Men's Journal's Blog, page 69

Famed Brunch Restaurant Gets Backlash Over Profane TikTok

A popular New Jersey restaurant came under fire recently for posting a TikTok deemed profane by members of its new community. Taylor Sam's, a famed breakfast and lunch spot, has been a fixture of Brick Township, New Jersey for years. But its new location — which opened in nearby Bayhead on June 20 — got through less than a week of service without incident. 

In a since-deleted TikTok video, an employee of Taylor Sam's in Bay Head talks about "two rich people" who came to the restaurant and complained about prices. The customers apparently made a comment about how Taylor Sam's costs twice the price as the restaurant it replaced, Dune Grass Cafe, before saying they would not return to the new establishment.

“They were old. I feel like the richer you get, the less money you want to give away," the employee said in the video, "$40 breakfast they’re never coming back.”

The video cuts to the kitchen, where the employee is standing with restaurant co-owner Dawn Spivak. "Our food is double the quality and double the flavor," she said, "you can double go and f--- off."

The crude video gained traction online -- particularly on a local Bay Head neighborhood Facebook group where locals expressed their disappointment in the restaurant's post. Some people pointed out that items on the new Bay Head location's menu are consistently more expensive than in Brick. 

In response to the public outcry, co-owner Scott Slovak offered an apology to local NJ Advance Media, saying "there was a miscommunication with the marketing guy and he thought it was approved to go through and it never should have went.”

The restaurant released another apology video to its social media channels that was largely received negatively by viewers. In the follow-up video, Dawn Spivak says that the video was targeting a new audience on TikTok and the local community was not the target audience. The apology video has also since been deleted.  

The Newest Blancpain X Swatch Collab Is Stunning and Affordable

Blancpain designed the watch worn by Jacques Cousteau when he went diving, called the Fifty Fathoms. Created in 1953 in collaboration with the French Navy’s nageurs de combat (combat swimmers), it was the first true diver’s watch. In short, when it comes to underwater exploration this is the original timekeeper and Blancpain the OG dive watch company. 

Over the last couple years, Blancpain and Swatch have worked together to release a collection of pieces made of Bioceramic material in a variety of colors that make dive watches both fun and monetarily accessible to all—a true rarity in the horological sphere. The latest addition to this assemblage is the Green Abyss.

Blancpain X Swatch Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms Dive Watch

Courtesy Image

The reality of the watch world is that fun, colorful, and affordable watches usually don’t handle themselves well underwater, especially when you reach depths of a few hundred feet—but that’s why the Blancpain X Swatch Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms Collection exists, and for those looking for something in muddy, murky green hue, then the new Green Abyss is perfect.

Featuring a case diameter of 42.3mm, the watch features a water contact indicator at 6 o'clock. Additionally, the hour, minute, and second hands all glow in the dark as well as the various hour indexes and the scale on the bezel. The bezel is made from bioceramic, a blend of two thirds ceramic and one third biosourced material made from castor oil, resulting in a durable and scratch-resistant piece with a matte finish. The two-piece strap is made from recycled fishing nets, while the pin buckle and loops are made of Bioceramic material as well.

Blancpain X Swatch Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms Dive Watch Caseback

Courtesy Image

The watch uses a SISTEM51 mechanical movement, which can be seen through the transparent caseback. It has a 90-hour autonomy and is fully anti-magnetic due to its hairspring being made with Nivachron, a titanium-based alloy developed to enhance the resistance of mechanical watch movements to magnetic fields.

The Blancpain X Swatch Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms Green Abyss is priced at $400 and is available via the brand’s official website.

Related: The Best Watches for Men of 2024, From Breitling to Bulova

Jonesing for an Audemars Piguet? This Must-Have Tissot is Best Watch Alternative

There are “grail” watches, there are “exit” watches and then there's Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak watch. First released in 1972, the nautically inspired, Gerald Genta design launched the luxury sports watch genre as well as the ships of a thousand competitors. Hyperbole aside, the Royal Oak’s “porthole” octagonal bezel, signature screws, integrated bracelet and "tapisserie" dial came together to create a true horological icon.

