Should restaurants have an entry age limit for guests?

A minimum age limit for entry at bars and restaurants is not unheard of. Outlets often do this to ensure that only those at a legal drinking age are served liquor.

However, recently, Bliss Caribbean Restaurant in Missouri, USA made headlines for its unique entry rule.

In a Facebook post, they wrote, “To ensure a grown and sexy atmosphere, we require all guests to be 30 or older for women and 35 or older for men.

This policy helps us maintain a sophisticated environment, uphold our standards, and support the sustainability of our unique ambience.”

Why the age limit?

A report in The New York Times mentions that the owners of the restaurant, Tina and Marvin Pate, both 42 years old, say that the age restriction allows customers to be themselves. They say that it is not their intention to discriminate against anyone and the entry rule is just about creating an environment where older customers feel comfortable.

Is it viable for restaurants to set such an age limit for guests?

Without wishing to be named, a restaurateur with establishments across South Africa, says, “In the past, even when clubs and bars restricted entry to those below 18 years of age, it became an issue as any such rule on entry is seen as a restriction. So, no restaurant will openly come up with such a rule in South Africa. However, there are outlets that are promoting themselves with the kind of music, food or drinks that they have, to only invite guests from a certain age group. It lets guests make an informed decision.” Speaking in favour of the rule, this has become a trend now and is being done across the globe. A lot of restaurants are doing it to segregate their target age group from the rest. Those in their mid-30s or 40s will not relate to the kind of music, food or drinks that Gen Zs like and vice versa.

‘It helps to know the age group the resto is targeting’

Experts share that it is better to know which places are suitable for different age groups before they go and risk being disappointed. “Most of us have experienced going to a popular restaurant or bar, only to be disappointed because it didn’t have the type of music, food, or drinks we enjoy. I am not sure if the entry rule for a certain age group will work here, but I think restaurants should mention on social media who they are targeting – a young crowd looking for beer, finger food and a lot of dancing or those looking for a relaxed ambience,” says a restaurateurs, who has worked with F&B chains in the past. “Those in their 20s will not know why Backstreet Boys’ music connects so well with those in their 30s or 40s. They may be interested in going out for two beers and not understand the idea of a refined, exotic cocktail on the menu.”