Bengaluru Restaurants Eye 'Table Charges' for Prolonged Real Estate and Political Chats

Tired of lingering patrons turning tables into unofficial boardrooms? Bengaluru eateries might soon charge for extended stays, especially for real estate and political discussions.

The Lingering Dilemma

A growing concern in Bengaluru's bustling restaurant scene involves patrons who occupy tables for excessive durations, often engrossed in lengthy discussions

about real estate ventures or political matters. These individuals, sometimes ordering minimal items like a single coffee, can tie up valuable seating for upwards of 45 minutes or more. This practice creates a significant challenge for restaurant owners, especially during peak service times when a constant flow of paying customers is essential for business. While staff often politely request patrons to vacate, dealing with locals can be difficult, and frequent confrontations are undesirable. Consequently, many establishments are resorting to visible signage to communicate their disappointment with such prolonged table occupancy, aiming to foster a more efficient and enjoyable dining experience for everyone.

Proposed Table Charges

In an effort to curb the issue of extended table occupation, the Bruhat Bengaluru Hotel Owner’s Association is actively discussing a controversial proposal: the implementation of 'table charges'. This initiative aims to penalize patrons who, after finishing their meals, continue to occupy seats for prolonged periods, particularly for private business or political conversations. The proposed fine ranges between Rs 500 and Rs 1,000. While no existing law explicitly grants hoteliers the authority to levy such fines, the association views this measure as a necessary step to manage customer flow and uphold the intended purpose of their establishments – dining. Some Bengaluru hotels have already begun to subtly deter such behaviour by displaying signs indicating a strict policy against prolonged discussions, setting a precedent for the potential broader adoption of these measures.

Rationale Behind the Move

The association's proposal for table charges stems from a dual concern for both operational efficiency and the overall ambiance of dining establishments. By allowing individuals to use restaurant tables as impromptu offices or meeting spaces for extended durations, businesses risk alienating other customers who are waiting for seats. This prolonged occupancy not only hampers table turnover but can also disrupt the flow of service during busy periods. Furthermore, the nature of some discussions, particularly those related to real estate deals or intense political debates, can sometimes create an uncomfortable or disruptive atmosphere for other diners. The association believes that introducing a financial disincentive will encourage patrons to be more mindful of their time spent at tables, thereby ensuring a more pleasant and productive environment for both customers and hoteliers.