A Canadian dad claims his favorite restaurant is discriminating against families by not providing high chairs for infants. Taking kids out for meals can be quite the challenge, especially when a restaurant isn’t set up for little ones. While many parents might choose to avoid an unaccommodating spot, one father decided to take action. This story revolves around a Vancouver-based Earls Kitchen and Bar, which is now facing a human rights hearing after dad Alex Thompson alleged that staff at two different locations told him they do not provide high chairs.
In February, Thompson attempted to enjoy a meal at an Earls location, only to be informed, according to court documents reviewed by CBC News, that high chairs were unavailable. When he visited a different location later that month, he faced the same response.
Earls representatives, however, assert that they do not have a strict policy against high chairs and that families are always welcome. A spokesperson for the chain, Lisa Carter, explained in an email that approximately half of their locations do have high chairs and boosters, but availability varies based on the clientele in each area. “We do not restrict high chairs,” she clarified, adding that requests for them are uncommon at certain sites.
The restaurant claims that Thompson was offered a spacious booth, allowing him to hold his baby in his lap or place them beside him, but he rejected that option due to concerns it would be “stressful” and “less enjoyable.” Let’s be honest here—dining out with a one-year-old can be a bit chaotic, regardless of the availability of high chairs.
While it’s understandable to expect consistency in amenities across different locations, labeling the situation as discrimination and escalating it to a human rights hearing seems excessive. Ultimately, whether or not a restaurant provides high chairs is their choice, and if it doesn’t meet your needs, simply choose another place to dine. Parenting is tough, and it’s a bummer that not every eatery can cater to every need, but that doesn’t equate to discrimination. High chairs may be convenient, but they are not a fundamental right.
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In summary, a dad is seeking a human rights hearing against Earls Kitchen and Bar for not providing high chairs, which the restaurant disputes, claiming no such policy exists. The situation raises questions about restaurant accommodations for families.