Must a restaurant with less than 16 seats provide an accessible patron bathroom?

In this context, the correct response indicates that restaurants with less than 16 seats are not legally required to provide an accessible patron bathroom. The law often recognizes smaller establishments, especially those with fewer seats, as having different requirements compared to larger restaurants. This is based on the understanding that the operational size and capacity of such venues may limit the feasibility of installing accessible bathrooms without compromising other aspects of the establishment.

Additionally, while providing accessible facilities is a best practice and highly recommended for inclusivity and customer service, the legal requirement may not apply to very small establishments. This is an important consideration for food managers when assessing compliance with regulations regarding accessibility. Understanding these nuances is crucial for effective management and ensuring that the restaurant meets both the letter of the law and best practices in customer service.