Jacket/and tie required

The issue of jacket/and tie required in restaurants is one that needs some attention. Dress code for restaurants in general. The origin of jacket/and tie required dates back to aristocracy in Europe. America was founded by Europeans, thus some traditions bridged the Atlantic. The principal is simple, you as a customer understand that the prepared food will be worthy of your respect, and therefore, you dress accordingly. From a restaurant owner's standpoint, it is understood that you took the time and effort to show respect for his establishment, therefore, he will see to it that your party isn't distracted by scrubby looking people. I guarantee you there is not a single restaurant owner with a fetish for how people dress, it is a matter of respect for the entirety of his guests. Towards the conundrum of lax, or no dress code, when in doubt throw on a jacket. There are plenty of 4 and 5 star restaurants where there is no dress code. Out of respect for the chef, and most importantly, respect for the others dining, one should dress properly. If you are uncomfortable in a suit or jacket, think how much more uncomfortable you will be when you are given the worse seat and waiter in the house. The Maître d' will think a man who doesn't care enough to dress for the occasion will not tip well, and should be hidden from the general population. Just because you think casual is cool, does not mean there is any respect for it in a civilized establishment.