all you have to do? If you don't like VK's policy of cash only, don't eat there!

[Rusty]

Restaurants that don't take credit cards are saying: "Hey customer, **** you!"

[meredith weekender]

All this talk about the VK makes me want to go have breakfast there this weekend. Guess we are going to the VK on Saturday morning.

[Tired of Waiting]

Restaurants that don't take credit cards are saying: "Hey customer, **** you!"

Last time there I had to stand in a waiting line to get a seat. Sure am glad I didn't have to stand in line waiting for your credit card to clear to get out.:D


And I never heard any customer standing in line to get in say the place was saying **** You cause they couldn't use their plastic money.


ToW

[HomeWood]

The VK's cash policy? I like the break from technology. How did people ever make it for all those years without cards?

[VitaBene]

Restaurants that don't take credit cards are saying: "Hey customer, **** you!"
That is ridiculous.

[Happy Gourmand]

The line outside the door on weekend mornings says it all. The great food at great prices are worth the minor inconvenience of not accepting credit cards. My only complaint is that we don't get there as often as we used to when we were in Moultonboro. Breakfast as good as any in the area, and better than most....oh boy...now I'm craving the Farmer's Breakfast!! :)

[Rusty]

That is ridiculous.

That could be, but any restaurant that refuses credit cards is losing 25-30% in business.
There is no doubt that VK has good food and service, I am not critizing that.

[thinkxingu]

That could be, but any restaurant that refuses credit cards is losing 25-30% in business.
There is no doubt that VK has good food and service, I am not critizing that.
I think they should accept CCs, too, but VK simply couldn't handle 25% more business, anyway. I don't think I've ever not waited, which is why we don't go there much. And it's not always been because of customers.

Sent from my XT1528 using Tapatalk

[wifi]

That could be, but any restaurant that refuses credit cards is losing 25-30% in business.
There is no doubt that VK has good food and service, I am not critizing that.

I'd rather they keep it as they are, so the line is 30% shorter :)

[Rusty]

Customers who pay with a credit card will spend more money on their meal, servers get bigger tips, etc...:D

[TiltonBB]

That could be, but any restaurant that refuses credit cards is losing 25-30% in business.
There is no doubt that VK has good food and service, I am not critizing that.

Can you please cite the source of the information that the restaurant is losing 25 - 30% of it's business?

Also, please cite the source of the information that "Customers who pay with a credit card will spend more money on their meal, servers get bigger tips, etc"

I am just wondering how you know these things.

[Rusty]

IMO A place that doesn't take cards is not good, but a place that doesn't take cards and has an ATM right outside—that's just straight up evil. It's like "thanks for patronizing our establishment, let me kick you in your soft spot on the way out!"

The 25-30% that I stated could even be higher.

[NonVoting Taxpayer]

I find all of this very amusing. If the owner doesn't want to take credit cards, sorry, but it's his business decision. I'll say what Samiam can't as a business owner. TAKE YOUR PLASTIC SOMEWHERE ELSE as there are many who don't mind payng cash. It doesn't sound like his business is hurting so why would he change and pay money to banks in the form of a 1% - 3% service charge?
I'm sure if he opened up on Saturday and no one showed up he would rethink his business model but it doesn't look like he needs to do that.
Samiam is actually telling all of you who for one reason or another won't carry cash to go to the ATM outside and you pay the service charge out of your pocket. To me that is a great business decision on his part. He doesn't have to raise the price of meals to his cash paying customers and those who like to pay by plastic (and think the prices should be increased to pay bank fees) can pay more as has been mentioned above. So what's the problem?

[SAB1]

Funny stuff here. VK is great food, no doubt. Cant even come close to a breakfast like that in Wolfeboro. I don't mind having to spend cash at all but......I gotta agree with Rusty here. The world runs on credit these days and there are definitely folks that don't eat there because they don't take credit. The younger generation coming along is very different from the one that raised them. I've got 2 kids in their 20's and all credit and debit cards, never cash. They, VK, have plenty of business from what I see when I'm in there and agree it is their decision for sure.

[Rusty]

I find all of this very amusing. If the owner doesn't want to take credit cards, sorry, but it's his business decision. I'll say what Samiam can't as a business owner. TAKE YOUR PLASTIC SOMEWHERE ELSE as there are many who don't mind payng cash. It doesn't sound like his business is hurting so why would he change and pay money to banks in the form of a 1% - 3% service charge?
I'm sure if he opened up on Saturday and no one showed up he would rethink his business model but it doesn't look like he needs to do that.
Samiam is actually telling all of you who for one reason or another won't carry cash to go to the ATM outside and you pay the service charge out of your pocket. To me that is a great business decision on his part. He doesn't have to raise the price of meals to his cash paying customers and those who like to pay by plastic (and think the prices should be increased to pay bank fees) can pay more as has been mentioned above. So what's the problem?

I agree with all that you have said, I was talking about businesses in general and some businesses like VK seem to be doing a booming business.

With todays technology it's nice to see that some businesses can survive without using what is available.

[Major]

The younger generation coming along is very different from the one that raised them. I've got 2 kids in their 20's and all credit and debit cards, never cash.

I work in Boston, and go out to lunch nearly every day. When I buy lunch and offer cash, the clerks, who are usually in their 20s, look at me like I have two heads. Kids (30 and under) NEVER carry cash. So while the model works now for VK, at some point it will have to change. The market will demand it.

[SAMIAM]

I work in Boston, and go out to lunch nearly every day. When I buy lunch and offer cash, the clerks, who are usually in their 20s, look at me like I have two heads. Kids (30 and under) NEVER carry cash. So while the model works now for VK, at some point it will have to change. The market will demand it.
Hate to admit it but I think you're right.People that know us don't mind at all but people who are traveling expect to use plastic.Believe me,it's been a hot topic of conversation around here.

[SIKSUKR]

My local favorite pizza place is cash only also.I now almost never have cash and use a debit card.Has it stopped me from going there?No but for a while they didn't have ATM at their location and none were close to me.I did get food elsewhere a few times for that reason.Think of the VK as a hot dog cart or the like where most likely you use cash there also.

[Crusty]

I occasionally eat at the Waffle House, a regional chain. They are open 24/7, are noted for their friendly atmosphere, good prices, and good food. Although primarily a breakfast place, they also serve non-breakfast fare. They opened their first restaurant in 1955 and grew to 1,500 locations by 2006.

I bring this up because, until 2006, they were a cash-only business.

They were obviously successful when folks had to hit an (offsite) ATM before coming in. I can attest that the locations I've visited were full of well-fed people with change in their pockets. However, when demographics started to affect their bottom line, Waffle House made the decision to accept plastic. They made the necessary price adjustments (to give the banks' their cut) and continued on. I still go there and, strangely, it's the only place where I still pay with cash.

My point is that the Village Kitchen is successful in their current model. I'm sure that they have made a few changes over the years to their menu, procedures, and equipment. If and when it makes sense for them to accept plastic, I'm sure they will make whatever adjustments are required and continue as a successful venture.

Armchair restauranteurs who insist on telling successful restaurant owners what they're doing wrong, well, it seems a bit presumptuous.

[Newbiesaukee]

It's not presumptuous, it's the Internet.:)

[brk-lnt]

Armchair restauranteurs who insist on telling successful restaurant owners what they're doing wrong, well, it seems a bit presumptuous.

Some of us here have actual business experience...

Obviously what the VK is doing today is working out well for them, but that doesn't mean it will last forever and it's usually advantageous, in any business, to adapt with (or slightly ahead of) your core customer demographic.

I've worked with a lot of small businesses who think that accepting credit cards is going to cut into their bottom line or otherwise have some measurable negative effect. Usually this is not true (exceptions being when your median ticket is less than $10 or for some reason you would be highly prone to false charge-backs).

In most cases accepting payments via credit card speeds the overall payment flow, gets your money in the bank quicker (no waiting for checks to clear) reduces employee risk of having to take cash deposits to the bank, reduces chances of employee theft or cash mis-counts, and increases your average ticket (this varies depending on the business).

