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Mġarr Restaurant’s Decision To Ban Under 18s Sparks Debate: ‘It Wasn’t Easy But Had To Be Done’

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One Mġarr restaurant’s decision to ban children from its establishment has courted some significant controversy online, but it believes it’s the only way forward for the eatery. 

Bohini, a small 14-table coffee shop and bistro, nestled behind the Mġarr church made a name for itself by using mostly local produce and creating a homely atmosphere. 

However, its latest announcement that people under 18 will not be allowed in sparked a pretty strong reaction. 

“Used to be a nice place to go, but seems like my family is not welcome there anymore,” one person wrote. 

But others, like Bonini, welcomed the decision, insisting that while it’s great to have family-focused restaurants around the island, sometimes it’s just as good to have spots that are kid-free.

“If I leave my kids behind I don’t want to have to deal with those of others. When I go out with the kids there are a million other options,” one commenter said. 

On its part, Bohini made it clear that it was not an easy decision to take, but it was crucial to preserve the peacefulness and tranquillity it looks to create.

“We are aware that not all children should be put under the same umbrella, but unfortunately, when dealing with issues like these, the good has to always suffer with the bad,” it said. 

“[Our restaurant is small] and we have been faced with children being left unattended and running around in the restaurant. This is a danger both for our staff trying to carry out their job, as well as for the children themselves.”

“This also tends to annoy other customers visitng us at that time, who like to come here for the peaceful and tranquil vibes.”

However, it said that certain parents also played a major role in its decision. 

“Certain parents understand and gladly move out of the establishment to an area which is less busy, however, others have written false reviews as well as bad-mouthing us on a personal level and insulted us regarding our sexuality,” it said.

“We always try to calm the situation down and confront our clients in a mature and respectful way.”

“We have taken this action based on the primary reason Bohini first opened its doors. That is, to create a welcoming, peaceful, calm environment people can enjoy with their friends as well as making new friends here!”

“We would like to thank everyone for their comments, good or bad, as we believe we can learn from each other and that is the way forward. More importantly, we would like to send lots and lots of love to our regular children who we have gotten to know and love, you will all be missed.”

Do you agree with Bohini’s stance?

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Julian is the former editor of Lovin Malta and has a particular interest in politics, the environment, social issues, and human interest stories.

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