Denmark’s restaurant scene is addressing unruly behavior with a new initiative that includes a ‘table captain’ concept. Some restaurants are also using a ‘yellow card’ warning system to maintain a pleasant dining atmosphere.
The Introduction of the ‘Yellow Card’ in Copenhagen Restaurants
In an effort to maintain a pleasant dining atmosphere, several restaurants in Copenhagen, including the popular chain Madklubben and Chow Co., which owns Mæxico, Levantin, and Palazzo Diner, are implementing a system of ‘yellow cards’ for unruly guests. This innovative measure was first introduced by Madklubben in the previous year and is now gaining traction among other establishments due to ongoing issues with inappropriate guest behavior.
The Role of the Table Captain
To further ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, some restaurants have introduced a concept where a designated ‘table captain’ is responsible for managing the mood at a dining table. This role is automatically assigned to guests when they make a reservation. According to Thomas Fabricius-Bachmann, the director of Chow Co., the initiative is necessary given the rise in incidents where guests are too loud, overly intoxicated, or display disrespectful behavior.
“It’s been an ongoing problem in the restaurant industry for as long as I’ve been involved,” Fabricius-Bachmann detailed in an interview. “People often behave inappropriately, whether it’s by shouting, throwing things around, or trying to disturb others at nearby tables.”
Chow Co. and Madklubben have set expectations that will lead to the issuance of a yellow card. Although precise guidelines for issuing this warning are not yet firmly established, Fabricius-Bachmann cited inappropriate drunken behavior and instances of vomiting as potential triggers for receiving a yellow card.
The introduction of the yellow card aligns with ongoing efforts to create a dining experience that caters to everyone, allowing for celebrations without the risk of excessive intoxication. “While our all-you-can-eat and drink promotions certainly enable guests to indulge, we still want to create an experience where one can celebrate without getting completely drunk,” he noted.
Addressing Guest Behavior Directly
To further address unruly behavior, several other notable restaurants in Copenhagen, including Safari, Lamar, and Kima, inform customers at the time of booking that they have a zero-tolerance policy for disruptive actions. Since the beginning of this year, the restaurant Omar, which shares ownership with the aforementioned venues, has also enforced a similar table captain initiative, encouraging guests to be cognizant of the atmosphere and respectful of others at their table.
Anna Broe Askær, HR director at Madklubben, emphasized the need for staff to feel safe and respected while on the job. “It’s incredibly important that we accept our employees have different personal boundaries, and they should have the autonomy to speak up when they feel something is too much,” she remarked.
Promoting a Culture of Respect with the Yellow Card Policy
The yellow card policy is in its early stages, but the results so far have been encouraging. In the nine months since its implementation, fewer than a handful of yellow cards have actually been issued. However, the opportunity for open dialogue about poor guest behavior has proven vital in fostering a more secure and considerate environment for restaurant staff and customers alike.
“We don’t hand out yellow cards liberally; it’s more of a preventative tool for our staff,” Askær explained. “Our employees are reporting feeling safer at work, and that’s a significant improvement for us.”
In addition to the introduction of the yellow card system, Madklubben has made it clear that the chain will not tolerate any forms of discrimination, racism, queerphobia, harassment, or any physical or psychological violence.
The rationale behind the yellow card initiative is that what might be offensive behavior to one person may not be considered the same by someone else. This customization in understanding boundaries reflects a broader societal acknowledgment of diverse personal sensitivities.
An Evolving Initiative
As the landscape of dining experiences continues to evolve, the appetite for a respectful and enjoyable restaurant environment remains constant. With an increasing number of restaurants adopting these guidelines, it is evident that the movement toward responsible dining practices is taking shape.
Madklubben and Chow Co. are not alone in addressing inappropriate behavior in restaurants. As of now, the yellow card system is being embraced as a standard that may set a precedent for how the service industry interacts with guests moving forward.