Of course, in the world of watches there’s always a “but,” especially when it comes to ultra-desirable pieces. So here’s the rub—a 41mm steel, self-winding model will set you back $30,000 at retail…if you’re lucky enough to find an authorized dealer willing to sell you one. For watch enthusiasts, scarcity makes their heart grow fonder, I suppose, but we have the perfect watch dupe for you.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Watch vs. Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Watch

Courtesy Images

So for those of us unwilling to part with that kind of cheddar for a steel wrist watch—or anyone who needs a quick, integrated sports watch fix—the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 has entered the chat for those looking for luxury watch alternatives. Like the AP, the PRX features a "tapisserie"-style dial, an integrated bracelet, and a self-winding movement—but for less than 1/34th the price. Plus you can walk right into the store, or click the mouse a couple of times on the website, and buy one; there's no waitlist.

The 40mm, tonneau shaped case is cast in brush-finished, 316L stainless steel and water resistant to 100 meters. Hands and indexes are painted with SuperLuminova for time telling in low light situations. The dial is protected with an anti-reflective coated, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.

Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Watch

Courtesy Image

Flip the watch over to find another sapphire crystal that reveals the Powermatic 80 movement (based on the ETA 2824-2). The calibre offers an 80 hour power reserve, a Nivachron anti-magnetic hairspring, hacking seconds, as well as a date function.

The integrated bracelet is brush finished to match the case and is secured with a twin trigger push-button butterfly clasp. The bracelet is also outfitted with a quick release system, so you can easily swap in a strap for added versatility. The 40mm Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 is available at tissotwatches.com in 20 flavors starting at $715.

Related: Best Watches Under $500 of 2025 Any Man Would Be Proud to Own

Fans Can Still Get FTC Fortnite Refunds. Here's How

If you thought you missed your chance to file a claim in the big Fortnite settlement, you're wrong.

The process was reopened.

The Federal Trade Commission "is sending refunds totaling more than $126 million to players of the popular video game Fortnite who were charged for unwanted purchases while playing the game," the FTC announced in a June 25 press release.

"The agency also announced it is reopening the process for Fortnite gamers and their parents or guardians to submit a claim for compensation stemming from the agency’s 2023 settlement with Fortnite developer Epic Games," the release says.

The company "agreed to pay $245 million to settle the FTC’s allegations that Epic used deceptive practices to trick players into making unwanted purchases," the release says.

How can you submit a claim?

"Eligible consumers who have not yet submitted a claim will now have until July 9, 2025, to submit one at www.ftc.gov/fortnite," the release says.

In December 2024, the FTC "issued the first round of refunds, 629,344 payments totaling more than $72 million. As part of this latest round of refunds, the FTC will send 969,173 checks and PayPal payments on June 25 and June 26 to consumers who filed a valid claim," the release added.

"Today’s announcement brings the total amount of refunds the FTC has issued to consumers related to Epic’s deceptive billing practices to nearly $200 million," it notes. "Consumers selected their payment method when they completed their claim form. Check recipients should cash their checks within 90 days, as indicated on the check. PayPal recipients should redeem their PayPal payments within 30 days."

Consumers "who have questions about their payment should contact the refund administrator, Rust Consulting, Inc, at 1-833-915-0880 or by email at admin@fortniterefund.com," the release adds.

Related: Rocker Unloads on Former Band Members: 'Horrible Humans'

Rocker Unloads on Former Band Members: 'Horrible Humans'

Brent Hinds parted ways with the metal band Mastodon in March, but now it appears that there might be more to the story.

He unloaded on his former band members on their Instagram page, and it wasn't pretty.

Hinds' comment, which is no longer visible, was written on a Mastodon post on Instagram that showcased the artwork for their 2014 album, according to Blabbermouth.net and Stereogum.

The Mastodon post says, "11 more trips ‘round the sun since this was released!"

A fan wrote, "'Halloween' is definitely my #1 track on this record. Definitely gonna miss B. Hinds though," Blabbermouth reported.

Hinds wrote, "I want [sic] miss being in a s*** band with horrible humans," according to Blabbermouth and Stereogum

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mastodon (@mastodonrocks)

Fans praised the band in the comment thread.

"This was the album that got me into Mastodon! It will always have a special place in my heart. It also has my favorite bass tone of all time!" wrote one.

Fans also brought Hinds up on the comment thread, however, as news spread about his comment.

"Please get help Brent," wrote one.

In March, the band and Hinds revealed that they were parting ways, according to Stereogum.

At the time, the band and Hinds released a joint statement, Stereogum reported, that said, "Friends and Fans, After 25 monumental years together, Mastodon and Brent Hinds have mutually decided to part ways."

It continued: "We’re deeply proud of and beyond grateful for the music and history we’ve shared and we wish him nothing but success and happiness in his future endeavors. We are still very inspired and excited to show up for fans in this next chapter of Mastodon. As we move forward, all 2025 touring plans will remain intact. We look forward to seeing you on the road."

