Where does this group think that most restaurant employees get their wages from?  The customer.  Do they really think that restaurants will raise the prices on the menus to accommodate their desire for higher wages?  Have they not thought through the process that higher hourly wages may mean reduced hours for employees?   Most people who eat out know what they can afford to spend.  That's why they select where they will eat.  Most of us older folks eat out at lunch rather than dinner because it's less expensive.  Most of us believe that workers there are using those positions to something higher.  Many workers believe that as well.  My uncle began as a waiter and ended up as a restaurant and catering owner.  He just believed in working his way up.