Bar Owner Faces Backlash Over Solo Drinking Policy

A bar owner has come under fire for posting a video that mocks customers who have criticized his ban on late-night solo drinkers, a policy that has sparked an international discussion.

Carl Peters, who manages Alibi, a cocktail and karaoke venue in Altrincham, UK, announced in an Instagram video earlier this month that he has enforced a rule prohibiting one-person entries after 9 PM since opening in 2022.

In his initial video, which received over 10,000 views, Peters accused a late-night patron of discrimination after the man pointed out a “No Single Entry” sign, comparing the rule to racial discrimination against black and Asian individuals.

Peters recalled telling the customer, “Please don’t bring your hot agenda here,” acknowledging that the comment was likely to aggravate him further.

The man reportedly claimed he wasn’t “awake” following this exchange. Peters then provocatively asked if he needed an adult to explain why the bar had such entry regulations late at night.

The bar owner insists that his policy is driven by concerns about liability. He pointed out that if a solo patron were to suffer a medical issue, like a fall or seizure, staff might not notice immediately in a packed venue, potentially causing disruption or annoyance among other guests.

“You don’t participate unless you’re in a group and we know who you’re with,” he stated.

However, after posting the video, many commenters criticized the policy as “pathetic” and “narrow-minded.” Some argued that even those who work late should be able to enjoy a drink alone without problem, while others felt the rule unfairly targets introverts or individuals who prefer solitude.

Conversely, some found the rule reasonable. One commenter, a mother of two adult daughters, expressed her support, saying, “Safety in numbers.”

As the backlash grew, Peters released a follow-up video intended to clarify the situation, which he called “totally un-article.” He explained that the policy applies only during peak hours and that solo customers are welcome earlier in the evening. “This is standard procedure in nightlife,” he remarked, asserting, “We’re not reinventing the wheel.”

In his ongoing rebuttals to critics, he acknowledged the contributions of “keyboard warriors in curry-stained vests” to the conversation.

Peters expressed mild surprise and curiosity about the public’s response, saying, “Twenty-four hours ago, who would have had an opinion on whether or not a bar would allow a person alone in a late-night establishment?”

He maintains that the issue is “not a story,” confirming that his venue will continue to prioritize a safe and responsible operation. “As usual,” he added.