A Northern California restaurant has drawn significant attention for its policy of fining parents for property damage incurred by their children. Chez Xue, located in Foster City, implemented the policy over a year ago but recently went viral after a social media post of the notice. The establishment aims to ensure a respectful dining environment by holding parents accountable for their children's actions.
The notice posted at Chez Xue states, "Please control your children. Chez Xue is a family-friendly restaurant. However, we are not a playground. Please ensure children REMAIN SEATED at all times and respectful of fellow guests and the dining environment. Running around, shouting, making noise with utensils, etc. WILL NOT BE TOLERATED! Guests not respecting this policy may be asked to leave. We will hold parents financially liable for all damage caused by their children to restaurant property."
Owner You You Xue told Fox News Digital that the policy is based on common sense and was prompted by a deterioration in children's behavior at the restaurant over the past year. He cited instances of children running through the dining area, climbing on outdoor umbrellas, and carving designs into custom wooden tables. In one specific case, a child broke a credit card machine, costing the restaurant $327 for its replacement.
Xue clarified that the policy is not a fine but a measure to ensure basic respect within the establishment. He noted that the majority of customers have been supportive, and approximately 98% of children dining at his restaurant are well-behaved. He has no plans to ban children and encourages parents to treat dining out as an opportunity to teach children manners and respect for public spaces.
Etiquette experts have weighed in on the debate, with Diane Gottsman, founder of the Protocol School of Texas, stating that businesses have the right to set expectations for customer behavior. She emphasized that maintaining a hygienic and appetizing environment is crucial for business. Jan Goss, a professional development expert, added that restaurants offer valuable opportunities for parents to teach children patience and consideration for others, highlighting that allowing children to run freely poses a safety risk.
Some media reports have inaccurately characterized the policy as a fine. Xue reiterated that it is about ensuring respect and preventing a few unruly individuals from disrupting the experience for other patrons. He likened respecting a restaurant to respecting someone else's home, stressing transparency with customers.