Cafe 8’s decision was partly influenced by local crime, including an attack on the owner and a violent incident involving young men with guns|thecafe8dc|Instagram

Cafe 8, a Mediterranean restaurant and hookah bar in Washington’s Capitol Hill, recently adopted a policy banning patrons under 30 after 8:30 p.m. to attract an older, quieter clientele and reduce disruptions from rowdier crowds. 

The decision was partly influenced by local crime, including an attack on the owner and a violent incident involving young men with guns.

Legal concerns and city regulations
While the restaurant hopes this policy will promote a peaceful atmosphere, it may clash with D.C. law, which prohibits discrimination based on age.

The D.C. Office of Human Rights has stated that exceptions can be made if the age limit is necessary for business operations.

Mixed reactions from patrons
Cafe 8 received support from several customers online, but some younger ones voiced frustration, with one commenting on Instagram, “I GOT WAIT TILL 2026 to come back.”

Several other restaurants across the US have adopted similar age restrictions.