Brooklyn, November 17, 2025
Pei Chung, a 34-year-old Brooklyn resident, has been arrested multiple times for allegedly dining and dashing at upscale NYC restaurants. Posing as a food influencer, she ordered expensive meals without paying and faces theft charges. Chung’s scheme involved using luxury brands to gain trust and complicate payment processes. Reports indicate ongoing investigations may lead to more charges.
Brooklyn, NY – A 34-year-old resident of Brooklyn, Pei Chung, has been arrested five times since late October for allegedly dining and dashing at several high-end New York City restaurants. The establishments affected include well-known venues such as Peter Luger Steak House and Francie in Williamsburg. Chung reportedly posed as a food influencer, ordering expensive meals without paying for them. In one incident, she allegedly offered sexual favors to settle a $146 bill. She faces charges of theft of services and is scheduled to appear in court, though she has not commented on the allegations.
Chung’s purported scheme involved frequent visits to upscale restaurants while flaunting luxury brands including Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes. She would present herself as a food influencer, complete with a camera and lighting setup, ordering large meals to photograph before leaving without settling the bill. Reports indicate that she sometimes attempted to exchange social media promotion for complimentary meals and would often vanish for extended periods, complicating the payment process. Several managers from the restaurants have confirmed these occurrences and are cooperating with authorities during the ongoing investigation.
In light of this situation, law enforcement is urging restaurant staff and owners to remain vigilant and report any similar incidents. They also caution patrons to be wary of individuals claiming to be food influencers, especially if they engage in suspicious behavior or attempt to barter services for meals. More charges against Chung may arise as the investigation continues and additional information is uncovered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Pei Chung?
Pei Chung is a 34-year-old woman from Brooklyn who has been arrested multiple times for allegedly dining and dashing at high-end New York City restaurants. She is accused of posing as a food influencer to obtain free meals.
What is ‘dining and dashing’?
‘Dining and dashing’ refers to the act of leaving a restaurant without paying for the meal, often after consuming food and beverages. It is considered theft of services.
What charges has Pei Chung faced?
Pei Chung has been charged with theft of services for allegedly leaving restaurants without paying for her meals. She is scheduled to appear in court to face these charges.
What should restaurant staff do if they encounter similar incidents?
Restaurant staff should remain vigilant, report any suspicious behavior to law enforcement, and cooperate with authorities in investigations. It’s also advisable to verify the credentials of individuals claiming to be food influencers.
Is the investigation into Pei Chung’s activities ongoing?
Yes, the investigation is ongoing, and further charges may be forthcoming as more information becomes available.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Pei Chung, 34, Brooklyn resident |
| Alleged Crime | Dining and dashing at high-end NYC restaurants |
| Restaurants Affected | Peter Luger Steak House, Francie in Williamsburg, among others |
| Method | Posing as a food influencer, ordering meals, and leaving without paying |
| Charges | Theft of services |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing, with potential for additional charges |
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