Popular Restaurant Chain Reveals ‘Dress Code’ For Louisiana Diners

(KMDL-FM) Dressing up for dinner is not something that a lot of families in South Louisiana do. Often, since our meals are "hands-on" here in the Gulf South, we are encouraged to wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty when you're invited to a crawfish boil or boucherie.

READ MORE: Louisiana's Best Crawfish Buffets 

Instead of dressing for success, we are dressing for the mess when it comes to meals along the bayou. Now that doesn't mean we won't put on our good clothes for a good reason. All you have to do is look at our Mardi Gras balls and the costumes required for those, which should let you know that we are up to speed on the latest fashions.

Why Are Restaurants Enforcing Dress Codes for Louisiana Diners?

And while fashion trends nationwide might seem to lean more casual, one restaurant chain believes dining at its facility should not be treated as a casual experience. They have announced that, to dine in their dining rooms, a certain "decorum" must be maintained.

I can tell you right now, I am not a fan of dress codes. I understand why a business would want to have them, but it doesn't mean I don't like them. And if we're being honest, the "dress code" that is being implemented by this restaurant chain with four locations across the state seems to be more of a statement of the obvious than a flex to "keep the commoners" out.

READ MORE: Popular Gulf Coast Cruise Line Revamps Dress Code Policy

You've probably figured out that any restaurant that has a dress code is one that probably doesn't have a drive-thru. This one doesn't, but it has been featured in many food magazines and been talked up by many food reviewers in the past. It's also one of the most desired dining destinations for special occasions here in Louisiana.

Which Restaurant Chain Will Be Enforcing a Dress Code For Diners?

Have you figured out we're talking about Ruth's Chris Steakhouse? Yeah, it's not surprising that they would want their clientele to dress in a more upscale manner than say the folks who pop in for a link of boudin, some cracklins' and a box of fishing worms.

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Actually, if you look at the notice that Ruth's Chris posted on its website, this is less about a dress code and more about not being rude. Come on, who wears a hat at the dinner table?

Now, if you insist on covering your dome while you're inside, you will be seated at the bar. They also don't want you popping into the main dining room in your workout clothes, your swimming cover-ups, and those novelty t-shirts that would make a carnival worker blush. Again, less about a dress code and more about basic civility.

Oh yeah, you can't stop wearing just a tank top, and if your underwear is showing out of the backside of your britches, you will be asked to pull them up or leave the premises. Nobody wants to look at that while they're eating dinner, especially an expensive dinner.