A recent wave of moped-riding thieves has been causing fear among diners at upscale restaurants in New York City, particularly in Williamsburg and Manhattan. These robbers have been targeting diners, stealing luxury watches worth tens of thousands of dollars, and making a quick getaway on their motorbikes.
One such incident occurred at Birds of a Feather, a trendy Chinese restaurant in Williamsburg, where diners Gabe Thomas and his girlfriend found themselves in a terrifying situation. Within minutes of starting their date night, they were forced to hide under their table as a masked man with a gun robbed a neighboring table of their phones and a watch. The chaos that ensued, with diners fleeing to the kitchen and the sound of shattering glasses, left the restaurant in disarray.
This brazen robbery, which lasted less than 40 seconds, is part of a series of similar crimes that have taken place in and around popular dining spots in Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan. The stolen luxury watches, including one valued at $100,000, have caught the attention of both foodies and residents in these upscale neighborhoods, sparking concern and outrage.
The fact that such crimes are occurring in affluent areas known for their designer stores and upscale living has raised alarms about the safety and security of these neighborhoods. The incidents have reignited discussions about the city’s overall crime rate and whether New York is becoming less safe, despite official statistics suggesting otherwise.
As residents and diners grapple with these unsettling events, it is clear that more needs to be done to address the root causes of these crimes and ensure the safety of everyone in the city. The NYPD is working to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent further incidents, but the fear and unease among residents remain palpable.
In the meantime, diners are advised to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings when dining out in these areas. It is essential to take precautions to protect personal belongings, such as keeping valuables out of sight and being cautious of suspicious individuals. By staying alert and informed, residents and visitors can help contribute to a safer and more secure environment for everyone in New York City.