Customers at Toby Carvery have raised concerns after a video emerged showing a chef weighing meat portions before serving. The footage, shared on social media by a customer at the Poole, Dorset location, sparked debate about portion sizes amid ongoing cost pressures affecting the hospitality sector.

In the video, the customer hands his plate to a chef who places the meat on a set of scales before carving a slice. When asked how long the practice of weighing meat had been in place, the chef responds that it has been about three weeks and mentions the use of scales at other branches as well. The customer inquires about portion sizes, and the chef states that a "king-size" plate includes approximately 216 grams of meat, while a normal plate contains about 160 grams. The video also highlights the customer’s disappointment with smaller Yorkshire puddings served alongside the meal.

The post attracted numerous reactions online, with some viewers making light of the situation by joking about future rationing measures. Many expressed skepticism about the portion sizes, interpreting the use of scales as a sign of tighter control over servings.

Toby Carvery responded to the incident by clarifying that the scales are not part of a new policy to reduce portion sizes. A company spokesperson explained that the weighing is only used during staff training to ensure consistent servings, particularly to assist new employees and to confirm that experienced chefs maintain proper portion standards. The spokesperson emphasized that the restaurant’s portion sizes have not changed and that unlimited sides and trimmings continue to be offered with carvery meals.

The incident highlights sensitivities around dining value and portion control as restaurants navigate rising operational costs, though Toby Carvery maintains that its approach to serving remains unchanged.