A sandwich, a couple of appetizers, a cooler, and some beach chairs: having dinner on the Malvarrosa beach promenade when the heat is on is a plan as simple as it is classic in Valencia. However, this summer, tension between restaurant and bar owners and local residents has sparked a debate over whether the beach promenade should remain a free space for eating and drinking or whether areas farther away from the establishments should be designated for this purpose.
Beach bar and restaurant owners believe this practice reduces their revenue and customer foot traffic and harms them for various reasons. The main complaints stem from the proximity of some tables and chairs to the outdoor seating areas, a lack of cleanliness and hygiene on the part of residents, and the negative impression tourists take away from the city.
Restaurant owners propose, as a solution, the creation of freely accessible areas for those who want to enjoy an al fresco dinner, as well as the installation of more restrooms and public facilities that do not interfere with their business operations.
Most residents believe these complaints are unjustified and that the boardwalk is a public space where people have always been allowed to set up folding chairs and tables for gatherings and meals.
