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Restaurant’s No-Kids Policy Ignites Debate — And a Surge in Business
A North Carolina eatery has found itself at the center of a heated discussion — and a boost in bookings — after implementing a ban on children under the age of five. Caruso’s, an upscale Italian restaurant in Mooresville, made the bold move in January following a series of unruly incidents involving young diners. The final straw came when the parents of a child engrossed in an iPad refused to lower the volume, prompting the restaurant to request their departure and ultimately institute the no-kids rule.
“They were upset, but they didn’t seem to care about the other guests,” said Marco, the restaurant manager, in an interview. “We tried to handle it delicately, but we’re here to serve our customers, and we can’t dictate how parents manage their children.”
Unsurprisingly, the decision has drawn mixed reactions from patrons and parents alike. Some have criticized the restaurant for its exclusionary approach while others commend it for prioritizing a peaceful dining atmosphere. However, despite the polarized opinions, Marco reports a rise in business, soaring from around 50 diners daily to approximately 80.
Caruso’s isn’t alone in the “kids or no kids” debate. A couple of years back, an Australian restaurant instituted a similar ban after a baby’s wails became too disruptive. In Houston, Cuchara declared a no-kids policy after a child caused $1,500 worth of damage. Meanwhile, a restaurant in Monterrey made waves by posting a sign prohibiting strollers, high chairs, and loud kids.
The no-kids trend isn’t shocking. Diners often seek a serene escape, wanting to indulge in a fine meal without the chaos of loud children. And parents? Well, they often just want to savor their meal without the constant negotiation of “just one more bite.”
Yet, while children can be rambunctious, it’s often the adults who present the biggest challenges — whether it’s parents oblivious to their kids’ antics or adults who find reasons to complain about everything. After losing both customers and revenue due to disruptive behavior, Caruso’s owner, Giovanni, who happens to be a father of two, felt compelled to act. “It started to feel like we were running a pizza joint instead of an elegant dining establishment,” he remarked.
Giovanni emphasizes that the decision isn’t rooted in any disdain for children but rather a commitment to fostering a specific ambiance. “I aim to please everyone and maintain a refined atmosphere where couples and friends can enjoy a lovely evening,” he stated.
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In summary, Caruso’s no-kids policy has stirred controversy while simultaneously increasing its clientele, highlighting a significant trend in the dining industry where some establishments opt for child-free atmospheres to enhance the overall dining experience.