Surrey restaurant apologises for 'inappropriate, disrespectful and offensive' dress code requiring that women wear 'midi or bodicon dress' or 'sexy black ankle-strap heels with a form-fitting top'
A Japanese restaurant and bar in Leatherhead, Surrey, has apologised for posting an "inappropriate, disrespectful and offensive" dress code on its website, after it was criticised online by members of the public.
Beluga, which is due to open tomorrow, is accessible by invitation onto the guest list only. The venue's Ts and Cs, as seen by The Daily Mail but unavailable on the venue's website at the time of writing, stated that women should either wear "skinny jeans with sexy black ankle-strap heels and with a form-fitting top," or "midi or bodycon dresses" to be allowed access to the venue.
It also said that customers wearing more classically-frowned upon attire such as "hoodies, trainers, shorts, flip flops or any other sportswear" would be denied entry.
In a statement on social media, the venue expressed "sincere apologies for the T&Cs" which it said were "mistakenly published" on its website.
"The description was inappropriate, disrespectful and offensive and does not reflect the image we're seeking to promote.
"We wish to clarify that our policy is a smart dress code for men and women… we are wholeheartedly apologising for any offence and upset that we have caused."
Smart dress preferred
Imposing a dress code is perfectly legal as a business, and expecting that guests dress up for an occasion is widely accepted within hospitality.
For example, The Ritz in London has different dress codes in different areas of the hotel, The Man Behind the Curtain has a "jacket preferred" policy and Midsummer House requires that customers don't wear shorts.
However, going much further in its stipulations, the dresscode at Beluga was branded to be "sexist and out of touch" by an individual on social media.
Another commented: "Are you for real? The dress code. You are in Leatherhead not central London ffs! Never read anything so mysogynistic!"
Described on its website as "a modern & elegant place to enjoy an evening of fine dining, exciting cocktails with the best in-house DJs and music to upbeat your senses," the restaurant serves sushi and caviar, while the bar serves cocktails costing between £14 and £16, such the 'Erotic Martini' and 'Pink Japan.'
"Our award-winning chefs have designed an electric menu, which will take the city by storm, chefs masterminds our innovative menus, while our talented mixologists are driving forward Surrey’s cocktail culture with exciting ingredients and creations."
"Relax in our luxurious art deco styled restaurant and treat yourself to our outstanding sushi menu at Beluga. It’s a taste sensation!"
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