I don't work for a credit card company, and I have no vested interest in the VK. But if they have chosen not to accept credit cards for urban-legendish reasons it makes sense to point out the other side of the argument (IMO).

At this point they might as well look past just credit cards and look at NFC/contactless payment options as well (since contactless credit card terminals will be the requirement for credit-card readers next year anyway).

[Shreddy]

I've stated my opinion before that I'll rummage whatever crevices I need to find quarters or any other change if I am short on cash for a farmer's breakfast. No, I won't use the ATM because the surcharge and the ADDITIONAL surcharge by my own bank (haven't done this in years but it used to be like $3).

Regardless, to agree with some others, I am the younger generation and no we don't like cash. In all honesty, you guys think accepting plastic is the issue but lets be honest for a second. I barely even use plastic anymore. Coffee in the morning at Sbux or Dunkin I use my app, that is linked to my card./account with an auto reload from paypal. Out to lunch? Most of the establishments, including my building, accept LevelUp which is an app paying service that is linked to my card. Pickup the dinner tab for me and a friend? No big deal, just Venmo me what you owe. I need a ride? Uber or Lyft are both on my phone and linked directly to my accounts. Not going to try and explain these upgrades in technology but learn about it. If you want change, then make it realistic and get with the times.

With that said, all you people looking for them to accept plastic are far behind the times. Funny how that works huh?

[VitaBene]

Hate to admit it but I think you're right.People that know us don't mind at all but people who are traveling expect to use plastic.Believe me,it's been a hot topic of conversation around here.

Yeah it is- I was in for lunch and was partly responsible for winding Rhonda up!

[Tired of Waiting]

I agree with all that you have said, I was talking about businesses in general and some businesses like VK seem to be doing a booming business.

With todays technology it's nice to see that some businesses can survive without using what is available.

If it's nice to see then why are you complaining about how VK is doing business?

ToW

[Rusty]

.Think of the VK as a hot dog cart or the like where most likely you cash there also.

I'll remember that. :D

[SAMIAM]

I've stated my opinion before that I'll rummage whatever crevices I need to find quarters or any other change if I am short on cash for a farmer's breakfast. No, I won't use the ATM because the surcharge and the ADDITIONAL surcharge by my own bank (haven't done this in years but it used to be like $3).

Regardless, to agree with some others, I am the younger generation and no we don't like cash. In all honesty, you guys think accepting plastic is the issue but lets be honest for a second. I barely even use plastic anymore. Coffee in the morning at Sbux or Dunkin I use my app, that is linked to my card./account with an auto reload from paypal. Out to lunch? Most of the establishments, including my building, accept LevelUp which is an app paying service that is linked to my card. Pickup the dinner tab for me and a friend? No big deal, just Venmo me what you owe. I need a ride? Uber or Lyft are both on my phone and linked directly to my accounts. Not going to try and explain these upgrades in technology but learn about it. If you want change, then make it realistic and get with the times.

With that said, all you people looking for them to accept plastic are far behind the times. Funny how that works huh?

I'm definately hearing what you're saying.....I believe there are no fee's when you pay with your phone app so when the time comes for us to move into the 21st century there might be enough of folks like you to offset the credit card fee's.

[Shreddy]

I'm definately hearing what you're saying.....I believe there are no fee's when you pay with your phone app so when the time comes for us to move into the 21st century there might be enough of folks like you to offset the credit card fee's.

I'm not going to stop coming in regardless of whatever you do. But, with that said, all the OLD TIMERS that think plastic is the issue are far behind the times. Thank you for hearing me here! I think it would be a great step in the forward direction....WHEN you're ready to step into the 21st century that is. In the meantime, cash it is for me!

[tis]

It's almost scary how fast things are changing. You will just change to plastic, Sam and they won't be doing it any more. It will all be off the phone. Can you keep up?? :laugh:

[wifi]

Only thing left is earning the money to pay all those charges :)

[Orion]

It's almost scary how fast things are changing. You will just change to plastic, Sam and they won't be doing it any more. It will all be off the phone. Can you keep up?? :laugh:

tis, you're behind the times already.....we're paying with our watches now!
:laugh::laugh:

[tis]

Yep, see I forgot. I AM behind ALREADY! I just can't keep up!! :)

[dpg]

Major hit the nail right on the head and that's all I was trying to say about the "plastic" debate is that the market will demand it someday whether the current owner wants to make the change or not. You need to adapt and change with the times to survive. Sure people now don't mind paying cash because they have to. I'd be willing to bet (just my opinion) if the VK started taking plastic they would see a drastic switch and have at least 75% of customers paying that way. Even the "old timers" that have been eating there for years would pay this way. I'm fully aware losing my business once in awhile isn't going to close the place but I've more than once stopped at Buckeys for this very reason, I will not pay a fee to get at cash through an ATM. Again my business once in awhile means nothing but what if 20, 30 or 40 individuals and families are doing the same thing weekly. In the summer times that's probably very realistic. Some day the "old time" cash carrying payers will be gone then what? Maybe by then Samian will be retired and it will be the next owners burning platform. :D

[TiltonBB]

There is a huge percentage of the economy that is "underground"

"Estimates are that underground activity last year totaled as much as $2 trillion, according to a study by Edgar Feige, an economist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison."

Those people, some of whom work for cash, many who could not qualify for a credt card, will always exist. Many people deal in cash just so that their personal cash flow does not leave a paper trail. There was a former mayor of Boston who had no checking account and paid all his bills with cash or a Postal Money Order. That makes it pretty difficult for the IRS to see the whole picture.

Drug use is estimated to be a $60 billion a year business in the United States. As far as I know that is still a cash business.

I don't see a time in the future when we go to all plastic and paper money doesn't exist. For some people, that is all they have.

[Objective, Not PC]

We always seek value (see any of our other reviews).

Any idiot can spend a lot of money on overpriced, over-hyped food and defend their position by saying "you get what you pay for". And as we all know, simple platitudes like that are for the simple-minded. No, you do NOT have to pay a lot to get decent food or anything else for that matter. And so...

A simple, family-oriented restaurant. Not gourmet, but good. Varied menu. Pleasant servers.
The food is humble, not gourmet. The setting is plain and comfortable, not exotic The portions are good-sized.

And...very comfortably-priced. We never regret what we paid and do not feel victimized as we do with some other restaurants where they have an over-inflated sense of their worth or quality.

We enjoy our visits here and will return. More places should be like this one. (The Bradford Bakery / Restaurant is another of similar ilk.)

This is, as always, just our opinion. Do your own research, form your own opinion.

[phoenix]

yep Friday's haddock is the best

[Outdoorsman]

We always seek value (see any of our other reviews).



Which name were you using for your prior reviews? The account you are now using only has this one post.

[dpg]

What's a bitcoin??? :confused:

[Winnisquamer]

What's a bitcoin??? :confused:


http://bfy.tw/2VOz Monopoly money ahaha

[dpg]

VK just refuses to cave and take a Debit/Credit card. :D

[Pineedles]

Bob and Sammie, keep doing what works for you.:D

[Mr. V]

Any idiot can spend a lot of money on overpriced, over-hyped food and defend their position by saying "you get what you pay for". And as we all know, simple platitudes like that are for the simple-minded.

I get a much better meal by paying the higher cost charged by a premier steak house than by getting a ten dollar meal at a budget steakhouse.

Same thing holds true with Italian food.

Those without the ability to discern quality had best relegate themselves to dining on "simple meals."

[secondcurve]

Bob and Sammie, keep doing what works for you.:D

No problem. The rest of us W2 stiffs will handle paying the taxes. But I'm sure VK's motivation for not taking plastic is to avoid the credit card fees.

[rsmlp]

No problem. The rest of us W2 stiffs will handle paying the taxes. But I'm sure VK's motivation for not taking plastic is to avoid the credit card fees.

Credit card fees on master card or visa are less than 2%, hardly reason for not accepting them given their convenience. That said, we remain big VK fans.

