Nettie’s restaurant, located in Tinton Falls, New Jersey has stirred up controversy with their recent decision to no longer be a family-friendly establishment; they have banned all children under the age of ten from dining within their walls. This unexpected announcement has caused an uproar and many people are unhappy about it – going so far as to take to social media platforms to voice their opinions on this controversial issue.
On February 9, 2023, Nettie’s House of Spaghetti – which boasts an impressive 80k followers on Facebook – made a contentious declaration: they would be completely banning children come March 8th. This highly-trafficked establishment has always been known for its family-friendly atmosphere and this new decision is sure to shake up the status quo.
“We love kids. We really, truly, do. But lately, it’s been extremely challenging to accommodate children at Nettie’s. Between noise levels, lack of space for highchairs, cleaning up crazy messes, and the liability of kids running around the restaurant, we have decided that it’s time to take control of the situation. This wasn’t a decision that was made lightly, but some recent events have pushed us to implement this new policy. As of March 8, the day we return from our winter break, we will no longer allow children under 10 to dine in the restaurant.
“We know that this is going to make some of you very upset, especially those of you with very well-behaved kids, but we believe this is the right decision for our business moving forward. Thank you for understanding.”
Social media has been abuzz with parents passionately debating the restaurant’s new policy, as well as others who appreciate being surrounded by children while they enjoy a meal.
Furious patrons of Nettie’s House of Spaghetti voiced their strong opinions when the restaurant banned children from dining there. The comments on Facebook were passionate and plentiful, with one individual saying:
“Since you forgot – we were all children once. Why not ask the non-supervising parents to leave instead of punishing an entire class of patrons?” one diner stated. “A fatal business decision. As evidenced by your removal of comments on the anti-human post.”
Other customers expressed their interest in visiting a different restaurant located elsewhere in the state of New Jersey.
“This won’t work well for you. I liked your restaurant. I never brought my 8-year-old son. But every time I’m there, the children are well-behaved. I enjoyed seeing kids there with their parents. I won’t be going to your establishment anymore,” one person wrote.
“Good luck staying open with only angry know (sic) nothings who hate kids to support your business,” another person added.
Following the announcement of their child ban, Nettie’s has received an influx of damning one-star reviews.
“The restaurant is starting a new policy of banning kids under ten years old in March. Very discriminating.”
While some people may not have a negative reaction to the concept of child-free restaurants, others do.
“Fantastic idea… having worked in the industry since I was 14, I’ve never seen anything as I have in the recent past. Kids are out of control, and most parents are oblivious. The disregard for manners and common decency is unreal. I worked in F.H. and was disgusted by the behavior. Good for you for taking a stand,” one diner said.
