In the dimly lit corners of bars and restaurants in the city, first dates unfold with the promise of laughter, flirtation and, sometimes, unease. For many women, the question isn’t only about the food or the ambience, but whether they’ll feel safe if things go wrong. Two of the city’s restaurateurs, Gresham Fernandes of Bandra Born and Gaurav Debrai of Praia Bar & Kitchen in Worli, have decided that ensuring safety is as much a part of hospitality as pouring a drink or serving a meal.

At both restaurants, tucked discreetly inside the ladies’ restroom, a secret code is displayed. Guests who find themselves in uncomfortable situations can quietly share it with the staff. Once spoken aloud to a manager or waiter, it triggers a carefully designed system of intervention. A bad date or a pushy companion is 
quickly handled, often without others at the table ever realising what’s happening.