‘Cozy’ holiday market slammed for charging $19 for ‘room temp hot chocolate’ — but scorned vendors are pushing back

FESTIVE market shoppers in a major city have slammed “extortionate” prices for everything from hot chocolate to pork belly.

But stall holders have hit back, saying it’s a knock-on effect from the tens of thousands of dollars they’re charged by “public space real estate vultures.”

One man complained on TikTok after he and a pal were charged more than $20 for two cups of hot chocolate at Union Square Market in New York City (stock image)Credit: Getty Shoppers have been flocking to festive markets which have opened up for business across the United StatesCredit: Getty

One shopper who criticized both the quality of food and prices after visiting Union Square Holiday Market in New York City said it “did not live up to the hype.”

“Don’t get me wrong, I understand the plight of business owners and the overhead costs that it takes to be able to enter these markets,” he added on TikTok last week.

“But what I will say is if the food is going to be astronomical in price, the food also needs to be astronomically good.”

The unhappy man shared his experience after he and a pal tucked into empanadas and yuca fries – costing a total $16.88.

He slammed the low meat filling-to-pastry ratio, and said the fries were “mushy in the middle.”

At one stall they bought two hot chocolates with marshmallows – one of which was also served with whipped cream – for a total $24.48.

“The hot chocolate was just above room temperature.

“So I had to ask the man to remake it. I would give this hot chocolate a 7.5 out of 10,” the man said in his review.

Others have also shared their thoughts on meal prices at the market, with $13 for a stroopwaffel described as “a crime.”

And $18 for a crêpe was mocked as “crazy.”

“It’s literally cheaper to fly to Europe than to shop a local NYC market,” wrote one person on social media.

HIGH ENTRY COSTS

But stall holders have responded to the complaints, saying it is not their fault that visitors are being charged so much.

“We’ve been hearing you think prices are a little bit steep at Union Square Holiday Market,” said one stall holder at Coco Bred.

“Here’s why: the cost of entry for vendors is $20,000 minimum,” she added.

“For me, it costs about $22,000 just to be in this space for six weeks.

“On top of that cost, the space comes bare bones, we have to hire a contractor, and buy all of the materials to build out our little mini restaurant in two days.

“And then on top of that, most vendors – small businesses – are renting a commissary kitchen where you pay rent there to use the kitchen, pay rent for storage space, dry storage, freezer space, and refrigerator space.”

EXTORTION

The businesswoman said, however, that shoppers would enjoy the variety of delicious meals on offer.

“What makes it worth it is you’ll find unique vendors making one-of-kind delicious handcrafted house-made food that you can’t find anywhere else. Come and see us and try your new favorite dish,” she said.

The restaurateur sparked a mixed response, with one person exclaiming “that’s extortion” in regards to what stall holders are being charged up front.

Others said they appreciated her “transparency” but suggested she and other business folk “band together and refuse to rent a space to force the lowering of prices.”

“So let me get this straight, because you chose to pay $20,000 for that location, now the customers have to cover the difference? That doesn’t really feel fair,” commented one.

TRANSPARENCY

“Omg Union Square is ripping off vendors! Honestly thank you for the transparency, most people don’t know this. This system needs to be more affordable!” said a supporter.

“As a small market vendor, I wish all the vendors all the luck but this is not sustainable for the vendors or the consumer,” wrote another.

She also scoffed at those who “control all these holiday markets, operating as public-space real estate vultures, extracting value from land they don’t own.

“And they squeeze small businesses by charging steep rents and revenue shares for access to public foot traffic that should be open to all.”

UNIQUE FINDS

But others said that festive market shoppers should not complain about higher prices.

Others praised the market’s “strong Christmas atmosphere.”

“People will spend $15 at McDonald’s… but complain about $15 going to a local business,” said one of many supporters.

“Union Square would not be the same without our small businesses – the familiar faces, unique finds and spots that brighten our days,” the location said.

“Shop local and stop by the Union Square Holiday Market to support independent vendors.”