[Charlie T]

Credit card fees on master card or visa are less than 2%, hardly reason for not accepting them given their convenience. That said, we remain big VK fans.

I have to disagree with your 2% fee statement. As a business owner I see these fees every month. The fee structure varies with the card Issuer (MC, Visa, AMX, Dis.) and the style of rewards that the card offers. It is even different for a business , personal, or govt. card. Yes the merchant is helping the credit card company underwrite your rewards in the form of a higher "merchant discount fee". I've seen total card discounts vary from 2% to almost 5% depending on the card, a 2% total discount is almost never the case 3-1/4 to 4% is more the norm when you add all the fees up.

I don't blame VK for their reluctance to accept cards. I don't think anyone would care to just give away up to 5% of their income to with no real return on that investment. If VK has lines out the door during peak hours the lack of CCd acceptance can't be hurting their business volume to a great extent. Good for them. I wish I didn't need to accept cards, I could put the savings into something with a return to my business.

[patman]

Which name were you using for your prior reviews? The account you are now using only has this one post.

I'm guessing that refers to their other tripadvisor reviews:

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g46168-d599822-r235055007-Village_Kitchen-Moultonborough_New_Hampshire.html

[Lakeboater]

Customers who pay with a credit card will spend more money on their meal, servers get bigger tips, etc...:D
Pretty sure that wait staff and bartenders prefer to be tipped in cash not on a credit card. We always tip good service with cash even if we are paying for our meal with a cc.

[rsmlp]

I have to disagree with your 2% fee statement. As a business owner I see these fees every month. The fee structure varies with the card Issuer (MC, Visa, AMX, Dis.) and the style of rewards that the card offers. It is even different for a business , personal, or govt. card. Yes the merchant is helping the credit card company underwrite your rewards in the form of a higher "merchant discount fee". I've seen total card discounts vary from 2% to almost 5% depending on the card, a 2% total discount is almost never the case 3-1/4 to 4% is more the norm when you add all the fees up.

I don't blame VK for their reluctance to accept cards. I don't think anyone would care to just give away up to 5% of their income to with no real return on that investment. If VK has lines out the door during peak hours the lack of CCd acceptance can't be hurting their business volume to a great extent. Good for them. I wish I didn't need to accept cards, I could put the savings into something with a return to my business.

99% of restaurants accept cc's. To not accept them is anachronistic and frankly bad business.

[Miss Theresa]

I make no apologies for my identity, thus the Miss Theresa screen name. Anyway, my family moved to Moultonboro from lil 'ol Rumney, NH and built the home in the corner of Birch Lane and Rte 25. In addition to myself, out of my four kids, three of the four have worked at the VK (Jen was busy apprenticing with Donna Love). My point is this, in my humble opinion, no place compares to the Village Kitchen! I remember eatting there before they moved to where they are now. The food and staff is inpeccable! Since I live in Ohio now, whenever I make it back home, a stop at the VK is second on my list - gotta make my daughter at Cup and Crumb number one!

[Charlie T]

99% of restaurants accept cc's. To not accept them is anachronistic and frankly bad business.

If you don't like their CCD policy then don't eat there. As I said, with lines out the door during peak times the lack of CCD acceptance is apparently not hurting them too much.

Some things you can't change no matter how much you bitch about it. As you say there are plenty of places that will accept your plastic. Please visit your favorite restaurant that accepts it as that will make the line shorter for those of us who can remember to stock our wallet with some green backs from time to time. Personally I use cash for just about all personal expenses, Call me old fashioned or Anachronistic if you wish but I think that an empty wallet telling me to stop spending is a good thing.

[Outdoorsman]

No problem. The rest of us W2 stiffs will handle paying the taxes. But I'm sure VK's motivation for not taking plastic is to avoid the credit card fees.

Everyone that dines out is required to pay the (9%) tax on meals. Not sure what you were trying to imply on that one.

*disclaimer* I do not own a business, just stating a fact

[camp guy]

WOW, if this thread gets any hotter I may just throw a piece of meat at it and let it cook itself.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year !! (guess what-- no charge, as in free!)

[TiltonBB]

It amazes me how many people want to express an opinion to tell someone with a very successful business how they should run it.

Obviously there have been some excellent decisions made by the owners to determine what works best for them, and their customers,in every aspect of their business. And, obviously, it works well for their substantial number of happy customers.

As has been said, if you don't like it don't go there.

[tis]

It amazes me how many people want to express an opinion to tell someone with a very successful business how they should run it.

Obviously there have been some excellent decisions made by the owners to determine what works best for them, and their customers,in every aspect of their business. And, obviously, it works well for their substantial number of happy customers.

As has been said, if you don't like it don't go there.


Perfectly said!!!!

[phoenix]

I agree 100% . The VC is one place that can keep going in all seasons. In the summer as people have said the line is out the door. samiam has a successful business and has an atm in the building if one needs cash. As yogi said" it is so crowded no one goes there any more " . I look forward to my first Friday night in the spring. And of course my first lobster roll at red hill

[rsmlp]

If you don't like their CCD policy then don't eat there. As I said, with lines out the door during peak times the lack of CCD acceptance is apparently not hurting them too much.

Some things you can't change no matter how much you bitch about it. As you say there are plenty of places that will accept your plastic. Please visit your favorite restaurant that accepts it as that will make the line shorter for those of us who can remember to stock our wallet with some green backs from time to time. Personally I use cash for just about all personal expenses, Call me old fashioned or Anachronistic if you wish but I think that an empty wallet telling me to stop spending is a good thing.

OK, well I suppose I earned that.

I want to reiterate that we LOVE VK and support it. We and our five kids have been to VK literally dozens of times and never been disappointed. Especially love the Wednesday night turkey dinner which is crazy good and inexpensive and will continue to frequent VK regardless of their payment policy. Gear down people and have a Merry Chrsitmas!

[gtagrip]

I agree 100% . The VC is one place that can keep going in all seasons. In the summer as people have said the line is out the door. samiam has a successful business and has an atm in the building if one needs cash. As yogi said" it is so crowded no one goes there any more " . I look forward to my first Friday night in the spring. And of course my first lobster roll at red hill

I like the VK and samiam. However, generally speaking I usually do not patronize a business that does not accept CC/debit cards. I find it to be a inconvenience especially since I normally if ever carry cash on me.

And for having an atm in a establishment, that's great, however, they will charge up to $3.00 per transaction! So, to use cash in that establishment if I do not have any on me, it's going to cost an additional $3.00 to eat there.

[thinkxingu]

I cannot for the life of me understand why this thread is still going on. VK chooses to do business in a certain way. That choice is paying dividends, so there's no reason to change. If you don't like the choices they make, DON'T EAT THERE.

Sent from my XT1528 using Tapatalk

[tummyman]

We eat there all the time. Super place, great food, terrific folks. And we have no issue with the cash policy. However, they do have a great alternative if you do not have cash or do not want to use the ATM...just write a check. We just bring a check along when we are going there. Never had an issue. We leave a cash tip and write a check for the bill, as we do not carry a lot of cash. Simple, costs nothing for us, and avoids the CC fee for VC. Folks, there are always options. Let these people run their successful business the way they want. No need to argue or expend all these words...just move on elsewhere if you do not like what any business has as a policy. I hope they keep their present terms and keep prices low for the folks that utilize this facility. Lots of folks on fixed incomes eat there that have little extra to pay higher menu prices. VC is a great alternative for these folks to have a nice meal out occasionally.

[HomeWood]

How did any business survive when cash was the only payment option? I don't mind the cash policy at all. For those that won't go there because of it...us VK fans won't mind getting a seat sooner.

[VitaBene]

OK, well I suppose I earned that.

Especially love the Wednesday night turkey dinner which is crazy good and inexpensive

Shhhh...:) really though, it is really really good- I get it to go many Wed nights!

[GusMan]

I don't know SAMIAM, but *love* the VK (I've only been for breakfast).

