iPad ban during meals backfiring

Tried the "no screens at dinner table" rule like a month ago. Made sense on paper - more family time. In practice? My 7yo complains the ENTIRE meal, my 5yo gets antsy, and my wife and I end up stressed instead of relaxed. Last night I caved and let them watch a show on their tablets at the table. Dinner was PEACEFUL. I know I'm supposed to be the one enforcing boundaries but... is this really the hill? What are y'all doing?