Imagine sipping your afternoon tea while cradling a lion cub—sounds like a scene straight out of a whimsical fairy tale, right? But this is reality in China, where a restaurant in Shanxi province is offering patrons the opportunity to cuddle with these adorable yet vulnerable creatures, stirring up fierce debates about animal welfare.

At the Wanhui restaurant in Taiyuan, guests can enjoy a four-course afternoon meal alongside cuddly lion cubs, llamas, and even turtles. This unique experience, priced at approximately 1,078 yuan (around $150), has taken social media by storm, with customers sharing heartwarming pictures and videos of themselves cradling the lion cubs like newborns on platforms such as WeChat and Weibo.

Since its opening in June, Wanhui has been selling about 20 tickets daily to enthusiastic animal lovers eager for an unforgettable dining experience. Yet, this seemingly innocent indulgence has ignited serious concerns regarding the legality of such practices and the overall welfare of the animals involved. The state-run Shanghai Daily has raised alarms, noting that the restaurant’s activities might not comply with animal welfare laws.

Critics have taken to social media to voice their concerns, with many labeling the venture as irresponsible. A Weibo user succinctly pointed out, “This is for the rich to play,” highlighting the exclusivity of the experience that few can afford. Another user passionately called for action from the authorities, stating, “The relevant departments should take care of it.”

This troubling trend follows a recent investigation into a hotel in Chongqing that allowed red pandas to climb on guests' beds as part of a so-called “wake-up service.” The juxtaposition of exotic animals in commercial settings raises ethical questions about the treatment of these creatures and the implications of commodifying their existence for entertainment.