"When we were seated, we waited for 20 minutes, had drinks on the table, and had already ordered appetizers. However, the manager approached our table and insisted that I remove my hooded sweatshirt. Unfortunately, I wasn't wearing anything underneath, so taking it off wasn't an option. After ordering food and having wine on the table, the manager basically told us that we would not be served any further and needed to leave.
It's important to note that both the host and our server were fully aware of my attire when they seated us and chose to serve us regardless. It was one of the most embarrassing moments I've ever experienced, to be told to leave while the entire restaurant watched. If you as a manager are going to enforce a strict dress code, it’s crucial to ensure your staff is trained to address these issues before seating guests.
I would have understood if I had been notified at the door that my hoodie was not acceptable, but after being seated, served, and consuming food and drinks, I was extremely upset. Moreover, I can't shake the feeling that I was singled out because of my race. I rarely mention such experiences, but as a mixed-race man with my white mother, she was able to witness firsthand what it feels like to be discriminated against. For instance, a woman directly across from us was wearing a rain jacket—appropriate considering the weather—and she was not asked to leave.
Overall, this was an unprofessional situation that should not have occurred, especially in a public setting."
