A restaurant in North Carolina is experiencing a wave of both backlash and increased bookings after implementing a ban on children younger than five. Caruso’s, an upscale Italian eatery in Mooresville, made this controversial decision following several disruptive incidents involving young diners. The final straw came when a family refused to lower the volume of an iPad game, prompting management to ask them to leave and subsequently banning all kids under five.
Yoshiko Nunez, the restaurant’s manager, shared with the Washington Post that while the family was upset, they seemed unconcerned about the impact their child’s behavior had on other diners. “We want to create a pleasant dining environment and can’t dictate how parents should manage their children,” she explained.
The decision has sparked a heated debate among patrons, with some supporting the move while others criticize it as exclusionary. However, Nunez noted a significant uptick in business, with daily customer numbers rising from approximately 50 to 80.
Caruso’s is not alone in this trend. An Australian restaurant previously banned children under seven after a noisy baby disrupted the experience, while a Houston establishment also opted for a no-kids policy following costly damage caused by a child. Similarly, a restaurant on Monterrey’s Fisherman’s Wharf made headlines for prohibiting strollers and high chairs.
The rise of restaurants adopting no-kids policies reflects a desire for a peaceful dining atmosphere, free from disruptive behavior. Diners often seek the chance to enjoy an uninterrupted meal, while parents may appreciate the opportunity to savor their food without constant distractions.
Despite the challenges posed by noisy children, it’s often adults who can create the most disruption. Pasquale Caruso, the owner of Caruso’s and a father himself, clarified that his decision was not rooted in a disdain for children but rather in a commitment to maintaining an elegant dining experience. “I’m striving to create an enjoyable atmosphere for couples and friends seeking a pleasant night out,” he said.
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In summary, Caruso’s decision to ban young children has resulted in both controversy and an increase in business, highlighting the ongoing debate about children in dining establishments.