A Durban man has gone viral after posting a receipt from a single night out that totalled a jaw-dropping R225 000, leaving South Africans reeling at the extravagant display of wealth – and the eyebrow-raising R30 tip.
The man, who describes himself on social media as a DJ, producer, publisher, and promoter, shared images of the receipt on TikTok following a night out at Views at Twenty5, an upscale restaurant and lounge in Morningside, Durban.
Champagne Showers at a Price
The receipt, shared on TikTok by the user @don_wavie, shows an impressive list of high-end alcohol, including:
- 7 bottles of Moët & Chandon at R2 850 each
- 3 bottles of Veuve Clicquot at R3 050 each
- 2 bottles of Dom Pérignon at R10 500 each
- 8 bottles of Armand de Brignac Demi Sec at R19 000 each
Other luxury items added up to push the bill to R225,020.
While some admired the sheer indulgence, others took to social media to critique the measly R30 listed under ‘Tips’, sparking debates about gratuity and respect for service workers.
“It’s like we are here on earth to see other people live life,” the man captioned his post – a sentiment that resonated with many viewers facing daily financial pressures.
Social Media Reactions
The clip triggered a mix of awe, disbelief, and criticism online:
💬 “In this economy? That tip is criminal!”
💬 “If you can afford 10k champagne, you can afford a decent tip.”
💬 “This is wild – rent, groceries, fuel prices… and then there’s this guy.”
Some users defended the bill, suggesting that entertainers and promoters often spend big as part of their business, especially in the nightlife and hospitality industries.
However, many remained stunned by the extravagance amid South Africa’s ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
The Lounge ‘Responds’
As of yet, Views at Twenty5 has not issued a statement regarding the viral bill or the public scrutiny around the gratuity.
But the club has gained a surge in online attention, with curious users looking into the venue’s lavish offerings.
The Bigger Picture
While luxury spending in elite circles is nothing new, the stark contrast with economic realities has fueled conversations about wealth inequality, social media showboating, and tipping culture.
One user summed it up, writing: “To some, this is just a night out. To others, it’s five years of their salary.”
Whether it was a marketing stunt, a celebration, or simply another night in the life of a wealthy entertainer – it certainly got South Africa talking!
What’s the biggest bill you have ever had to pay?
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