Smoking Not Allowed

November 8, 2007 - 5:00 PM by Stephanie

A few years back while living in San Francisco I went to a book signing with chef/author/t.v. icon Anthony Bourdain. I had read his book Kitchen Confidential and wanted to get a signed copy for my chef brother.

During Bourdain’s spiel, he went into a rant about how New York had followed California’s lead in implementing a smoking ban. “Thank you very f**g much for that one,” he added. The room exploded with laughter.

It took a few years but as of yesterday it looks like Israel is also following the lead.

Smoking in a cafe? You’ll pay NIS1000 ($250) for it. If you own the place, you’ll be fined NIS5000 ($1250) for not telling a smoking customer to snuff it OR for placing ashtrays on tables.

According to the Hebrew press, however, the smoking public doesn’t mind. A full 51.7% of smokers support a ban in entertainment spots and 48.7% support no-smoke policies in cafes and restaurants. Among the general public the figure is higher: 80% of Israelis don’t want smoking in public shared space.

From a former smoker whose habit was still in full swing when the ban went into effect: It’s easier than you think. And it’s much more pleasant to get home after a club or pub night out and be free of smoke stench.

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