The Old Fisherman's Grotto in Monterey, Calif. has been making the nightly news this week for their harsh policy on children dining at their restaurant. The policy is listed on their website and it says:
“No Strollers. No High Chairs. No Booster Chairs. Children crying or making loud noises are a distraction to other diners and, as such are not allowed in the dining room.”
And the reaction to this new ban has been mostly negative…against parents who bring their children into nice restaurants. As if!
Alas, the ban is not illegal and the owner has every right to enforce it. He also has every right to fancy himself a “Singing in the Rain” kind of guy.
While an eatery with the name “Old Fisherman's Grotto” does not conjure up a fancy, five-star atmosphere that could be ruined by the presence of children, the restaurant does have prime harbor views and a vast array of seafood and steak entrees. Old Fisherman's Grotto also claims to be the originator of the Monterey Style Clam Chowder. Perhaps more importantly, the restaurant has a full bar, an extensive wine list and “exotic” libations.
So while you can cross this place off your list of places to eat with the kids in Monterey, you can add it to the list for date night restaurants.
What do you think of this restaurant's ban on children? Is the owner just a hater or does it make some sense? Sound off in comments below!
