Can you bring a birthday cake to a restaurant? Viral pizzeria dispute reveals the rules

A viral dispute arose at Joey Tomato's in New Jersey when a family brought in a birthday cake, leading the owner to enforce a policy prohibiting outside desserts for reasons of food safety and liability. Etiquette experts advised that customers should always seek permission before bringing in external food. In contrast, industry professionals suggested managers approach enforcement politely or allow cakes with advance notice to minimize disruption during celebrations.