The fast-casual chain Chili's has waded into an online row over restaurant dress codes, taking a swipe at upmarket rival Ruth's Chris Steak House. The debate erupted after Ruth's Chris posted its dress code on X, banning sportswear and baseball caps, prompting Chili's to respond: 'The only dress code at Chili's is that you have to be dressed.'
Ruth's Chris, acquired by Darden Restaurants in 2023 for around $715 million, instructs diners to remove hats upon entering and restricts baseball caps to the bar or lounge. Its prohibited items include gym wear, pool attire, tank tops, offensive graphics, revealing clothing and exposed undergarments.
The exchange drew thousands of reactions. Some users applauded Chili's non-discriminatory approach, while others backed Ruth's Chris for upholding standards. One commentator, Sarah Good, noted: 'Well Chili's is where we go to on a Thursday night for margs and chips. Ruth's Chris is where we go for special moments.'
Supporters of strict dress codes argued that 'people are tired of the general abandonment of all standards in society'. One user added: 'When you take time to get dressed nice, you tend to act a different way than if you’re in sweatpants and a tank top.' Another expressed hope that cruise lines would adopt similar rules for dining rooms.
However, the policy prompted questions about flexibility, with one poster asking: 'What if President Trump went there and wore his MAGA baseball cap style hat. Would they kick him out or what?' The debate shows no sign of cooling, as diners continue to weigh in on the merits of dressing up for a meal out.