Ford Issues 'Do Not Drive' Warning as 1.3 Million Vehicles Recalled

Ford is recalling more than 1.3 million vehicles across the United States, citing serious mechanical and software issues that could lead to accidents, including one defect severe enough to trigger an urgent “Do Not Drive” order.

In filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the automaker confirmed that 2,345 heavy-duty pickups, including certain F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 models, may be missing a key brake pedal spring. 

If the spring wasn’t installed during manufacturing, the brake booster pushrod could disconnect while driving, leading to a total loss of braking.

Motortrend reported that owners of those specific models have been told not to drive their trucks until they are inspected and repaired. Ford said the fix will be provided at no cost, and rental vehicles will be offered during service.

Related: Ford Recall Affects 1 Million Cars, But You Might Not Need to Visit a Dealership

This mechanical issue is just one part of a larger recall campaign. 

Ford also recently recalled nearly 1.1 million vehicles due to a rearview camera software defect that can cause the image to freeze or fail completely, raising the risk of backing accidents.

Models affected by the camera glitch include 2021–2024 Broncos, F-150s, Edges, and Mach-Es, as well as 2022–2025 Transits and 2024 Mustangs, among others. Ford told regulators it had received dozens of complaints and was aware of one minor crash related to the issue.

Another 200,000 Mustang Mach-E electric vehicles are being recalled due to a risk that passengers could become trapped in the back seat if the battery is low. Faulty software may keep rear doors locked even after the front passengers exit, disabling interior handles.

Ford says repairs are underway, and owners should expect letters detailing the recalls. 

While no serious injuries have been reported, the volume and variety of issues have put a spotlight on the automaker’s quality control and on the importance of checking your VIN before your next drive.

States Crack Down on Shopping Cart Theft With Harsh New Penalties

Walking off with a shopping cart might seem like no big deal, but in several U.S. states, it’s a crime that could cost shoppers up to $2,500 and even land them in jail.

Major retailers like Walmart and Target lose an estimated 2 million carts a year, racking up more than $175 million in replacement costs. In response, states across the country are cracking down, introducing stricter laws and steeper penalties to deter what’s now seen as a serious source of loss.

In Illinois, offenders can be slapped with the highest fine—$2,500—depending on the cart's value and any prior offenses, according to the Daily Mail. 

Jail time is also on the table. And that’s not the only place getting tough.

In California, cart theft is a misdemeanor that could carry a $1,000 fine and up to six months behind bars. San Jose now requires large retailers to install locks or GPS systems to prevent carts from vanishing.

Related: Major Supermarket Chain 'Bracing' for Worker Strikes

Florida hits first-time offenders with a $100 civil fine, but repeat thefts could lead to $1,000 fines and a year in jail. 

Hawaii, meanwhile, imposes a $500 fine and 30 days in jail, following thousands of carts reported missing in Honolulu alone.

Even states with lighter penalties aren’t taking the issue lightly. 

Texas cart theft typically carries a $500 fine, but that jumps to $2,000 and jail time if the offender has a record. 

Washington state hands out $50 fines and impound fees, but also allows for misdemeanor charges with up to 90 days in jail.

Related: Kroger’s CEO Issues a Stark Warning About the Future of Grocery Shopping

These laws come as stores battle rising shoplifting and operational losses. Some are ditching self-checkouts altogether. Dollar Tree recently removed machines from 12,000 stores and saw an 8 percent sales jump.

While most people return their carts, the crackdown signals that retailers are losing patience, and lawmakers are backing them up. What used to be a minor nuisance is now a ticket to court.

Related: Walmart Just Opened Stores You Can’t Shop In and They Might Change Everything

'F1' Director Thought It Would Be 'Impossible' to Name Movie After the Sport

It'd be fair to assume that filming a movie with actors playing the role of F1 drivers who hit 210-220 mph regularly would be far from easy. However, based on comments from F1 director Joseph Kosinski, some of the toughest parts fans would expect to happen behind the camera and before filming didn't prove to be major roadblocks.

While Brad Pitt previously revealed to Variety that he and co-star Damson Idris drove for "about two years" and "6,000 miles" in F1 cars in preparation for filming, Kosinski recently detailed a few minor hurdles the movie overcame early on.

During an interview with GQ, Kosinski explained that Formula One's only primary concern was initially that the movie would "villainise" one of the teams on the grid, which he put to rest quickly.

