New Bedford Restaurant Launches Burger Deal After Tip Jar Theft

A 75-cent tip jar incident downtown might sound small, but it ended up sparking a brilliant deal for the restaurant's customers.

That was the case recently at downtown New Bedford's Smashed NB, where a tip jar theft made waves — not because of a huge loss, but because the total taken was just 75 cents. Cameras caught it, the story spread quickly, and what could’ve sparked a frustrating situation took an unexpected turn.

Instead of focusing on the negativity, owner Brandon Sadeck turned the moment into a creative tongue-in-cheek burger special.

Turning a Viral Moment Into Something Positive

Smashed NB's special quickly caught attention.

For Sadeck, it wasn’t about making money. It was about perspective.

“I may technically be losing money on the special,” Sadeck said, “But that’s not really the point. Our customers have been incredible to us, and this is just a small way to give back for the support they show us every single day.”

That mindset is nothing new for him. Anyone familiar with downtown knows Sadeck has quietly helped feed people in need before, especially those near the SRTA bus station.

Giving Back Where It Matters Most

Taking things one step further, Sadeck is also donating complimentary burgers to PACE Inc. in New Bedford, an organization that supports families across the SouthCoast.

For him, the choice felt natural. This is the same city where he grew up, built his business, and continues to serve daily. Supporting local youth means investing in the future of the very community that supports him.

Honestly, that says far more than any viral video or missing change ever could, because at the end of the day, this story isn’t really about 75 cents.

It’s about gratitude and a reminder that even when something frustrating happens, there’s always an opportunity to turn it into something good.