A would-be customer at Miller and Carter was led to unleashing a furious tirade online, after her partner was turned away from the successful steakhouse chain for his choice of clothes.
The punter alleges that the staff inside were making 'snide comments' over his choice of tracksuit, vowing never to return after being 'mortified' by the instance.
The restaurant in question is the Miller and Carter in Studley, Warwickshire - which has a 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor. It is also ranked as one of the best restaurants in the area on the platform.
Read more: Miller & Carter announce opening date for new Tynemouth steakhouse
Birmingham Live reports that food and service rank are high scorers, each boasting 4.5 - while value sees a 4 rating by happy customers. And from reviews it seems the majority of people often have a pleasant dine-in experience at the restaurant with most praising the food and “Very attentive and friendly" service!
However, one customer was allegedly unable to even sample the food - with her partner told he was not welcome after failing to meet a strict dress code. The customer said the occasion was for a family meal with their ten year old daughter, and that clothing had never been an issue at other M&C outlets.
The review in full said: “I am absolutely appalled to say the least. Me, my partner and daughter came for a family meal and we were refused at the door due to my partner wearing a smart grey tracksuit. The two women at the desk were very rude the minute we arrived, making snide comments and looking my partner up and down.
"The one lady told us it was down to the manager and then told us she was actually one of the managers herself. Very rude, very abrupt and I don't mean to be rude myself, but I would not say they were dressed very well myself. I felt mortified and embarrassed especially with our ten-year-old daughter who was with us.
“I said we've been to many Miller and Carter's dressed in the same clothing before and we've never been refused service ever. And the lady told us different Miller and Carter's have different rules, which makes no sense at all. Discrimination the minute we arrived. We will not be returning again.”
The manager who reportedly dealt with the incident at the time has since taken to Tripadvisor to reply to the review - re-emphasising the dress policy. The manager also noted that the guests were offered the chance to re-book at a later time, clarifying that the policy is mandatory across the chain's locations.
The response reads: “Thank you for taking the time to contact us regarding your visit to us yesterday. I have replied to your other correspondence also, but please see my response below. I was the host who greeted you and conversed with you regarding the dress code.
"We do not allow sportswear within the restaurant area and as such, the gentleman with whom you were with, was wearing a tracksuit. We would have happily booked you in for a later time, as suggested to you in person, allowing you the opportunity to change but do advise our guests that we operate this policy.
"A copy of this is available within our lobby area and will always be more than happy to answer any questions. I find it pertinent to remind you that this is a policy that is held across the brand of Miller & Carter and as such is not discrimination against any persons who visit us.
"We do wish you a pleasant week ahead.”
Do you think tracksuits are suitable dress when eating at a restaurant? Let us know in the comments.
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