The Controversial “Poor Parenting” Fee
Dining out as a family can be enjoyable, but it often presents challenges, especially when kids are involved. Parents frequently struggle to keep their children entertained and well-behaved in public, which can sometimes cause stress. A recent incident at a restaurant sparked an online debate about parenting, etiquette, and what businesses can expect from their customers.

The Incident at Toccoa Riverside Restaurant
The controversy took place at the Toccoa Riverside Restaurant, a popular dining spot in North Georgia. The restaurant is known for its scenic views and peaceful atmosphere by the Toccoa River. The issue arose when a Reddit user shared their experience, claiming that the restaurant charged them an extra $50 for “poor parenting” due to their children’s behavior.
According to the Reddit post, the owner of the restaurant, Tim Richter, told the family that they would be charged an additional fee. “I was so disappointed by the entire experience,” the user wrote. This claim quickly spread online, sparking debates about whether the policy was fair or excessive.
The Owner’s Explanation
Tim Richter responded to the growing controversy, clarifying that the “poor parenting” fee was introduced during the pandemic to help with rising costs. However, he explained that it had never actually been enforced until the recent situation. The issue came to light when a family with nine children visited the restaurant. According to Richter, the children were running around uncontrollably and disrupting the peaceful environment. Although he warned the parents about the behavior, he decided not to impose the fee.
Mixed Reactions to the Policy
The restaurant’s policy received mixed reactions. Some people found the idea of charging for children’s misbehavior unreasonable, while others felt it might encourage parents to better manage their kids. Many agreed that parents should teach their children proper behavior, especially in public places like restaurants.

In the end, the debate highlighted a broader discussion about parenting in public spaces and the expectations businesses can have for their customers.