I completely understand the disadvantage of using the on premises ATM vs a credit card. Nobody likes to pay additional fees. However, it is this very same reason (among others I'd imagine) that the VK chooses not to accept credit cards.... it would shift the fee burden from the consumer to the business that already operates on such slim profit margins.

Now, I would guess that with a high end fancy restaurant with guest checks averaging many times what the VK averages... it would be easier to absorb such fees as part off doing business.

Not that I have any experience in the restaurant business... other than patronage that is!

See you at the VK in the spring... cash in hand!

Cheers...

Gusman

[gillygirl]

For those who have been there, what's your favorite meal?

[tummyman]

For starters, Seth and team make a terrific clam chowder and lobster bisque/lobster chowder. It is not on the menu every night, but when it is, it cannot be beat. For entree's.....Turkey on Wednesday night, Prime Rib on Saturday, Turkey Clubs, English Style Fish and Chips, Friday Fish Fry, Scallop dinner, etc. etc .etc. Get the drift....it is ALL good !!!!! And do not miss the butternut squash as a veggie. :liplick:

[Newbiesaukee]

We are more breakfast eaters. Hard to pick a favorite but the home fries are superlative ( and they taste good, too). And second the butternut squash.

[phoenix]

Grilled haddock on Fridays only

[Nagigator]

Second Newbiesaukee. Best home fries on the planet.

[brk-lnt]

While we're discussing this, I really think that VK would do better with a sushi/Mexican kind of fusion menu.

[Acrossamerica]

Is there not a law against beating dead horses.

Besides it must be time to begin asking the new owner of the Woodshed if he will be bringing back the staff, menu and prices from 20 years ago so those who go once a year for a "special" occasion will feel at home.

Or maybe we can have a discussion about how important it will be for the second new operator at Sandy Point to never veer from the original menu and always give huge portions for no increase in price.

[jimkberry]

Now that the original topic of this thread has, well - you know... I have to say the biggest takeaway from it for me has been that people actually pay ATM fees - and don't get reimbursed by their banks/credit unions.

-jim

[gtagrip]

I don't know SAMIAM, but *love* the VK (I've only been for breakfast).

I completely understand the disadvantage of using the on premises ATM vs a credit card. Nobody likes to pay additional fees. However, it is this very same reason (among others I'd imagine) that the VK chooses not to accept credit cards.... it would shift the fee burden from the consumer to the business that already operates on such slim profit margins.

Now, I would guess that with a high end fancy restaurant with guest checks averaging many times what the VK averages... it would be easier to absorb such fees as part off doing business.

Not that I have any experience in the restaurant business... other than patronage that is!

See you at the VK in the spring... cash in hand!

Cheers...

Gusman

My point is, many people will not go and patronize a restaurant because it is cash only and may pose a inconvenience for some.
If I have to take $20.00 out of the ATM it is going to cost me $3.00 to do so. If a restaurant accepts CC's at 0.04% that same $20.00 costs them $0.80. If I were a restaurant owner, I would rather pay $0.80 vs. losing out on $19.20.

[thinkxingu]

My point is, many people will not go and patronize a restaurant because it is cash only and may pose a inconvenience for some.
If I have to take $20.00 out of the ATM it is going to cost me $3.00 to do so. If a restaurant accepts CC's at 0.04% that same $20.00 costs them $0.80. If I were a restaurant owner, I would rather pay $0.80 vs. losing out on $19.20.
That's the thing--at this point lines are out the door and there's rarely a slow day, which means they're NOT losing $19.20.

Sent from my XT1528 using Tapatalk

[Winnisquamer]

That's the thing--at this point lines are out the door and there's rarely a slow day, which means they're NOT losing $19.20.

Sent from my XT1528 using Tapatalk

Although they may not be losing that $19.20 they are technically losing it as an opportunity cost. At that point though you're arguing business economics which is pointless on this forum unless you own this place.

Say the business holds 10 tables and those 10 tables are occupied 24/7 or to 100% of their capacity. Do you as the business owner say ok I'm happy these 10 seats are always full or do you look to expand to 15 tables and make sure 15 tables are always full? Sure there is better answers for making more money and better answers to whether or not as the business owner you really need it.

So if anything for me a place that full all the time really isn't that appealing. Now since I have never been there before like a barber shop seeing 10 people waiting inside doesn't scream come in we have great food or give great haircuts. To me it screams ill be waiting an hour or so. Some people don't mind a wait but I personally do.

On a side note I am hungry, where is this place so I can try it now?

[Bigstan]

That's the thing--at this point lines are out the door and there's rarely a slow day, which means they're NOT losing $19.20.

Sent from my XT1528 using Tapatalk

Of course they are. You can certainly argue that they don't care as they have a line consistently, but the fact remains that the line is xxx number of people less than it could be.

But the real question is - who cares at this point? They are aware, it's not going to change, and those of us that don't normally carry cash will continue to not go the times we don't have cash. Put another way, it is what it is......accept it already.

[Billy Bob]

Lets correct one thing .
They have a line out the door on Saturday and Sunday in the summer and some of the spring and fall weekends , short of that its no problem to get in and in the winter the turn rate is probably nothing to get excited about .
The owner probably does just fine for himself.

The food is " as expected " just good home style stuff but nothing to get all hot about or drive 10 miles for . Its served on those plates they use in schools .

The credit card is just a side note and we all know that "cash business " and not paying all your taxes go together , I AM NOT SAYING ANYONE IS NOT PAYING THEIR TAXES , but just think about it .

[Pineedles]

I think you are out of line Billy Bob. You state that cash businesses and not paying all your taxes go together. Then you make a disclaimer but imply that by thinking about your statement we should conclude that the VK being a cash business doesn't pay all its taxes. You cant have it both ways. You owe the VK an apology and should delete that part of your post.

[phoenix]

I guess this will never end and gets more absurd as we go on . Samiam thanks for staying out of this. You are a true professional who runs a great restaurant the way you want to .

[camp guy]

I think phoenix has summed it up nicely, and I think it is about time to put this thread to rest. Good night!

[tis]

I agree. It amazes me how some people feel the need to look at the negative on here.

[TiltonBB]

Lets correct one thing .
They have a line out the door on Saturday and Sunday in the summer and some of the spring and fall weekends , short of that its no problem to get in and in the winter the turn rate is probably nothing to get excited about .
The owner probably does just fine for himself.

The food is " as expected " just good home style stuff but nothing to get all hot about or drive 10 miles for . Its served on those plates they use in schools .

The credit card is just a side note and we all know that "cash business " and not paying all your taxes go together , I AM NOT SAYING ANYONE IS NOT PAYING THEIR TAXES , but just think about it .

I disagree with most everything in your post. The food is great, the prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and very competent. Many people obviously drive a lot more than 10 miles, and go there often, that explains the busy days.

Most restaurant businesses are on a Pont of Sale system to make things run more efficiently, to track costs, and to prevent employee theft among other things. Efficient restaurants track every meal cost right down to cents (or fractions) for salt and pepper. With today's computerized systems it is almost impossible to hide income.

In addition to that, the IRS has a lot of statistical data that tells them based on your costs what your income is. For example: If you own a coin-op laundry the IRS will calculate your income using your utility bills.

The Village Kitchen is a great stop for many people, and it should be.

[Charlie T]

I think you are out of line Billy Bob. You state that cash businesses and not paying all your taxes go together. Then you make a disclaimer but imply that by thinking about your statement we should conclude that the VK being a cash business doesn't pay all its taxes. You cant have it both ways. You owe the VK an apology and should delete that part of your post.

I totally agree. For some reason some people think that everyone who owns a business is making ton's of money and they are stepping on people or cheating someone along the way. The owners of the VK appear to be hard working people who put in a lot of hours working hard and provide a product that many people want at a price they are willing to pay. This does not make them crooks or tax cheats and does not give someone on the internet the excuse or right to accuse them of being so!

Lets stop the BS with the unfounded accusations, those individuals who are making them are only making an ass out of themselves. What can you possibly have to gain by accusing or inferring that someone is cheating on their taxes?

