A restaurant owner in Sydney’s Leichhardt is determined to maintain the traditional “old school” ethos of his establishment by only accepting cash payments and not offering milk alternatives. Bar Italia, a cherished local venue, has been sticking to its cash-only policy since its inception in 1952. Owner Con Damouras explained that this decision stems from his concerns about younger generations, including his children, not knowing how to handle cash. He believes in the importance of keeping cash in circulation, especially in an increasingly digital society.
Damouras acknowledged that while some customers express disappointment and frustration over the cash-only policy, he stands firm, stating, “This is part of the institution, and we’re keeping it that way.” To accommodate patrons without cash, he installed an ATM near the restaurant, as previously, customers had to walk to a distant ATM to withdraw money.
In addition to refusing card payments, Damouras has also chosen not to offer milk alternatives, which further reinforces the traditional experience he wants to provide. Despite his unconventional approach, Bar Italia remains popular, often filled with customers waiting to be seated. According to Damouras, the cash-only policy has not deterred business significantly, asserting, “It works for us, we don’t lose many people.”
His stance aligns with a broader movement in Australia advocating for cash use, as many citizens feel strongly about keeping cash in circulation. On this note, a nationwide cash-out protest is set to take place, where around two million citizens are expected to withdraw cash and spend it at local businesses. This event, organised by the advocacy group Cash Welcome, aims to promote the importance of cash in the digital age and highlight concerns over the diminishing role of physical currency in everyday transactions.
Damouras’ commitment to an old-fashioned business model reflects a growing resistance against the rise of digital payments, showcasing how some establishments prefer to maintain their original identity amidst the rapid evolution of payment methods.