More Americans are embracing the idea of dining in child-free environments, and surprisingly, many parents support this trend. A recent survey by Lightspeed Commerce, which included 1,000 US adults, revealed that 75% think restaurants should have adults-only options. This could mean separate seating, late-night restrictions, or romantic settings free from children.
Interest in these dining experiences is particularly strong during the evening. Almost half of those surveyed (49%) liked the idea of restricting children during late hours, while 46% wanted designated adults-only areas. Additionally, 43% supported restrictions at venues focused on alcohol.
Adoniram Sides, from Lightspeed, said this shows a shift in how people view dining out. “Adults-only dining isn’t just for luxury anymore,” he noted. More restaurants are curating experiences for special occasions, creating atmospheres that appeal to diners seeking something unique.
Interestingly, parents themselves are among the strongest supporters of these policies. “This suggests a shift in social expectations,” Sides pointed out, highlighting that parents are adapting their social lives to include more adults-only settings.
Some restaurants are already leaning into this trend. At Capo’s Restaurant and Speakeasy in Las Vegas, owner Nico Santucci explained that they allowed children initially but changed to an adults-only model to foster a comfortable atmosphere. “In a speakeasy, folks want to relax and talk openly,” he said. He noted change came from wanting to maintain a certain vibe, especially in a nightlife-centric space.
However, exceptions can be made for longtime customers with teens. “I’m not going to turn away business,” Santucci added.
Restaurant owners are navigating the delicate balance between creating a tranquil dining experience and maintaining hospitality. Vicki Parmelee, who runs Jumby Bay Island Grill in Florida, serves many families but understands why some diners request quieter sections. “I accommodate requests without hesitation,” she said. Her restaurant has even designated adults-only spaces late at night for safety, particularly concerning minors.
Etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore emphasizes the importance of respectful behavior across the board, not just from families. She believes dining is a social experience that can teach children proper behavior. “Parents should be mindful of how their kids behave in public spaces,” she suggested.
Whitmore also encourages diners to advocate for themselves. “My husband and I often ask for a ‘quiet table’ when dining out,” she explained. Politeness goes a long way in making such requests.
Ultimately, the goal of hospitality is to cater to everyone’s needs. Parmelee summed it up well: “Every guest’s experience is valuable. Whether you’re a couple looking for peace or a family enjoying time together, I aim to meet your needs diplomatically.”
As social dining evolves, it will be interesting to see how restaurants refine their approaches to suit varied preferences and improve overall experiences. This trend reflects not just a desire for quieter dining but an evolving understanding of how we share social spaces.
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Lifestyle,adults,casual dining,children,restaurants,surveys