[exlakesregioner]

Have never put a restaurant meal on a credit card, call me old fashioned but if I can't pay cash for a meal I shouldn't be going out to eat.

[ITD]

Sorry you folks saying 2% isn't a big deal, run a business first and see what it all about before you make a statement like this. That 2% comes right off the top, right out of the profit. I have no idea what Sam's margins are like, but the restaurant is in a competitive area with several others nearby which has to figure into the prices he charges, charge too much and people move on.

Let's say at the end of the year Sam makes a 10% profit on his business using his cash model. If he converts to credit card payment and his customers all start charging their meals his 10% profit now becomes 8%, a 20% loss in income.

Also, 2% is a number that high volume users get for their service, I doubt VK does that level of business, Sam might end up paying 3 or 4 percent, which is a potential 30 to 40 percent loss in revenue if my 10% number is correct. There are also monthly fees usually imposed for CC service, such as a user fee and equipment rental fees, all that comes right off the top and eat into profit.

On top of that, I recently found out that tips given via CC have 39% taken off the top as payroll deductions for taxes here in Mass. (probably less in NH due to no state income tax, but maybe not, I don't know.) Now most of the servers I know are no where near in that income bracket, so they must wait until tax time to get the rest of their income returned to them from the IRS.

Bring some cash with you, it's not a big deal and well worth it for the value you get when you eat there.

You're in NH now, don't Mass. it up. :>) ( I love that saying.)

[SIKSUKR]

Have never put a restaurant meal on a credit card, call me old fashioned but if I can't pay cash for a meal I shouldn't be going out to eat.

Welcome to 2015.I almost never have cash and put 99% of my purchases on my debit card which is my checking account.No fees just way more convienent than making sure I have cash in my pocket.I wont be spending something I dont have which is your reasoning.You can still be old fashioned in a todays kind of way without using a credit card.A debit account is really not different for you except a lot more friendly.:laugh:

[TiltonBB]

Welcome to 2015.I almost never have cash and put 99% of my purchases on my debit card which is my checking account.No fees just way more convienent than making sure I have cash in my pocket.I wont be spending something I dont have which is your reasoning.You can still be old fashioned in a todays kind of way without using a credit card.A debit account is really not different for you except a lot more friendly.:laugh:
Yes but.............It is not quite as friendly to the waitresses who prefer cash tips to having to wait for the employer to do the bookeeping and cut them a payroll check. Many waitstaff live day to day and anything they can put in their pocket right away helps the cause. It might even pay for the babysitter while they work!

[Winnisquamer]

Question? So our whole lives we have been taught to watch how we spend our money, but now we have to watch how we spend our money again so the method of delivery for the people who are employed by the people taking said money for a service can be pleased with how it is delivered to their pockets?

Majority of us "normal" Americans are living paycheck to paycheck these days anyways! My student loans for my undergraduate degrees alone would cover some peoples mortgages. I don't want to wait till next Friday for my employer to do the book keeping either but such is life. So I smartly (really not that smart, common sense actually) save my money so I have enough to last me until the next paycheck. I think it was a class in high school called surviving basic life as an adult.

Could totally care less if they prefer cash or credit. Business owner can run it as they please, perks of owning your own business. To me food is food, if it's good which it seems like it is from this thread I'd eat there and pay cash or credit doesn't matter to me.

[SAMIAM]

Lets correct one thing .
They have a line out the door on Saturday and Sunday in the summer and some of the spring and fall weekends , short of that its no problem to get in and in the winter the turn rate is probably nothing to get excited about .
The owner probably does just fine for himself.

The food is " as expected " just good home style stuff but nothing to get all hot about or drive 10 miles for . Its served on those plates they use in schools .

The credit card is just a side note and we all know that "cash business " and not paying all your taxes go together , I AM NOT SAYING ANYONE IS NOT PAYING THEIR TAXES , but just think about it .

Didn't want to make a post on this topic but I did want to reply to Billy Bobs thought that being a cash business lets us be loose and easy with our taxes.
Not jumping on BB at all.....many people think that restaurants skim off a little mad money and they do have a good point about not taking cards.
We,and most other restaurants have a POS system (Point of Sales) Every order goes into kitchen and onto our central computer ..... our taxes are paid on the total sales.There is absolutely no way to manipulate or change any figures.
I've had random audits over the years,once by the IRS and once by NH Rooms & Meals and let me tell you that those guys know the business.They can tell from your check average,food cost and water consumption almost exactly what your sales should be.
Sorry about the credit cards.I know we could do a good deal more business if we took them and that day will come.
But for now....life is good.Mortgage paid,great crew,get to go to Florida in the winter when it's slow,able to keep prices reasonable (not planning an increase in 2016) Don't make a ton of money but enough to enjoy life.
Thanks for all the kind words and support.We love what we're doing.

[Mr. V]

And we have no issue with the cash policy. However, they do have a great alternative if you do not have cash or do not want to use the ATM...just write a check. We just bring a check along when we are going there.

Ask most millennials to write a check and they'll say "Huh?"

Many if not most young folks don't have checking accounts with paper checks, they use debit cards for most everything.

Paper checks and phones with land lines are going the way of the dodo bird.

[ishoot308]

Your a class act Sam!

Merry Christmas!

Dan

[gtagrip]

Question? So our whole lives we have been taught to watch how we spend our money, but now we have to watch how we spend our money again so the method of delivery for the people who are employed by the people taking said money for a service can be pleased with how it is delivered to their pockets?

Thank you! You took the words right out of my mouth! :emb:

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

Yes but.............It is not quite as friendly to the waitresses who prefer cash tips to having to wait for the employer to do the bookeeping and cut them a payroll check. Many waitstaff live day to day and anything they can put in their pocket right away helps the cause. It might even pay for the babysitter while they work!

My wife worked at TBones and was paid her tips in cash nightly, including credit card payment tips. Not sure if that's norm but I expect it is. My family owns a local restaurant here, in Laconia, and the tips are also paid in cash nightly.

[codeman671]

It is not uncommon for smaller breakfast places to be cash only. There are a few down here on the seacoast that I can think of that are. The Wooden Spoon in Somersworth, for instance has never taken cards.

Some of them do work the old fashioned way though, paper slips and no POS systems. Not saying they are hiding anything, but some people still do it manually.

I do think its a bit ridiculous not to take them. Since restaurants are a card swipe situation, not keyed in entries, the rates are cheaper. My business takes cards, sometimes in very large transactions, and we end up paying 2.5%+ because they are keyed entries. Swipes can be done as low as 1.6%.

Why not just bump the prices up a dime to cover it?

[SAMIAM]

Ask most millennials to write a check and they'll say "Huh?"

Many if not most young folks don't have checking accounts with paper checks, they use debit cards for most everything.

Paper checks and phones with land lines are going the way of the dodo bird.

You're right Mr V Everything is electronic with younger people.They even swipe their card for a purchase under $1.
We're thinking we'll have to make the change within a year or two.

[Winnisquamer]

One key thing for millennials and swiping cards is because with most cards out now you can get points or miles or cash back. Most kids see it as if I swipe X dollars I pay the same amount of money with a no interest card as handing over cash but I also get something else in return rather than a piece of paper with a total on it.

I've paid for a few flights using my card. So if I know I have a trip coming up I'm a cash all year guy but I'll swipe the card hard to get a discount. Why not?

Sadly overusing a card is also how some people get burned.

[HellRaZoR004]

I've tried to refrain from this post but here's a little perspective from someone under 30.

I rarely carry cash with me. When I need cash I go to an ATM and grab it, each transaction fee is credited to my account within 24hrs. Cash purchases are usually for items off craigslist but in general I pay EVERYTHING with a credit card. From travel expenses to buying a soda at the gas station. It's a lot more convenient for me.

AND, I make money doing it!!! In 2014 alone I received over $460 back in cash/statement credits. I expect to be well over that number this year. It's based on the 1-5% cash back that I receive each month from purchases with my credit card. So why would I pay cash for something when I can keep it in my account, gain interest on it, and get paid to use a free loan from the CC company?

