Gia Giudice Defends Restaurant's No-Kids Policy Amid Online Backlash
The 'Real Housewives of New Jersey' personality stated her establishment, Il Vero, is intended for adult dining after receiving criticism for its policy.
Gia Giudice has defended the decision to implement a no-kids policy at her new Westwood, New Jersey, restaurant, Il Vero, after facing online criticism. The establishment, which opened earlier this month, has restricted entry for children after 5 p.m., a move that has drawn negative reviews on platforms like Google.
Giudice, 25, addressed the controversy in a TikTok video, explaining that Il Vero is specifically designed for adult dining. "While I know that might be a bummer to some who want to bring their kids out to dinner, there are many restaurants in Westwood that are kid-friendly," she stated, noting that the town is "family-oriented" but that she aimed to bring a "different" and "new atmosphere that adults were actually waiting for."
According to the restaurant's website, Il Vero offers Italian-Mediterranean cuisine and is intended to provide an "elevated" dining experience that encourages patrons to "get dressed up."
Giudice indicated that while they are not currently accepting lunch reservations, they may consider allowing children for lunch services in the future. She expressed gratitude for the support received, calling the opening "only the beginning" for her restaurant.
The backlash included comments such as "How ridiculous" from a user who noted friends were unable to try the restaurant with their children, and a prediction from another that the business "surely won't help this business. I give them 6 months."
However, the policy also garnered positive reactions from some patrons. Comments included "Best part… No screaming children running around messing up my fancy dinner" and "I love a restaurant that caters to adults and not children. Perfect date night!" One reviewer described the eatery as "grown and sexy."
Giudice shared during a recent appearance on Page Six's "Virtual Real-Tea" that her vision for Il Vero was to bring "New York City vibes to New Jersey." She also mentioned spending a significant amount of time at the restaurant, enjoying seeing her concept come to life.