Arkaba Quiet Dinner Group 

As part of our partnership with the Australian Hotels Association SA we’ve been connecting with venues to help make them more inclusive for the Autistic community. Adelaide’s iconic Arkaba Hotel was the first to kick off its inclusive actions by introducing Quiet Dinners on the first Monday of each month.
 
Our Autism Liaison Officer Kaitlin Withers says it is a great initiative to help the Autistic community and their families and friends feel more welcomed, comfortable and importantly, included, in something that many people take for granted.

The Quiet Dinner will take place on the first Monday of each month in one of the Arkaba’s break-out function rooms. This room will be specifically set-up with dimmed lighting, reduced sound and no TV. A private bar will be open in Fullarton for all food & drink orders, allowing customers to order without having to navigate the busyness of the main dining areas.

These measures have been put in place after consulting with members of the autism community to determine what kinds of measures could make a venue more inclusive for autistic patrons. 
 
Many people don’t think twice about going out for dinner, but for the Autistic community it can be an overwhelming experience. 58% of autistic individuals avoid going to pubs due to crowds and noise levels. We want everyone to be able to enjoy SA’s fabulous venues and are committed to educating venues on how to make safer and more inclusive spaces. 
 
The Arkaba is the first of the Australian Hotels Association (SA) members we have worked with on this very special project. We are looking forward to working with other SA venues in the near future and spreading this initiative.

The Arkaba’s Quiet Dinners started on Monday 5 February. To book and or view the access guide visit Quiet Dinner – Arkaba Hotel