This assumes you pay the statement balance in full every month!

I respect the VK's decision to not accept CC's, its certainly an inconvenience for some, but that is their choice. If I want something that badly, I'll suck it up and pay with cash as my only option.

[Acrossamerica]

AND, I make money doing it!!! In 2014 alone I received over $460 back in cash/statement credits. I expect to be well over that number this year. It's based on the 1-5% cash back that I receive each month from purchases with my credit card. So why would I pay cash for something when I can keep it in my account, gain interest on it, and get paid to use a free loan from the CC company?

.
I wonder if you have any idea where that money "you make" comes from? Contrary to what a lot of young people think, it does not just happen. That 1-5% pay back is taken out of the merchants pocket in the form of CC fees.

Use a Debit card and they are charged one fee, use a straight CC card and it is a different amount, use the pay back cards and the fees jump up to cover the cost of the paybacks. And in addition to the fees there is a processing machine that must be bought and updated every few years and any merchant that has not invested in the new "Dip" card machines is now liable for any fraud on that card not the CC company or the bank.

So as you pat your self on the back for "earning" 1-5% on your purchases you are really paying for that and possibly a bit more to cover the aggravation factor of being in business and dealing with thousands of customers who "know" so much better how to run everyone else's business.

[ITD]

I wonder if you have any idea where that money "you make" comes from? Contrary to what a lot of young people think, it does not just happen. That 1-5% pay back is taken out of the merchants pocket in the form of CC fees.

Use a Debit card and they are charged one fee, use a straight CC card and it is a different amount, use the pay back cards and the fees jump up to cover the cost of the paybacks. And in addition to the fees there is a processing machine that must be bought and updated every few years and any merchant that has not invested in the new "Dip" card machines is now liable for any fraud on that card not the CC company or the bank.

So as you pat your self on the back for "earning" 1-5% on your purchases you are really paying for that and possibly a bit more to cover the aggravation factor of being in business and dealing with thousands of customers who "know" so much better how to run everyone else's business.

I'll go one step further, the merchant generally can't absorb those fees and pass them along to the customer. So you pay your own bonus.

[TiltonBB]

That seems to be the answer.

The Village Kitchen does a great job of providing good meals at fair prices. If we were to assume that there was a 10% profit in that business it would seem like a poor decision to give up a substantial percentage of that to credit card fees.

A $40 check which would have had a $4 profit changes to a $2.60 profit when someone uses a card where the owner pays a 4% fee. Enjoy your credit card perks but remember that those benefits come at a cost to the seller and that money has to come from somewhere. When you dine at restaurants that accept credit cards remember that you are paying extra for that.

For one, I appreciate the good food and fair prices at the Village Kitchen and would rather pay cash than see them go up on their prices to compensate for credit card fees.

[HellRaZoR004]

I wonder if you have any idea where that money "you make" comes from? Contrary to what a lot of young people think, it does not just happen. That 1-5% pay back is taken out of the merchants pocket in the form of CC fees.

Use a Debit card and they are charged one fee, use a straight CC card and it is a different amount, use the pay back cards and the fees jump up to cover the cost of the paybacks. And in addition to the fees there is a processing machine that must be bought and updated every few years and any merchant that has not invested in the new "Dip" card machines is now liable for any fraud on that card not the CC company or the bank.

So as you pat your self on the back for "earning" 1-5% on your purchases you are really paying for that and possibly a bit more to cover the aggravation factor of being in business and dealing with thousands of customers who "know" so much better how to run everyone else's business.

Using a debit card in today's world isn't very smart, or safe. Why would you use something directly linked to your account where cash is immediately gone. If that's stolen now you have the hassle of making sure it is returned...with a credit card you have a lot more protection.

I understand the concept that each method has different fees, it's up to the business to accept that as part of doing business. Not me, not you, the business. If I use my card and get the incentives then perhaps the cost of goods will reflect that. But that's life, and what you chose to do is up to you.

[brk-lnt]

So as you pat your self on the back for "earning" 1-5% on your purchases you are really paying for that and possibly a bit more to cover the aggravation factor of being in business and dealing with thousands of customers who "know" so much better how to run everyone else's business.

Technically, no.

Not everyone has a "points" card, some have regular cards, some people pay with cash. For the most part, the business charges the same amount to every customer (yes, we've all seen the RARE cases of the small business that has a 2% cash discount).

So in reality the people who are NOT using points cards, or are paying with cash are co-funding the rewards received by the points-card holders. Everyone is paying the same price, and the business has to set their prices to cover a worst-case payment scenario (higher-fee points card user).

For me personally, I prefer to put everything on the credit card, even the $2.00 transactions. It's mostly convenience and spending tracking. For something like eating out (especially a breakfast or lunch) it's a spontaneous decision for the wife and I. We'll be out doing other things, decide to get something to eat, and find a local spot. I don't like going in and having to worry about if I have enough cash on hand to cover the bill+tip, or having a meal eat up a decent amount of my pocket cash and then having to go to the bank at some point. The bigger benefit of using a card is spending tracking. I can put $200 in my pocket and it will seemingly "evaporate" if I'm paying for things in cash. $30 for lunch, $80 at the grocery store, $10 at Starbucks, and so on. A week later I'm out of money and struggling to remember what I spent it on. Put all that stuff on the card and it's easy to look back at the end of the month and have an overview of what our expenses were. The points stuff is a nice side-benefit, but I'd use credit cards over cash even without the rewards. However, since I do have a rewards card I should say "thank you" to all the cash-payers subsidizing it for me :)

[TiltonBB]

Technically, no.

Not everyone has a "points" card, some have regular cards, some people pay with cash. For the most part, the business charges the same amount to every customer (yes, we've all seen the RARE cases of the small business that has a 2% cash discount).

So in reality the people who are NOT using points cards, or are paying with cash are co-funding the rewards received by the points-card holders. Everyone is paying the same price, and the business has to set their prices to cover a worst-case payment scenario (higher-fee points card user).

For me personally, I prefer to put everything on the credit card, even the $2.00 transactions. It's mostly convenience and spending tracking. For something like eating out (especially a breakfast or lunch) it's a spontaneous decision for the wife and I. We'll be out doing other things, decide to get something to eat, and find a local spot. I don't like going in and having to worry about if I have enough cash on hand to cover the bill+tip, or having a meal eat up a decent amount of my pocket cash and then having to go to the bank at some point. The bigger benefit of using a card is spending tracking. I can put $200 in my pocket and it will seemingly "evaporate" if I'm paying for things in cash. $30 for lunch, $80 at the grocery store, $10 at Starbucks, and so on. A week later I'm out of money and struggling to remember what I spent it on. Put all that stuff on the card and it's easy to look back at the end of the month and have an overview of what our expenses were. The points stuff is a nice side-benefit, but I'd use credit cards over cash even without the rewards. However, since I do have a rewards card I should say "thank you" to all the cash-payers subsidizing it for me :)

$10 at Starbucks? I think I see the problem! I make Maxwell House at home! Excellent!

[secondcurve]

That seems to be the answer.

The Village Kitchen does a great job of providing good meals at fair prices. If we were to assume that there was a 10% profit in that business it would seem like a poor decision to give up a substantial percentage of that to credit card fees.

A $40 check which would have had a $4 profit changes to a $2.60 profit when someone uses a card where the owner pays a 4% fee. Enjoy your credit card perks but remember that those benefits come at a cost to the seller and that money has to come from somewhere. When you dine at restaurants that accept credit cards remember that you are paying extra for that.

For one, I appreciate the good food and fair prices at the Village Kitchen and would rather pay cash than see them go up on their prices to compensate for credit card fees.

I'm not saying this happens at the Village Kitchen. However, the maturity of the time small businesses refuse to take cash it is to hide some income from Uncle Sam. The avoidance of credit card fees is always the excuse always given but the real reason is so income can be under reported.

