Beginning June 25, 2026, adults in the UK will be able to order children's meals at pubs and restaurants while benefiting from a reduced VAT rate of 5%. This temporary VAT cut, which lasts until September 1, aims to alleviate financial pressures on families during the summer holiday. The measure allows pubs and restaurants to avoid age verification for customers ordering from children's menus, simplifying operations. Typical children's meals, priced between £4.99 and £8.95, could see savings of up to £1 per meal if the full VAT reduction is passed on to customers. The HMRC has clarified that eligibility for the reduced VAT depends on how meals are marketed rather than the age of the customer. However, the policy has faced criticism from some hospitality operators who argue that it favors establishments with dedicated children's menus, potentially disadvantaging family-friendly venues without such options. The announcement comes amid growing calls for broader VAT reforms in the hospitality sector, with celebrity chef Tom Kerridge advocating for a reduction to 10% to enhance competitiveness.