[kgermino]

I know of quite a few places in Chicago with a mid-20's minimum age. To my knowledge it has nothing to do with any legal requirements but is based on the idea that slightly older people are less rowdy/better able to handle their drinks.

When I was 21/22 I rarely had a problem getting passed the bouncers in places with the higher age limits because "you don't look like you're going to do anything stupid"

[verboten]

Legality aside, because I don't doubt it is legal, something about the deliberate act of posting an age makes me deeply uncomfortable.

What I don't quite understand is they can turn away anyone for any [non-protected] reason already. What could be the thought process behind posting this? Especially when the establishment is unlikely to enforce it, as you noted.

As an establishment, feel free to turn away a large, intoxicated group. Similarly, it is your right and responsibility to avoid over-serving. And furthermore, you may choose to establish whatever ambiance you choose through your decor, music, lighting, and even pricing. Between these things, you can maintain the atmosphere and attract the customer base you desire.

[kgermino]

I think it just makes things easier. Sure people over 25 are still capable of causing problems, but I’d bet they are much less likely to be trouble and much more likely to politely leave when told they are. It also makes things much easier at the door. If a group of college kids decide to show up one night it’s much easier to say “can’t let you in, too young [and I don’t make the rules]” than “won’t let you in, I don’t want to have to kick you out.” It lets the bouncer deflect the decision and appeal to an authority that’s not in the conversation.