Perceptions of the Effect of an Impending Restaurant Smoking Ban on Dining-Out Experience

Background. The introduction of bans on smoking in restaurants is frequently marred by claims that they will lead to a loss of business. Methods. A representative sample of 3,019 South Australians age 15+ years were asked questions about dining-out frequency and perceived effects of the ban on their dining-out enjoyment and restaurant patronage. Results. Sixty-one percent thought the ban would make dining out more enjoyable, 5% thought it would be less enjoyable, and 34% thought it would make no difference. Overall, 82% thought the ban would make no difference to their likelihood of dining out, 14% would be more likely to dine out, and 4% would be less likely. Conclusions. These data suggest that the public expects bans on smoking in restaurants to result in both increased enjoyment and increased patronage of restaurants.