Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Aqua Blu Apologizes, Removes Controversial 'Proud Boys Burger'

1/27/2025

49 5

Summary

Story summary

Aqua Blu Kitchen & Cocktails in Toms River, New Jersey, sparked outrage with its "Proud Boys Burger," named after a notorious far-right group linked to the January 6 Capitol riots. Owner Cathy Varriale, unaware of the name's implications, swiftly fired the staff member behind the idea. The restaurant has since issued an apology and removed the controversial item from its menu.

History

Historical Context

Aqua Blu Kitchen & Cocktails' "Proud Boys Burger" controversy echoes past instances where businesses faced backlash for insensitive branding. Similar to the 2017 Charlottesville rally, which spotlighted the normalization of extremist groups, this incident highlights the societal reckoning with hate symbols. The swift response by the restaurant mirrors how brands have increasingly prioritized social responsibility in the wake of public outrage.

1 of 2

Story summary

Aqua Blu Kitchen & Cocktails in Toms River, New Jersey, sparked outrage with its "Proud Boys Burger," named after a notorious far-right group linked to the January 6 Capitol riots. Owner Cathy Varriale, unaware of the name's implications, swiftly fired the staff member behind the idea. The restaurant has since issued an apology and removed the controversial item from its menu.

1 / 2