this is actually the reason i believe it was published anonymously. i doubt anyone would have a problem suing any restaurant for using security tapes for anything but security incidents. even that marketing research is muddy waters legally.

Not that it's ever going to happen, but can't they just blur the faces of the customers like they do on Cops?

Assuming they have the skill, time or budget to do that.

It's a restaurant...

I don't even think they have anything even resembling an obligation to explain themselves. I personally think the whole thing is made up, it's got too many telltale signs, but I'm sure they don't care whether or not I believe that. If true, they're basically doing a public service to other restaurants by sharing their findings. If false, they wouldn't be able to prove anything anyway. It's really up to them whether they want to be believed or not, and I'm guessing they don't care.

[citation needed]

This is a fairly stupid/insipid response.

Educate yourself.

http://asmp.org/tutorials/property-and-model-releases.html#.... http://www.create-legal.com/867/model-release-forms