You know, I have no problem sharing restaurant space with kids. Then again, I've never been anywhere I couldn't wear jeans, so there you have it.
WOW at Violet's stories! Both women had a lot of nerve! When I get a mani/pedi, I always bring headphones so I can zone out. The salon does accept children and I've seen people look annoyed with them. I went this week and there were little girls running around. However, the music serves its purpose here--I could see them but not hear them.
Honestly, I think toddlers are too young. You can bring the children who can control their crying--with babies/toddlers, they just explode and they stop when they stop. With older kids (5+) it boils down to behavior, not age.