Prague bans late-night outdoor dining, forcing patrons indoors after 10 p.m.

Prague has implemented a city-wide ban on outdoor seating for restaurants and bars after 10 p.m., ending a long-standing exception that allowed establishments to serve patrons outdoors later into the evening. The decision, which affects numerous businesses across the city, requires customers to move indoors once the new curfew takes effect.

The measure is intended to address growing concerns over noise and disturbances in residential neighborhoods, particularly during the late evening hours. City officials stated that the blanket cancellation of permits aims to restore peace and quiet for residents living near popular dining and drinking establishments.

Many businesses had relied on the extended outdoor seating hours, especially during warmer months, to accommodate more customers and enhance their ambiance. The abrupt cancellation of these permits has caused frustration among some business owners who argue it will negatively impact their revenue and customer experience.

While the specific details of the implementation and any potential grace periods were not elaborated upon in the provided text, the directive signifies a shift in Prague's approach to managing public spaces and the balance between commercial activity and residential quality of life.