🍔💸 “Sorry, your man has to pay—At Bobbys”

Bobbys Burger promotes a bold motto: 

“Unfortunately at Bobbys Burger women aren't allowed to pay, we are a society that supports women and men have to pay here.”

The motto sparked discussion, but it was all in good fun, not meant literally. It emphasizes a playful twist on traditional “treating” culture to engage diners humorously.

The campaign became even more memorable with a video showing a female customer trying to pay. As she handed over the money, the cashier interrupted with:

“Nope, sorry, you have to get your man to pay.”

This moment clearly showcased the lighthearted, tongue-in-cheek nature of the campaign. The video drew attention and highlighted the restaurant’s playful personality, making the brand fun and memorable.

Why the Motto and Video Got Attention

The combination of humor, playful gender references, and surprise created:

• Memorable storytelling

• Social media conversations

• Shareable content

• Strong brand personality

Though it poked fun at traditional dating norms, the campaign supported women while encouraging men to “treat” their date, “strong men pay here” making it playful marketing rather than negative.

Marketing Lessons for Restaurant Owners

1. Playful Messaging Works

When framed as a fun motto, humor can engage customers and create a memorable experience.

2. Video Amplifies Engagement

Seeing the playful interaction in real life—like a female customer being stopped from paying—makes the brand more relatable and shareable.

3. Attention Needs Strategy

Even playful campaigns are most effective when paired with:

• Clear brand alignment

• Promotions or special offers

• Customer experience consistency

Tip: Ensure playful messaging is interpreted as fun and inclusive to avoid confusion.

How Restaurants Can Make the Most of a Playful Motto

Reinforce the Fun

Follow-up posts can clarify the playful intent, e.g.,“Relax, it’s just a motto—everyone still gets to eat! 😉”

Tie Humor to Promotions

Example: “Men treat today, women get dessert free!”This turns humor into engagement and potential sales.

Make the Positive Message Clear

The takeaway: treat someone, have fun, and enjoy the experience. Playful interactions make dining memorable.

FAQ

1. Was the ‘men pay’ motto meant literally?

No. It was playful and exaggerated, designed as a fun, lighthearted statement.

2. Why did the video get attention?

It showed the motto in action with humor and surprise, making it shareable and memorable.

3. Can playful mottos be used safely by restaurants?

Yes, if clearly framed as fun and aligned with the brand’s personality.

4. How should restaurants follow up on playful campaigns?

Reinforce the humor, tie it to promotions, and ensure customer experience matches the messaging.

5. Can humor grow a restaurant brand?

Absolutely. Thoughtful humor boosts engagement, strengthens brand personality, and encourages sharing.

Playful Mottos That Make an Impact

Bobbys Burger’s “men pay” motto and the accompanying video weren’t literal—they were clever, playful marketing designed to engage customers and spark conversation.

For restaurant owners, it’s proof that humor and storytelling can create memorable experiences and social buzz. Playful mottos, paired with creative execution, can turn simple dining moments into shareable, attention-grabbing experiences.