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Brooklyn Woman Arrested for Dine-and-Dash at Upscale Restaurants

A luxurious restaurant interior with diners at tables

Brooklyn, November 26, 2025

Pei Chung, a 34-year-old woman from Brooklyn, has been dubbed the ‘dine-and-dash diva’ after allegedly dining at upscale restaurants and leaving without paying. Since October, she is accused of skipping bills at at least 11 high-end eateries, including Peter Luger Steak House and Michelin-starred Francie. Besides facing theft charges, concerns have also arisen regarding her immigration status as she is reportedly facing deportation for overstaying her student visa. Currently in custody, Chung awaits further legal proceedings.

New York City – Pei Chung, a 34-year-old woman from Brooklyn, has been arrested multiple times for allegedly dining at upscale restaurants and leaving without paying. Known as the “dine-and-dash diva,” Chung is accused of visiting at least 11 high-end eateries in Brooklyn since October, ordering extensive meals, and then attempting to leave without settling the bill.

Chung’s dining spree included visits to renowned establishments such as Peter Luger Steak House, Francie, Lavender Lake, Meadowsweet, and Motorino Pizza. At Francie, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Williamsburg, she allegedly ordered a meal totaling $188 and then attempted to barter “exposure” for payment.

In October, at Peter Luger Steak House, Chung reportedly hid in the restroom after running up a $146 bill and later alluded to offering sexual favors instead of payment. Restaurant owners have expressed frustration over Chung’s actions, with one stating that it is only in New York City where someone like this becomes a folk hero.

Chung’s behavior has raised concerns about her immigration status as she is reportedly facing deportation proceedings due to overstaying her student visa. As of now, she remains in custody, awaiting further legal proceedings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is Pei Chung?

Pei Chung is a 34-year-old woman from Brooklyn, New York, known for allegedly dining at upscale restaurants and leaving without paying, earning her the nickname “dine-and-dash diva.

What restaurants has Pei Chung allegedly dined and dashed at?

Chung is accused of visiting at least 11 high-end eateries in Brooklyn since October, including Peter Luger Steak House, Francie, Lavender Lake, Meadowsweet, and Motorino Pizza.

What charges is Pei Chung facing?

Chung faces theft of services charges for allegedly leaving restaurants without paying for her meals. Additionally, she is reportedly facing deportation proceedings due to overstaying her student visa.

What have restaurant owners said about Pei Chung’s actions?

Restaurant owners have expressed frustration over Chung’s actions. One stated, “It’s only in New York City where someone like this becomes a folk hero.”

What is the current status of Pei Chung?

As of now, Chung remains in custody, awaiting further legal proceedings.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature Details
Accused Individual Pei Chung, 34-year-old woman from Brooklyn, New York
Alleged Actions Dined at upscale restaurants and left without paying, known as “dine-and-dash diva”
Number of Incidents At least 11 high-end eateries in Brooklyn since October
Notable Restaurants Involved Peter Luger Steak House, Francie, Lavender Lake, Meadowsweet, Motorino Pizza
Charges Faced Theft of services; facing deportation proceedings for overstaying student visa
Restaurant Owner’s Statement One owner commented on the situation being peculiar to New York City.
Current Status In custody, awaiting further legal proceedings

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STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER

The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.

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