[TiltonBB]

I'm not saying this happens at the Village Kitchen. However, the maturity of the time small businesses refuse to take cash it is to hide some income from Uncle Sam. The avoidance of credit card fees is always the excuse always given but the real reason is so income can be under reported.

And you base this on what actual factual information? Have you audited someone's tax returns? Please cite specifics and give examples.

[Lakeboater]

I'm not saying this happens at the Village Kitchen. However, the maturity of the time small businesses refuse to take cash it is to hide some income from Uncle Sam. The avoidance of credit card fees is always the excuse always given but the real reason is so income can be under reported.

Huh? Me thinks you should edit!

[brk-lnt]

$10 at Starbucks? I think I see the problem! I make Maxwell House at home! Excellent!

I didn't say there was a problem, just that I like being able to track and manage my expenses (which is part of the reason why I can spend $10 at Starbucks without having to worry about it).

At Starbucks I'm usually getting some some of a latte or similar drink. If I want brewed coffee I'll usually try to find a Starbucks with a Clover machine, or a *good* local coffee shop.

If I'm making coffee at home, it won't be Maxwell house, it'll be fresh beans and a pour-over.

[jimkberry]

So I had to look up the "rewards cards cost more per transaction" thing for myself and was a bit surprised to see it is absolutely the case. What's more, corporate and government-issue cards cost even more.

Personally, I think not accepting CC's is kinda cool. What would be *really* cool, would stop any complaints from the younger crowd, and would be way cheaper, would be to accept Bitcoin.

Disclaimer: I'm 52, and not a Bitcoin fanboy, but I do work in the industry and get paid in BTC.

-jim

[Charlie T]

I'm not saying this happens at the Village Kitchen. However, the maturity of the time small businesses refuse to take cash it is to hide some income from Uncle Sam. The avoidance of credit card fees is always the excuse always given but the real reason is so income can be under reported.

Your little disclaimer means nothing, that is a Damn insulting comment. What is your problem?

[secondcurve]

Your little disclaimer means nothing, that is a Damn insulting comment. What is your problem?

Google "cash businesses and tax evasion" there will be a wealth of articles. I'm sorry but that is what I think when I see a cash only business. Again, some firms that take cash only pay ever last nickel of taxes. However, that isn't the norm. The below is a good overview.


There are two ways to underreport income. The first is to tell the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that you made less money that you did during the tax year; and the second is to claim more deductions, exemptions and tax credits than you really deserve. Underreporting of income is the single largest contributor to the tax gap, making it America's favorite form of tax evasion. More than 83 percent of the $450 billion tax gap, or $376 billion, is attributed to underreporting of income [source: Internal Revenue Service].
Who is most likely to underreport income to the IRS? According to the non-compliance statistics from 2006, individual filers -- not corporations -- are the biggest tax evaders, underreporting income by $235 billion, equal to 52 percent of the total tax gap [source: Internal Revenue Service]. Interestingly, the biggest culprits among individual filers are folks who own their own businesses. Underreporting of business income accounts for $122 billion missing from individual income tax returns, while non-business income -- normal wages and salary from a job -- only add to $68 billion of the tax gap [source: Internal Revenue Service].
Wage and salary employees are more likely to pay their full income tax bills because their earnings are regularly reported to the IRS by a third party: their employers. Employers are required to withhold Social Security and Medicare contributions from each employee paycheck and hand that money over to the feds throughout the year. When an employee receives a W-2 in January, he or she knows that the IRS receives an identical copy. That's why only 1 percent of wage and salary income was underreported in 2006, while folks with no third-party reporting requirement — like self-employed workers or sole proprietors of small businesses -- had a 56 percent underreporting rate [source: Sahadi].
Jobs that pay primarily in cash are ripe targets for tax evasion. The IRS estimates that waiters and waitresses underreport their cash tips by an average of 84 percent [source: Nolo]. Cash doesn't leave a paper trail -- check stubs, deposit slips, invoices and the like -- that can be tracked by IRS investigators. If an employer pays a worker "under the table" in cash, it means that the employer doesn't have to pay unemployment tax or payroll taxes for that employee, and the worker can easily get away with not paying income tax on those earnings.

[ApS]

In Europe, they're accustomed to government taxation and waste, so they use their cellphones for minor purchases:

"...The machine will then offer you a menu. You'll choose, say, a Diet Pepsi for 75 cents and enter a PIN (or the machine will recognize your telephone automatically), and out will tumble your soft drink..."
http://www.nytimes.com/2000/03/02/technology/will-that-be-cash-cell-phone-wireless-payment-systems-might-mean-dialing-inot.html?pagewanted=all

Pretty sure that wait staff and bartenders prefer to be tipped in cash not on a credit card. We always tip good service with cash even if we are paying for our meal with a cc.
I do the same. Let the wait staff decide what to do with their money. Some VK staff have driven daily from distances you wouldn't believe. :eek:

A happy crew (you'll notice) makes the dining experience much more enjoyable.

I'm not saying this happens at the Village Kitchen. However, the majority of the time small businesses refuse to take cash it is to hide some income from Uncle Sam. The avoidance of credit card fees is always the excuse always given but the real reason is so income can be under reported.
In these days of Trillion-dollar budgets, lessening the grip Uncle Sam has on the working poor is an act of patriotism.

.

[Charlie T]

Merry Christmas

[chipj29]

On top of that, I recently found out that tips given via CC have 39% taken off the top as payroll deductions for taxes here in Mass. (probably less in NH due to no state income tax, but maybe not, I don't know.) Now most of the servers I know are no where near in that income bracket, so they must wait until tax time to get the rest of their income returned to them from the IRS.


Every employee of every company is required to pay taxes based on their income. Servers at restaurants who receive a cash tip are no different.
The difference you are talking about is what the servers claim as income.
-If a customer gives them a cash tip, the IRS requires them to claim 100% of that. Some do, some don't. But that is the law.
-If a customer gives a credit card tip, there is documented proof of income, so it really has to be claimed.

The IRS knows approximately what a server makes in tips based on their sales. So if a server is not claiming 100% of their tips (cash or credit), chances are the IRS can figure it out fairly easily.

[Newbiesaukee]

Assuming the server actually gets the tip amount on the credit card.

This comment is totally not directed at VK, one of my favorite places on the Lake. I would pay in crops if they did not accept cash.

[secondcurve]

In Europe, they're accustomed to government taxation and waste, so they use their cellphones for minor purchases:




I do the same. Let the wait staff decide what to do with their money. Some VK staff have driven daily from distances you wouldn't believe. :eek:

A happy crew (you'll notice) makes the dining experience much more enjoyable.


In these days of Trillion-dollar budgets, lessening the grip Uncle Sam has on the working poor is an act of patriotism.

.

Your comment makes no sense. So if I have a long commute paying my taxes are optional? I simply don't understand why folks dealing in the cash based economy shouldn't pay taxes?

[wifi]

I think we need an "Argument forum" where you can just bash and nit pick to your hearts delight, and threads, such as this has become, can get moved there.

Mi gaud...

More often than not, these days, I hit "new posts" and see people asking things that are common sense, and others with obvious answers. I hope this isn't where the nanny world is headed, develop some self reliance, you learn things better this way.

/rant off

[brk-lnt]

I think we need an "Argument forum" where you can just bash and nit pick to your hearts delight, and threads, such as this has become, can get moved there.

I disagree, this is a stupid idea.

[Winnisquamer]

I think a lot of the disagreements I've seen on this forum since I joined was not neccessarily an I disagree with you personally thing but more of a generational thing in what people are use to. For this thread in particular besides for one of two bold assumptions of tax evasion by all cash businesses the older generations are baffled by using a credit card for a 10 dollar lunch sub purchase when the younger generation is saying why carry cash 24/7 when there's no need too.

That will never change in my opinion. People will always have outlandish opinions and if you don't want them voiced than the Internet in general is not for you.

I don't think we need an argument forum at all I think we need to realize not everyone is going to agree all the time. I also think one of the biggest problems on forums is you can't detect tone or sarcasm via the internet. So I'm sure some posts come off a little more offensive than they were intended to be.

