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Bengaluru café’s new policy stirs controversy�?here’s why people are talking

Bengaluru café’s new policy stirs controversy�?here’s why people are talking

TOI Trending Desk / etimes.in / Updated: Mar 10, 2025, 23:42 IST

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Some customers feel that they should be free to talk about anything, as long as they’re paying for their meal. Others, however, appreciate the effort to maintain a peaceful environment where everyone can enjoy their time without being dragged into intense conversations. In the end, this debate over what’s appropriate to discuss at a restaurant is just another reflection of how the dining culture is evolving, and it’s a conversation that’s far from over.

Bengaluru café’s new policy stirs controversy�?here’s why people are talking

In a city that thrives on debates about politics, real estate, and everything in between, one Bengaluru restaurant has stirred up a conversation of its own�?but this time, it's about what not to talk about. A restaurant in South Bengaluru has put up a sign that’s capturing attention online. The rule? No discussions about politics or real estate allowed while dining.
A user on X (formerly Twitter) shared a photo of the sign, which reads: “This facility is only for dine-in purpose, not for real estate/political discussions. Please understand and cooperate.�?This simple request, while seemingly straightforward, has sparked an online debate, with people questioning whether such restrictions are necessary or a bit too much.
A familiar scene for Bengaluru diners?

While this rule may seem unusual to some, many locals quickly recognized that it's not an entirely new concept in Bengaluru’s restaurant culture. In fact, it's something that’s popped up in other spots around the city as well. Diners, especially in cafes, tend to linger for hours with minimal purchases, often monopolizing space with long, loud conversations. One frustrated user shared their experience, saying, “It’s incredibly annoying when groups sit at cafes like CCD, order just a few coffees, and then go on for hours with loud discussions. It ruins the vibe for others trying to enjoy a quiet meal.�?br/>Another person chimed in, recalling a similar rule at another Bengaluru spot, “I remember seeing this kind of sign at A2B in Yelahanka.�?These comments suggest that it’s becoming somewhat of a trend in popular cafes to keep things more relaxed and less disruptive.
Divided reactions: Is it an overreach or a necessary step?

Unsurprisingly, the rule has split opinions. While some people agree with the restaurant’s approach to keeping the atmosphere calm, others feel it's an overstep. One user questioned the need for such a policy, saying, “Why does the restaurant need to control what people talk about? They’re paying for the food, so they should be allowed to discuss whatever they like.�?
However, many others supported the idea, arguing that certain topics, particularly politics and real estate, often spark intense debates and can create a disruptive environment in a shared space.
Why these two topics: Real estate and politics?
You might wonder why the restaurant chose to target these specific topics. It seems the idea behind the rule is to maintain a peaceful atmosphere for all diners. Politics and real estate are known for sparking long, heated discussions that can easily take over a table�?and even an entire restaurant. For a place where people are trying to relax and enjoy their meal, such discussions can be uncomfortable for others who just want to eat in peace.
By asking patrons to steer clear of these subjects, the restaurant is trying to ensure that everyone can enjoy their time without being caught in the middle of a loud, potentially confrontational debate.
The new era of restaurant etiquette?

This isn’t just about food; it’s about creating an experience. As dining habits shift, many restaurants are focusing on providing an atmosphere that feels comfortable for everyone, not just the loudest group in the room. In a bustling city like Bengaluru, where cafes and restaurants can get crowded, it’s easy for certain conversations to take over and disrupt the dining experience. The question now is whether more places will follow suit with similar policies, and whether customers will embrace or resist such changes.
The fine line between public freedom and dining etiquette
This restaurant's request might seem a bit unusual, but it underscores a broader conversation about our expectations for public spaces. Some diners believe they should have the freedom to discuss any topic as long as they're paying customers. On the other hand, others value the attempt to create a tranquil atmosphere where everyone can enjoy their time without being drawn into intense discussions.
Ultimately, this debate highlights the evolving dynamics of dining etiquette. While some see the rule as unnecessary, others appreciate the effort to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. Whether more restaurants adopt similar policies remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—where people gather, discussions will always follow.

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