What is the authenticity of the hadith that prohibits eating in the marketplaces, and does that include hotels and restaurants?

First: No authentic hadith prohibits eating in the marketplace. The well-known hadiths regarding this are very weak, and nothing has been authentically reported from the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, concerning this matter.

Second: Eating in the marketplace does not have a single ruling; rather, it varies depending on the markets, customs, traditions, and individuals. What people accept from one person, they might not accept from another. Therefore, there is no harm in eating in hotels and restaurants if it is customary or acceptable. However, if a person is not accustomed to it, or if people of honor in his country disdain it, then he should not do so unless there is a necessity.

Third: Whoever needs to enter restaurants and hotels must beware of the prevalent Sharia violations, temptations, and reprehensible acts found therein. Some scholars have forbidden this due to the corruption and temptations it leads to.