Imagine sitting in a restaurant and finding exactly what you want on the kids’ menu: chicken nuggets, grilled cheese, macaroni and cheese, or a small burger. You may not be very hungry, you may want to spend less, or you may simply prefer a smaller portion. But when you ask to order it, the server might respond, “Is that for a child?” That simple question has created plenty of debate about whether adults should be allowed to choose meals intended for children.

There are several practical reasons adults may want kids’ meals. Restaurant portions can be large, and ordering a smaller meal can help prevent food from being wasted. Price is another major factor, since children’s meals are often considerably cheaper than regular entrées. Some adults also simply enjoy the simpler foods found on children’s menus. As the article puts it, “Sometimes you just want what you want.” A smaller portion can also be useful for older adults or people who cannot comfortably eat a full-sized meal.

Restaurants, however, may have their own reasons for restricting these meals. Kids’ menus are often priced lower as part of a business strategy designed to attract families. The restaurant may expect adults to order more expensive entrées, drinks, or desserts. If groups of adults regularly ordered only the cheapest meals, that pricing model could become less practical. For that reason, some restaurants set age limits for children’s meals.

The biggest issue may simply be transparency. If adults are not allowed to order from the kids’ menu, the restaurant should clearly state that on the menu. Customers should not discover the restriction only after placing an order. Some restaurants could also offer half portions or smaller adult meals, giving customers another choice without relying on a children’s menu.

Ultimately, restaurants can decide how their menus and prices work, while customers can decide where to eat. Adults may have legitimate reasons for wanting smaller, cheaper, or simpler meals, while restaurants may have legitimate business reasons for setting restrictions. A clear policy can prevent awkward situations, and a smaller adult portion could provide a useful middle ground for customers who simply do not want a full-sized entrée.