It’s no secret that the Olympics cost a metric shit ton of money. The London Organising Committee has way overblown its budget, and many people on the streets are complaining about the real benefit against the cost of such an event. Good to know then that the officials are at least eating well.

A photograph of the receipt for the officials lunch was posted to the social network Reddit over the weekend, showing a bill that totals £44 660 – approximately R500 000. This includes a delicious bottle of Hennessy 1853 cognac, quite a bold move during lunch. But hey, that’s just how these guys roll. Only the total on the bottom of the receipt is shown, but it is believed that there is some good Scotch on there too.

Olympic authorities have since launched an investigation into the receipt, seeking to establish a few facts. Was this meal ordered by Olympic officials, and if so, by whom? Secondly, was it paid out of pocket or by the UK taxpayer?

It is believed that the receipt originates from The Dorchester Hotel’s China Tang restaurant, whose drinks list includes a 350ml bottle of Hennessy 1853 for £19 000, matching the price on the receipt.

Neither China Tang restaurant or the London Organising Comittee is willing to comment at this point. I can’t imagine that this will be considered good publicity.

That said, I envy the waiter that got that £4 962 (R63 000) tip – not too bad for a lunch shift.

[Source: EWN]