Dining out with kids can be challenging for parents and disruptive for others. A North Georgia restaurant, Toccoa Riverside Restaurant, has ignited controversy by allegedly fining parents for their children’s behavior.

A Reddit user claimed they were charged $50 for their kids’ conduct. However, restaurant owner Tim Richter clarified that while a surcharge was introduced during COVID-19, it had not been enforced recently. He admitted warning one family whose nine children were running around but ultimately didn’t apply the fee.

Reactions were mixed. Some, like Laura Spillman, called the idea “crazy,” while others, like Anne Cox, saw potential in encouraging better behavior. Federico Gambineri, dining with a toddler, expressed concerns about the fairness of such a policy, while regular customer Jack Schneider believed parents should take responsibility.

The debate highlights differing views on balancing family dining with respect for others.