Imagine going out for a nice dinner at a scenic, riverside restaurant, only to have your evening ruined by unruly children running amok while their parents turn a blind eye. It’s a situation many of us can relate to, and it’s something that the Toccoa Riverside Restaurant in Georgia has had enough of. In an effort to encourage better parenting, they have introduced a surcharge for “adults unable to parent.”

The decision to implement this surcharge has received mixed reactions, especially from parents. While some understand the reasoning behind it, others feel that it is unfair and unnecessary. The menu at the Toccoa Riverside Restaurant now includes a warning at the bottom, indicating that parents who fail to control their children may be charged an additional fee. While the exact amount is not specified on the menu, some Google reviews suggest that parents have been charged around $50.

Unsurprisingly, this policy has sparked controversy and numerous complaints. One diner shared their experience, saying, “The owner came out and told me he was adding $50 to my bill because of my children’s behavior. My kids watched a tablet until the food arrived, ate their food, and my wife took them outside while I waited and paid the bill. Disappointed by the experience.” Another review claimed that the owner publicly berated them, stating, “If you have children, absolutely avoid this place at all costs. The most disrespectful owner made a huge scene in front of the entire restaurant because our children were ‘running through the restaurant’ – they were down by the river. We were told we need to ‘go to Burger King and Walmart’ and that we were bad parents.”

However, the restaurant’s owner, Tim Richter, stands by his decision. He explained that the surcharge was initially introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic when a family with nine children visited and allowed their kids to run wild throughout the establishment. Richter didn’t charge them at the time but felt compelled to take action. “We want parents to be parents,” he stated.

Opinions on this controversial policy are divided. Some guests, like Laura Spillman, find it outrageous, commenting, “That is crazy. For real? I don’t think you should do it because kids are cute.” On the other hand, Anne Cox believes that the possible surcharge could serve as a reminder to parents about their responsibilities.

What are your thoughts on this policy? Do you believe it’s an effective way to address the issue of unruly children in restaurants, or do you think it’s unnecessary and unfair? Share your opinion with us!

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Source: Bored Daddy