Toccoa Riverside Restaurant in North Georgia has ignited a fierce
debate after introducing a policy that charges parents for their
children’s disruptive behavior. Located near Blue Ridge, this unusual
measure has sparked widespread online discussion, with opinions split
over the fairness of imposing a “parenting fine.”
One dissatisfied customer shared their experience on Reddit, stating,
“The owner told me he was adding $50 to my bill due to my children’s
behavior.” This post quickly gained traction, prompting the restaurant’s
owner, Tim Richter, to address the controversy.
Richter clarified that while the restaurant did implement a surcharge
during the COVID-19 pandemic to offset increased costs, they have never
actually fined anyone for their children’s conduct. He recounted a
specific incident involving a family with nine particularly unruly
children, noting that the family was warned but not fined.
The restaurant’s intention, according to Richter, is to encourage
responsible parenting: “We want parents to be parents.” Reactions to
this policy, however, have been mixed. Visitor Laura Spillman voiced her
disbelief, saying, “That is crazy. Kids are cute; you shouldn’t charge
for that.” Conversely, Anne Cox viewed the potential fee as a reminder
for parents to teach their children proper etiquette, stating, “Parents
need to teach kids etiquette. They need to understand that there are
other people in the world.”
Another patron, Federico Gambineri, who visited the restaurant with
his toddler, expressed concerns about the policy, noting, “If I were
charged, I would be unhappy and probably not recommend the place.”
Regular customer Jack Schneider offered a more balanced perspective,
acknowledging that most people have experienced dining near disruptive
children but ultimately placing the responsibility on the parents.
Located along the peaceful Toccoa River and surrounded by mountains,
the restaurant is a popular spot for those seeking a serene dining
experience. However, this incident has led patrons and the public alike
to reconsider what constitutes acceptable behavior in a public dining
space. As the conversation continues, it remains uncertain whether
Toccoa Riverside Restaurant will revise its controversial policy.
