Andrew Mellman wrote: The difference is that I think we were "smart" about it, eating early (5:30-6 pm reservations), always brought a jar of peanut butter "just in case," and packed a second case with toys or books (again just in case). Over a period of 6-7 years I think one or both acted up only a handful of times, and one of us left with them immediately until they calmed down.
Today we have seen many examples of parents with kids running wild or screaming at the table at say 8:15 or so, which is most small kids' bedtimes so it's natural they'd be tired and acting out! Don't understand.
I really feel for the restaurateurs. If they kick out the families, they will get applause from some but in most areas will likely lose more business than they'd gain. If they don't, they may lose some adult customers, but I really think most would blame the parents and would not blame the restaurant. I vote for letting the kids in, or maybe restricting them to something like "kids are permitted and welcomed before 8:30pm?
Deb Hall
Foodie
4169
Sun Mar 04, 2007 4:46 pm
Highlands , Louisville
Deb Hall wrote:So are we going to ban other bad behavior in restaurants ( people on cell calls/ conference calls, drunks, loud parties, etc) or just our next generation of restaurant go-ers?
Like Andrew's example, my son has been going to good restaurants since he was very young and is very well-behaved in restaurants. ( he also goes to bed at 10:00, so the 7:00 rule makes no sense). You get that way from exposure to environments, parental involvement and society expectations- not by being banned. So how do we reinforce correct behavior in restaurants so parents and the next generation know how to behave in restaurants? Banning will only result in less restaurant traffic and less restaurants.
Deb Hall
Foodie
4169
Sun Mar 04, 2007 4:46 pm
Highlands , Louisville
Deb Hall wrote:So well-behaved children ( and parents) are forced to sit with those misbehaving?? Not fair and still not sending the right message.
How about a separate section for those using cellphones/devices ( without headphones)? I personally love it when restaurants restrict cell phone use in order to enhance the dining experience. And find it unacceptable to have a child ( or adult) disturbing other's dinner while playing Disney movies or the latest game. Maybe that messaging would reinforce the thought that restaurants are a place to enjoy dining- not be wild and disruptive.
Deb Hall
Foodie
4169
Sun Mar 04, 2007 4:46 pm
Highlands , Louisville
Deb Hall
Foodie
4169
Sun Mar 04, 2007 4:46 pm
Highlands , Louisville
Bill Veneman
Foodie
1293
Thu Mar 01, 2007 12:35 pm
East End outside of the Watterson, but not afraid to travel for good grub
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