Adelaine Morin, a popular TikTok influencer with over 1.1 million followers, recently shared her experience dining at a Nobu pop-up restaurant during Coachella’s first weekend, sparking significant online backlash. In her TikTok video, Morin detailed the Omakase-style meal, which cost $350 per person, plus a 22% gratuity, bringing her total bill to approximately $945, including drinks. She described the experience as a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity to enjoy a Michelin-star meal while attending the festival.
The Nobu pop-up was part of the Red Bull Mirage, a luxurious, air-conditioned 200,000-square-foot venue located on the polo field grounds, directly across from the Quasar Stage. The venue featured curated DJ sets and offered a high-end dining experience, attracting numerous celebrities and festival-goers seeking an exclusive retreat from the desert heat. The Omakase menu included premium items such as caviar, wagyu, and custom Red Bull cocktails.
@adelainemorin Experiences like this >>> #coachella #nobu #food #review
♬ Idyllic jazz bossa nova with piano and guitar(1298871) – TAKANORI ONDA
Despite Morin’s enthusiasm, many viewers criticized the exorbitant cost of the meal, highlighting the unaffordability of such luxury amid rising everyday expenses. Some TikTok users commented that they could barely afford groceries, let alone a $1,000 meal. Others pointed out the restricted 50-minute dining time, questioning the value of the experience given the premium price. Morin acknowledged some of the criticism as valid but maintained that she did not regret the splurge.
The controversy surrounding Morin’s post has ignited broader discussions about the high costs associated with attending Coachella. General admission tickets alone cost $600, and additional expenses for food and beverages can quickly accumulate. Other festival-goers have shared their own experiences with overpriced food, such as $17 lemonade and $102 for cold Mexican dishes, further fueling the debate over the affordability of the festival.
In response to the backlash, some creators have attempted to expose the steep prices of festival food. For instance, Ruth Viveros showcased her dinner, which included a $17 lemonade and $102 worth of Mexican food, expressing disappointment over the quality and value of the meal. She described the tortillas as “freezing cold” and the overall experience as unsatisfactory.
The debate highlights a growing concern among festival-goers about the rising costs of attending events like Coachella. While some attendees are willing to indulge in luxury experiences, others feel that the high prices are unjustified, especially given the substantial cost of admission. As discussions continue, it remains to be seen whether such controversies will lead to changes in pricing and offerings at future festivals.
ADVERTISEMENT