Brad Pitt and Damson Idris filming 'F1' during the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, Towcester.

Tim Goode/PA Images via Getty Images

The F1 director explained that he didn't "feel constrained by the brand [F1] at all," and was "surprised" by Formula One's openness throughout the process, even allowing them to do something he thought would be impossible.

"I was actually surprised how open they were, and allowed us to even name the movie after the sport, which I thought would be impossible," Kosinski said.

It is interesting to hear that Formula One was so willing to work with Kosinski and the film. And regarding naming the movie after the brand, that feels as though it's extremely rare in the movie industry. While there's no concrete evidence of this, you have to wonder how many other movies or potential films ran into that issue in the past.

F1 will officially hit theaters on June 27.

Related: 'F1: The Movie' Star Damson Idris Recalls Witnessing Brad Pitt’s 'Sexy Walk' on Set

T-Mobile’s New Freebie Is a Game Changer for Busy Households Starting July 8

T-Mobile is ramping up efforts to win back frustrated customers after a wave of price hikes and increased competition triggered a noticeable drop in loyalty. The company announced it will begin offering a free DashPass subscription from DoorDash to all customers starting July 8, a move that could be worth up to $120 per year.

The offer is part of the carrier’s T-Mobile Tuesdays promotion and can be claimed in the T-Life app through Aug. 4. 

DashPass unlocks free delivery, reduced service fees, exclusive deals, and rideshare discounts. It’s a timely giveaway, especially for customers who saw their monthly phone bills rise after T-Mobile bumped prices on select legacy plans and increased its Regulatory Programs & Telco Recovery Fees in April.

Related: Want Amazon Prime Free for Prime Day? This Phone Plan Has You Covered

The push to sweeten the deal follows T-Mobile’s earnings report earlier this year, which showed a slight increase in customer churn and a 6 percent dip in new postpaid customer additions compared to the same period in 2024. Many users aired their frustrations on social media, with some threatening to jump ship.

The Street reported that CEO Mike Sievert acknowledged that customers are feeling cautious. "There’s a certain element out there where people are in a time of uncertainty about the future, grabbing what they can afford now," he said during an April earnings call.

Related: Experts Issue Urgent Warning After Massive AT&T Data Leak Resurfaces

Beyond DashPass, T-Mobile also announced a new Easy Upgrade offer: customers can have their phones paid off—up to $800—and get a new iPhone Pro at no cost. Families switching over can get four iPhones and service for $100/month.

The company also rolled out three new low-cost prepaid plans with a five-year price lock and revealed a Costco partnership that will offer $450 to members who switch and activate a new phone.

With Verizon, AT&T, and even cable providers like Spectrum and Comcast tightening the competition, T-Mobile is making bold moves to stay in the game.

Related: Got a Siri Device? You May Be Owed Up to $100

Here's How Much Brad Pitt's 'F1' Movie Could Make Opening Weekend

Brad Pitt's new racing film, F1: The Movie, is roaring into theaters very soon. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, who's last big hit was Top Gun: Maverick, F1 could be the one summer blockbuster that doesn't involve dinosaurs, superheroes, monsters, time travel, or all three. Who would have thought a movie about racing would feel like the most grounded and refreshing blockbuster of the season?

That said, it's very unclear how well F1 will actually do at the box office. Moviegoers a very unpredictable at the moment; Pixar's latest, Elio, has flopped at the box office, while even the excellent and well-reviewed Marvel opus, Thunderbolts*, underperformed. So, how much money will F1 really make?

It depends on who you ask. According to Variety, some guesses say the movie could net as much as $60 million during its opening weekend. Others suggest it will be closer to $30 million. 

Related: Buzz for Brad Pitt's 'F1' Turns Heads Before Rotten Tomatoes Score Reveal

Right now, the movie has a $200 million budget, which makes the prospect of it earning back that budget seem daunting. Then again, because the movie is partly produced by Apple, does it matter that much?

As of this writing, there are plenty of Apple TV+ TV shows that surely are not as widely watched as the breakout hits like Severance and Ted Lasso. Could F1 be the theatrical version of a dark horse Apple show? (Like Your Friends & Neighbors or For All Mankind?)

The weekend is coming, and we shall see. The people either really want to see Brad Pitt and Damson Idris, or they don't.

F1: The Movie hits theaters on Friday, June 27.

Related: Brad Pitt's High-Octane 'F1' Trailer Proves It's This Year's 'Top Gun: Maverick'