"Only People Over Thirty Allowed"... Age Raised Sharply in 'No Kids Zone' Controversy at US Restaurant

"Measures to Reduce Residential Noise"

A restaurant in Washington DC, USA, has attracted attention by introducing a kind of American version of a 'No Kids Zone' that restricts entry to customers under 30 years old. The restaurant stated that the measure was taken to reduce noise damage in the surrounding residential area, but public reactions were mixed.

Notice of Entry Restriction for Under 30. Screenshot from cafe8 Instagram.

On the 17th (local time), the American daily Washington Post (WP) reported that 'Cafe 8,' a restaurant in the Capitol Hill area of Washington DC, has been making headlines since last month for implementing a policy restricting entry to customers under 30 years old after 8:30 PM. The restaurant announced this on Instagram on the 27th of last month, explaining, "Due to unexpected incidents, we have changed our entry policy to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all customers."

The restaurant explained that since the establishment is adjacent to a residential area, the decision was unavoidable to reduce noise disturbances nearby. The restaurant owner, Elif Saem, expressed her difficulties, saying, "They (customers under 30) park in front of the restaurant, play loud music, and have parties inside their cars."

Crimes occurring near the restaurant also influenced the new entry restriction policy. Saem revealed that a few months ago, her father was assaulted by teenagers near the restaurant, and last month, young men carrying firearms attempted to enter the restaurant. WP reported that she showed expectations that the policy would reduce disturbances, noting that older customers said, "They are easier to communicate with, do not cause problems, and have no intention to fight."

Customer reactions were divided. Some welcomed the policy with comments like "A place for adults, I like it," and "Thank goodness," while others expressed dissatisfaction, saying, "How can I wait until 2026 when I turn 30?"

There were also criticisms that the age restriction policy violates the law. The Washington DC Human Rights Act explicitly prohibits discrimination based on age, appearance, political views, and other factors. Andrew Klein, head of a local law firm frequently handling restaurant-related cases in Washington DC, pointed out, "Exceptions are allowed, such as prohibiting entry to those under 21 to prevent underage drinking, but claims that entry should be blocked for those over 21 could be problematic." He expressed concerns that some customers might file lawsuits alleging legal violations or raise issues with the city authorities regarding the restaurant's license.

The restaurant stated that they had previously consulted with the local advisory committee and police and received responses indicating no particular issues. They also clarified that customers under 30 are welcome if dining with older family members or friends.

The Washington DC police reportedly responded that they have no official record of recommending the age restriction policy to the restaurant. Additionally, the city’s Human Rights Office told WP that "while service refusal based on age is generally prohibited, exceptions are recognized when restrictions are necessary for effective business operation."