[VitaBene]

There is a disagreements forum, called issues. Some forums refer to it as the burn barrel.

[dpg]

I disagree, this is a stupid idea.

Tell us what you really think. :D

[brk-lnt]

Tell us what you really think. :D

I already did. Can't you comprehend basic English? I'll bet you vote Democrat.

:D

[Acrossamerica]

And the dead horses keep piling up. May be time to call in animal abuse.

[brk-lnt]

And the dead horses keep piling up. May be time to call in animal abuse.

Or make mystery meatloaf.

[ITD]

Ok, everyone together now, "Kumbaya my Lord, Kumbaya"

[ITD]

Every employee of every company is required to pay taxes based on their income. Servers at restaurants who receive a cash tip are no different.
The difference you are talking about is what the servers claim as income.
-If a customer gives them a cash tip, the IRS requires them to claim 100% of that. Some do, some don't. But that is the law.
-If a customer gives a credit card tip, there is documented proof of income, so it really has to be claimed.

The IRS knows approximately what a server makes in tips based on their sales. So if a server is not claiming 100% of their tips (cash or credit), chances are the IRS can figure it out fairly easily.

I missed this. The point is that most servers will never be anywhere near the 39% tax bracket. Taking more than they owe is wrong.

[chipj29]

I missed this. The point is that most servers will never be anywhere near the 39% tax bracket. Taking more than they owe is wrong.
You get taxed on what you claim on your W2 form, based on the number of dependents.
I am not a server, but I get more taken out of my paycheck every week than I owe. When I do my taxes, I get a small refund because of that.
I have no idea what tax bracket I am in, nor does it matter, but I pay my fair share. So should servers, bartenders, hair stylists, and all tipped employees.

[Winnisquamer]

Correct me if I am wrong but I thought you had to make over 400k a year to be taxed 39%?

Cant remember from when I took accounting but I thought rule of thumb for a person filing single you were taxed something like this.

http://blogs-images.forbes.com/kellyphillipserb/files/2015/12/Single_rates_copy.jpg

Or jointlyhttp://blogs-images.forbes.com/kellyphillipserb/files/2015/10/MFJ_20161.jpg

Any accountants that can weigh in?

[drwamcross]

Winnisquammer...the tables are correct, so incremental income over the amounts shown ($400k +) is taxed at 39.6% but due to the graduated rates, up to that point, the total effective tax rate is around 28% on the income under the $400k figure.

[Acrossamerica]

My God this thread is like watching a ten car accident. You really don't want to see the carnage but still must have a look to see what has happened. In this case the carnage is reading too many posts by too many codgers (myself included) who have nothing else to do.

Surely there must be a different restaurant owner or subject that can be pulled apart by all of the experts on board.

[ITD]

You get taxed on what you claim on your W2 form, based on the number of dependents.
I am not a server, but I get more taken out of my paycheck every week than I owe. When I do my taxes, I get a small refund because of that.
I have no idea what tax bracket I am in, nor does it matter, but I pay my fair share. So should servers, bartenders, hair stylists, and all tipped employees.

Nice way to completely miss the point, have a nice day.

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

And the dead horses keep piling up. May be time to call in animal abuse.


http://i.giphy.com/KqLPb0IrGHwiY.gif

[ITD]

http://i.giphy.com/KqLPb0IrGHwiY.gif

Oh lord, kumbaya. Everybody now!!!

[thinkxingu]

I cannot for the life of me understand why this thread is still going on. VK chooses to do business in a certain way. That choice is paying dividends, so there's no reason to change. If you don't like the choices they make, DON'T EAT THERE.

Sent from my XT1528 using Tapatalk
This guy has it right.

Sent from my XT1528 using Tapatalk

[VitaBene]

All I know is that I am getting a turkey dinner at the VK tomorrow night... well, that and also that it is awesome!!

So please don't beat a dead turkey!

[secondcurve]

I cannot for the life of me understand why this thread is still going on. VK chooses to do business in a certain way. That choice is paying dividends, so there's no reason to change. If you don't like the choices they make, DON'T EAT THERE.

Sent from my XT1528 using Tapatalk

The point is that many, although not all, cash businesses are set up that way to avoid paying taxes. The reason this happens is there isn't a third party verification system like the W2 that is issued by most larger companies. When there isn't third party verification tax evasion soars and the folks who are paid via W2 wind up carrying the tax burden in the country. I chuckle every time I hear people complaining about the employees at Bain, the large banks such as JPM, etc. not paying there fair share of taxes. The fact is these employees are soaked in taxes.

[Winnigirl]

Oh good lord give it a rest already! You've made your point again and again and we get it.

I've never had the pleasure of eating at Village Kitchen but now it's on my list. Any business owner who manages to stay respectful in the face of this garbage is one whom I look forward to supporting.

[Happy Gourmand]

The point is that many, although not all, cash businesses are set up that way to avoid paying taxes. The reason this happens is there isn't a third party verification system like the W2 that is issued by most larger companies. When there isn't third party verification tax evasion soars and the folks who are paid via W2 wind up carrying the tax burden in the country. I chuckle every time I hear people complaining about the employees at Bain, the large banks such as JPM, etc. not paying there fair share of taxes. The fact is these employees are soaked in taxes.

You know this from personal experience?

[chipj29]

Nice way to completely miss the point, have a nice day.

I don't want to continue derailing this thread, but I can't let this slide.
Can you explain what your point is?

[ITD]

I don't want to continue derailing this thread, but I can't let this slide.
Can you explain what your point is?

Against my better judgement I'll respond. I think I've made my point quite clearly that most wait staff, especially in the lakes region, are in the lower, if not lowest tax brackets, some probably don't have to pay tax at all if they are part time. Yet they have the maximum tax withheld from tips, at least this is done in Massachusetts as I said before. That's an unnecessary burden, were everyone who worked required to have 39% of their wages withheld regardless of income level there would be a revolution.

You apparently think anyone complaining about anything regarding taxes is a scofflaw trying to get out of paying taxes, it's tiring and honestly, while I understand there are crooks out there, frankly they are few and far between. I prefer to give people the benefit of the doubt that they are honest, rather than assume all people who deal in cash are crooks and cheats.

The IRS and state tax people are quite adept at finding cheats and scofflaws and wringing what they owe out of them, unless of course, they are politically connected.

[brk-lnt]

Yet they have the maximum tax withheld from tips, at least this is done in Massachusetts as I said before. That's an unnecessary burden, were everyone who worked required to have 39% of their wages withheld regardless of income level there would be a revolution.



Based on IRS guidelines: https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc761.html it appears that tips should be taxed at the employees standard witholding rate, not at the 39% rate by default.

[TiltonBB]

I was wondering: Did you ever notice that after boating season when the weather gets cloudy and gray, and the temperature drops a lot, some people get cranky, judgmental and overly critical?

[pondguy]

I was wondering: Did you ever notice that after boating season when the weather gets cloudy and gray, and the temperature drops a lot, some people get cranky, judgmental and overly critical?

Yes, I have seen that. :rolleye2:

[baygo]

I was wondering: Did you ever notice that after boating season when the weather gets cloudy and gray, and the temperature drops a lot, some people get cranky, judgmental and overly critical?

If we had more snow we could jump on our sleds and head to VK for tasty country style cooking.

[jbolty]

I can't believe this thread is still going. It's lost all of its original value and should just go away

[ITD]

I can't believe this thread is still going. It's lost all of its original value and should just go away

I'm amazed at the number of people who want it to go away yet keep it going by posting in it. :confused:

[brk-lnt]

I'm amazed at the number of people who want it to go away yet keep it going by posting in it. :confused:

I agree. Those people are a scourge on the forum.

[Crusty]

I agree. Those people are a scourge on the forum.You make a really good point. Some people will post any unrelated item, just to keep the thread going. By the way, I recently saw a TV spot that was opposed to clubbing baby seals.

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

If we had more snow we could jump on our sleds and head to VK for tasty country style cooking.

That's a great idea...question, do they accept credit cards?