Restaurant refuses to allow children after 5:30 p.m., causing quite a stir

Screaming. Shouting. Crying. Whining. No, you’re not in the ball pit at McDonald’s or IKEA’s Småland; you’re simply out for dinner. Admit it: loud, unruly children in a restaurant can seriously ruin your evening. Restaurant owners Jac and Mariska had had enough and therefore made a drastic decision for their restaurant Mossels & Meer in Oostkapelle. Babies and toddlers are not allowed into the restaurant after 5:30 p.m.

And that has certainly got people talking. There is clearly one camp that finds this decision utterly ridiculous, and another camp that enthusiastically supports the rule.

Annoying and life-threatening

Jac and Mariska told their story to AD. Their decision to make the restaurant ‘adults-only’ has nothing to do with a possible hatred of children. Quite the opposite, in fact, because the couple have children themselves. But the behavior of very young visitors simply had a huge impact on the atmosphere in their restaurant. Both for the adult guests and for the staff.

Because yes: whining children are annoying anyway (this mother was even thrown out of a restaurant because of it). But also realize that running children are dangerous because they get in the way of restaurant staff. Imagine dropping a heavy mussel pan on the floor because a child crashes into you…

Failing parents

The restaurant owners had even more examples that led to their decision. They also spoke about parents who were completely uncomprehending when staff addressed them about a situation getting out of hand. “Children were walking around here barefoot late at night, and when we asked whether their parents could put some flip-flops on them because there might be a piece of glass lying around, there was no understanding,” Mariska told AD. She wants to clarify that she does not blame the children themselves. According to Mariska, it is the parents who seem to be becoming increasingly lax.

After 5:30 p.m. = ‘adults-only’ time

All in all, the decision was made a year ago. Babies and toddlers are no longer allowed into the restaurant after 5:30 p.m. Before that time, they are still welcome: Jac and Mariska reason that they will probably be gone by around seven at the latest. A perfect time for (child-free) adults to enjoy their dinner in peace.

Discrimination?

The decision caused quite a stir. Some guests found the choice utterly ridiculous; some even spoke of discrimination. It led—and sometimes still leads—to negative one-star reviews on Google.

“What a sad business, discriminating against and refusing children. This restaurant will go bankrupt very quickly. What an ugly side people show with their endless discrimination” and “Never allow discrimination to become normalized. For a better and environmentally friendly future for our children” are among the comments.

Another person writes: “How did they ever go anywhere with their parents? Were they the perfect child? Nope. Adults only—how sad can you be? Sorry, yes, it may be annoying, but we were all little once,” write critics from the bewildered camp.

And then there is this rather extraordinary one: “Refusing people is not allowed by law, just look at 40-45!” someone writes. Um, you’re allowed to express your own opinion, but bringing World War II into it?!

Parenting: a profession in itself

But what we mainly see is that Jac and Mariska’s decision is being applauded by a great many people. Interestingly, the sympathetic camp very often focuses on parenting. Or rather: the lack of it. “Considering that most parents can no longer raise their children properly, this is completely justified. We used to sit quietly for two hours when we went out to eat. My father only had to look at us and we behaved,” someone writes.

“Absolutely right. I recently heard this from a wise old woman: ‘Children nowadays are fed, not raised.’ I hope many restaurants follow your example. Brilliant,” another person cheers. Someone even recounts a toe-curling experience: “Once, a child started hitting me and the mother just kept laughing at me. She even said: ‘Yes, that’s their age, isn’t it?’” Age = a free pass to hit random people? Okay, mothers!

Enjoying yourself in peace: wonderful!

Many people even hope that more restaurants will introduce an ‘adults-only’ policy. “Great, they should all do it” and “Excellent initiative!! Hopefully more restaurant owners will follow” are among the comments. Good news for them: ‘adults only’ is becoming increasingly popular among businesses. Jac and Mariska are happy, as are their guests. Visitors stay longer, order an extra glass of wine, and above all can enjoy themselves in peace.

What do you think? Great rule or completely unacceptable decision? We’re curious to hear your opinion.

Also read:

• These plates for children turned out slightly unsuccessful
• These children’s ‘reviews’ are more critical than those of many a food critic
• This is why the French bring their own knife to restaurants

Source: AD