Couple says restaurant fined them for ‘poor parenting’ – the restaurant owner then reveals the truth.
A North Georgia restaurant, Toccoa Riverside Restaurant near Blue Ridge, has stirred controversy by introducing a policy of fining customers for perceived ‘poor parenting’ regarding their children’s behavior. The policy came to light when a Reddit user shared their experience of being informed of an additional $50 charge due to their children’s behavior. However, the restaurant owner, Tim Richter, clarified that the surcharge was implemented to cover COVID-19-related expenses and was not meant as a threat. Richter explained that the surcharge was only mentioned after a particularly disruptive visit from a family with nine children, although no customer was ultimately charged.
Opinions on the policy are divided among customers. Some, like Laura Spillman from Florida, find it excessive, while others, like Anne Cox, believe it could incentivize parents to teach their children better behavior in public spaces. Federico Gambineri expressed concern about the unpredictability of young children’s behavior and hoped to avoid such charges in the future. Regular patron Jack Schneider had mixed feelings, acknowledging the challenge of disruptive children but also emphasizing parental responsibility.
The debate over this policy sparks discussion about parenting in public spaces and the responsibility of establishments in managing disruptive behavior. Share your thoughts in the comments to contribute to the conversation.
