New Jersey Mom Claims She Was Held at Cafe After Daughter Broke Table

A mother from New Jersey has alleged that she was prevented from leaving a cafe after her three-year-old daughter accidentally broke a $1,600 marble table.

The incident took place at Hazelnut Cafe in Lavallette. Kathy Denman, the mother, was waiting to pay for some coffee and ice cream when her daughter was seen playfully striking the table with her feet. Denman later shared a video of the event on TikTok.

“I felt completely humiliated and embarrassed,” Denman expressed.

According to her, the cafe manager informed them they were “not allowed to leave.” It remains unclear if she provided any credit card details to the cafe; however, online sleuths quickly identified a similar table at a retailer for about $1,598.

Denman recalled spending an additional twenty minutes helping to clean up the broken pieces from the table, noting that thankfully, no one was hurt.

In a subsequent conversation, one of the cafe owners called her to explain the cafe’s policy following the incident. Denman shared that they reached out to apologize for the treatment her family received.

“We want to move forward peacefully and we don’t wish to discuss this matter any further,” she added.

In response, Hazelnut Cafe commented on their Instagram, indicating they would personally reach out to Denman to offer support and assistance if needed. They also mentioned that they had removed all tables from their locations as a precautionary measure.

The cafe management emphasized that they never intended to hold anyone against their will and confirmed that Denman would not be charged for the damaged table.

Hazelnut Cafe is part of Hazel Boutique, a home goods and clothing business operated by twin sisters Kimberly and Jenna Campfield, with four locations across New Jersey.