Dining out as a family can be a delightful experience—a chance to enjoy good food and create lasting memories. However, ensuring that these outings are pleasant for both your family and fellow diners requires some mindfulness. A recent incident at Dragon Pizza in Somerville, Massachusetts, where a group of parents was asked to leave due to their children’s disruptive behavior, highlights the importance of supervising children in restaurants.
The Dragon Pizza Incident: A Lesson in Supervision
On March 14, 2025, Charlie Redd, owner of Dragon Pizza, asked a group of parents to leave his establishment because their unsupervised children were disrupting other patrons and disrespecting the dining area. Redd emphasized that while his restaurant welcomes children, it is not a place for unsupervised play.
This incident sparked mixed reactions online. Some supported the restaurant’s stance, appreciating the effort to maintain a pleasant dining environment. Others felt the action was too harsh, suggesting that restaurants should be more accommodating to families.
Tips for a Respectful Dining Experience with Children
To ensure a positive dining experience for your family and those around you, consider the following guidelines:
Choose Family-Friendly Restaurants: Opt for establishments that welcome children and offer amenities like high chairs, kids’ menus, and a casual atmosphere. This sets the stage for a comfortable experience for both your family and other diners.
Prepare Your Children: Before heading out, discuss restaurant manners with your children. Explain the importance of using indoor voices, staying seated, and being polite to staff and other patrons.
Bring Activities: To keep children occupied while waiting for food, bring quiet activities such as coloring books, puzzles, or small toys. This helps prevent restlessness and potential disruptions.
Supervise at All Times: Always keep an eye on your children to ensure they are not disturbing other diners or staff. If you need to step away, designate another adult to supervise in your absence.
Manage Messes: Accidents happen, but it’s courteous to address any mess your child makes. While servers typically handle spills and dropped food, offering to assist with cleanup shows respect for the establishment and its staff. Additionally, leaving a generous tip when extra cleanup is required is a thoughtful gesture.
Address Disruptive Behavior Promptly: If your child becomes noisy or unsettled, step outside with them until they calm down. This minimizes disruption and shows consideration for other diners.
Time Your Visit Wisely: Choose dining times that align with your child’s routine to avoid hunger-induced crankiness. Early dinners or lunches are often less crowded, resulting in shorter wait times and a more relaxed environment.
Be Mindful of the Setting: While many restaurants welcome children, some fine dining establishments may not be suitable for young kids. Assess the restaurant’s ambiance and clientele to determine if it’s an appropriate choice for your family.
Final Thoughts
Dining out with children doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By choosing appropriate venues, preparing your children, and practicing considerate behavior, you can enjoy a pleasant meal while respecting the dining experience of others. Remember, restaurants are shared spaces, and a little mindfulness goes a long way in ensuring everyone leaves with a smile.
