I was out for a little birthday tea this evening and was treated to a wonderful six course French Cafe dinner.

The food was sublime and the service was as you would expect but I was in a state of despair over the dress standards.

At the risk of sounding like a snob, fuck it I don't really care.

Whats up with thinking it is ok to wear a home spun jersey to a restaurant? Even if you're celebrating getting off a murder conviction its not on. 

I was the only male there wearing a tie and yes it was a cold evening but guys please leave the polar fleece at home and wear a coat (that you can take off when you are seated).

Sensible shoes are acceptable if you are arthritic or going for a walk but not at what is reputedly one of New Zealand's finest dining establishments.

I'm depressed, where's the sartorial spirit that comes with having a sense of occassion? Get dressed up! You dont have to be wearing the latest thing but at least make an effort.

Dinner does require a jacket and polish your shoes for gods sake.

Don't dare to comment about the service or the food when you look like you've just finished mowing the lawns.

Is it too much to ask that you pay even a tenth of the level of attention paid to your food to how you look?

www.thefrenchcafe.co.nz