New York City’s self-styled “dine-and-dash diva” Pei Chung was arrested twice in less than 24 hours after hitting several upscale Manhattan restaurants, brazenly not paying her bill and openly mocking NYPD officers at the scene. Chung, 34, who has targeted more than ten top city eateries since October, allegedly posed as a food influencer and continued posting on social media even as she was detained.
Repeat Arrests and Escalating Drama
Chung’s latest pair of arrests came at Peter Luger Steak House and Francie in Brooklyn, where she lingered for hours, ordered expensive meals, packed food to go—and refused to pay almost $200 at one stop. Restaurant managers called police, who handcuffed her and led her out, only for her to return to the same restaurants days later. In each incident, witnesses say she snapped photos, joked with staff, and heckled officers as they arrived, boasting of her “foodie” exploits on Instagram.
Social Media Boasts and Police Response
The alleged scammer’s social media posts have attracted both notoriety and frustration among New York’s food community, with restaurant owners warning others to be vigilant of such influencer fraud. NYPD confirmed her repeated arrests and theft-of-service charges, urging local businesses to report similar incidents promptly. Chung reportedly used multiple aliases and continued filming herself as police confronted her in public.
Community Impact and Owner Reaction
Restaurateurs say the “dine-and-dash” trend is making it harder for small businesses already stretched thin by inflation. Many described Chung as well-dressed and confident, blending in until bills arrived. Business owners are calling for increased action against serial scammers and for support to protect neighborhood restaurants from losses and disruption caused by repeated fraud.