Going to Restaurants on Sundays Sinful?

You mention going to a restaurant on Sunday without necessity, yet doing so would most likely not be necessary.

In any event, eating at a restaurant is not sinful, let a mortal sin. Along with sports and other activities, the Church recognizes that eating at a restaurant is a traditional way many in the modern world commemorate the Lord’s Day. At the same time, the Church provides:

Sanctifying Sundays and holy days requires a common effort. Every Christian should avoid making unnecessary demands on others that would hinder them from observing the Lord’s Day. Traditional activities (sport, restaurants, etc.), and social necessities (public services, etc.), require some people to work on Sundays, but everyone should still take care to set aside sufficient time for leisure. With temperance and charity the faithful will see to it that they avoid the excesses and violence sometimes associated with popular leisure activities. In spite of economic constraints, public authorities should ensure citizens a time intended for rest and divine worship. Employers have a similar obligation toward their employees (CCC 2187).

In addition, we can commend those restaurant owners who close on Sundays so that their employees can more fully participate in the Lord’s Day. For more on observing the Lord’s Day, please see our article.