A 45-year-old mum says she was left embarrassed after Toby Carvery refused to let her order a children’s meal. Amy Jones had gone to the restaurant with her husband and daughter to celebrate her daughter’s 13th birthday. Because she recently had gastric sleeve surgery, she can only eat a few bites and hoped for a smaller portion.

When she asked for a kid’s meal, the server told her it wasn’t allowed. The menu is only for customers aged 12 and under. Amy explained her surgery, but staff said they could not make an exception for anyone, no matter the reason.

Feeling uncomfortable, she ordered a full adult vegetarian meal instead. She managed only a few mouthfuls before feeling full. When she asked for a takeaway container, she was told the restaurant no longer provides them because some customers were misusing them. She was given a thin paper bag, which she felt was unsuitable for hot food and gravy.

Amy says she felt humiliated, especially with a busy restaurant watching. She believes staff could have shown some understanding, given her medical needs. The experience has now made her worried about dining out in the future.

Toby Carvery later said the children’s menu is strictly for ages 12 and under and that their buffet lets people choose their own portion sizes. Amy’s story went viral online, with many people arguing over whether the restaurant should have made an exception.