(Molly Bruns, Headline USA) A reporter from the New York Post recently donned a sweater, a pair of shorts and sneakers and put the dress codes of several New York City restaurants to the test to see if the local eateries had higher dress standards than the halls of Congress.
It came a week after Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., ignited controversy for changing the Senate’s longstanding rules of decorum to accommodate slovenly Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., who refuses to dress in anything nicer than a hoodie and gym shorts in the upper chamber.
Journalist Jon Levine attempted to enter several high-end restaurants in his casual wear and faced rejection and scorn from maître d’s across the city, according to the Post.
On the Upper East Side, Levine attempted to enter a restaurant with a seven-course meal priced at $275 and faced brutal rejection.
“He would not be permitted here,” the maître d’ said. “We have turned away guests for being improperly dressed regardless of their occupation.”
Another maître d, this time at the famous Le Bernardin, flatly announced that they do not permit athletic wear in the restaurant, despite walk-in customers typically affording more casual digs.
The wine director, Aldo Sohm, explained that jackets and pants were on loan for their more casual diners.
Double Michelin star Jean-Georges made it clear that it was “impossible” to disobey the dress code, which forbade jeans, sneakers, sweatshirts, and shorts.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s Lady Gaga,” said one maître d, as another stood next to her in stunned silence.
The restauranteurs allowed Levine to use the restroom.
Doormen outside of The Grill, located inside the luxury Four Seasons hotel, physically held the door shut to keep Levine from entering the restaurant.
“If you went and got a pair of jeans it would work,” said Don the doorman, who added, “We treat the billionaires just like millionaires.”
The manager recommended a nearby store to purchase some more appropriate clothing.
Nobu and Gramercy Tavern both allowed Levine onto the premises without a word.
Responding to backlash over the decision to change the Senate dress code on his behalf, Fetterman declared that Republican “jagoffs” would have to put their support behind Ukraine in order for him to start suiting up again.
“If those jagoffs in the House stop trying to shut our government down, and fully support Ukraine, then I will save democracy by wearing a suit on the Senate floor next week,” he tweeted.
If those jagoffs in the House stop trying to shut our government down, and fully support Ukraine, then I will save democracy by wearing a suit on the Senate floor next week.
— Senator John Fetterman (@SenFettermanPA) September 20, 2023
