To Dress or Not to Dress?

It seems that every time my husband and I go out for a nice meal there are always other diners who treat the restaurant like their living room or corner bar.  What ever happened to a dress code, manners, etiquette and decorum?

We recently went to a very nice restaurant to celebrate a special occasion and I was absolutely appalled by the way many people were dressed, both children and adults.

There were two young children that were having a dance party as they left the establishment.  Not only were they loud and distracting, they were wearing sneakers and jeans – in a Four Diamond restaurant!!  Parents, if you can’t get your children to be civilized, leave the kids at home or take them to Chucky Cheese, where a kid can be a kid!

When I am paying good money for an overall dining experience, this obnoxious behavior and disdain for basic etiquette tends to put a little damper on the mood.

The food and wine may be exquisite and the service may be stellar but I am personally less likely to go back to an establishment that permits sloppiness and rude behavior by other patrons.  I know that in this economy many restaurants are hesitant about implementing and mandating a dress code because they are afraid of losing business, but I think they are alienating diners who appreciate and desire a touch of elegance.

Whatever happened to wanting to look your best?  I personally love putting on a beautiful dress and a great pair of pumps and my husband always looks like he is stepping off the anchor desk when we go out to dinner.  Casual Friday is one thing, but beach attire or sweat pants at your favorite intimate bistro is downright tacky.

Listen up gentlemen! Fine dining restaurants are not the place for your ball caps, torn jeans and untucked shirts.  As for ladies, save the flip-flops for the beach!  

As you head out to your favorite romantic spot for Valentine’s, take a little time to look your very best!  I bet you’ll even enjoy your meal a little more. 

What say you? Do you think fine dining restaurants should mandate a dress code? 

Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/djjewelz/4580699568/