It’s quite common for people to visit restaurants, order just a coffee or tea, and sit for hours even after finishing their drink. However, this can stop restaurants from giving a table to waiting customers. To manage this issue, Bengaluru cafes may soon start adding ‘table charges’, as proposed by the Bruhat Bengaluru Hotel Owners’ Association (BBHOA). Scroll down to know more!
Bengaluru Cafes Might Soon Add Table Charges
It’s common in restaurants to see some customers occupy tables for too long without ordering much. Many just sit, gossip with friends, or discuss business for hours. But what about the other customers waiting outside? Well, they are left waiting. NDTV reported that to tackle this issue, the BBHOA has proposed introducing “table charges.” Under this plan, customers at Bengaluru cafes who refuse to leave after a certain time may have to pay a penalty between ₹500 and ₹1000.
As per The Indian Express, a hotel owner from Kengeri said that groups of three or four people often order just two or three cups of coffee and continue long discussions. He shared that this happens almost every day. Owners find it hard to repeatedly ask them to leave, especially when they are locals. At the same time, they want to avoid unnecessary arguments or conflicts.
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No Final Rule Has Been Passed
According to NDTV, PC Rao, President of the Bruhat Bengaluru Hotel Owners’ Association, said that when one table is occupied for too long, restaurants lose other customers who are waiting. He believes this also affects the overall vibe of the place. If owners stay silent, it may seem like they are encouraging this behaviour.
The proposal is still in its early stages. The association plans to approach the government with a formal request soon. For now, no final rule has been passed. Interestingly, some hotels in Bengaluru have already taken small steps. They have put up signboards mentioning a strict no-discussion policy to avoid long informal meetings.
How do you feel about Bengaluru cafes possibly charging for long stays? Comment below!
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