Belsize Park cafe owner stands firm after banning laptops at weekends

A file image of England's Lane in Belsize Park, where the England's Lane cafe has banned weekend customers using laptops and iPads
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Liam Coleman11 November 2019

The owner of a cafe who banned weekend customers from using laptops and iPads insisted today she will crack down on the rules despite a row.

Mojgan Mohajer, of England’s Lane cafe in Belsize Park, had become “upset” by customers failing to make conversation with each other because they were glued to their devices.

But some customers criticised the ban. Francesca Specter, 28, said she was left “flustered and humiliated” after being asked to stop using her iPad to read a Sunday newspaper.

Ms Specter, who blogs about the positive sides of being alone, said the policy discriminates against customers without company.

But Ms Mohajer said she had no regrets. “I want people to enjoy their time when they come here and talk to each other,” she said.

“I decided not to have laptops and iPads on weekends because I’ve had complaints from other families who don’t like it.

“To keep everybody happy and satisfied I kept the weekdays for the laptops and weekends for the families.

“I am going to keep enforcing my policy, maybe even stronger than before.”

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