As dining preferences evolve, a new survey indicates that a significant number of Americans are in favor of adults-only dining experiences. Conducted by Lightspeed Commerce, the survey found that 75% of respondents support some form of adults-only dining, whether through designated seating areas, late-night restrictions, or romantic settings free of children.
Changing Dining Preferences
The survey, which polled 1,000 U.S. adults, revealed strong support for restricting children during late-evening hours, with 49% of respondents in favor. Additionally, 46% supported designated adults-only sections, and another 46% believed romantic dining environments should be child-free. Alcohol-focused venues also saw support, with 43% of respondents backing restrictions in those spaces.
Adoniram Sides, senior vice president of hospitality product at Lightspeed, noted that the data reflects a broader shift in consumer expectations. “Adults-only dining is no longer a niche concept tied to luxury or exclusivity,” Sides explained. “Consumers are willing to pay for atmospheres tailored to specific occasions.”
Parental Support
Interestingly, the survey found that parents were even more supportive of adults-only dining than non-parents. This suggests that the trend is driven by changing expectations around socializing and spending nights out, rather than frustration with children.
Some restaurants have already adopted adults-only policies. Capo’s Restaurant and Speakeasy in Las Vegas transitioned to an adults-only model after initially allowing children. Owner Nico Santucci explained that the change was motivated by the desire to maintain a specific atmosphere and meet business considerations in a nightlife-oriented setting.
Balancing Atmosphere and Hospitality
Vicki Parmelee, owner of Jumby Bay Island Grill in Jupiter, Florida, shared that while her restaurant caters to families, she understands the demand for quieter seating arrangements. “I would definitely accommodate someone if they asked to be seated away from children,” Parmelee said, noting that her restaurant enforces an adults-only policy at the bar later at night for safety reasons.
Etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore emphasized the importance of respectful behavior from all diners, suggesting that restaurants focus on encouraging this rather than banning children outright. She advised diners seeking a quieter experience to advocate for themselves politely.
Ultimately, accommodating different types of guests is a key aspect of hospitality. Parmelee concluded, “Whether you are a couple wanting a quiet dinner out or a parent who wants to include children, I would try to diplomatically accommodate you.”
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
