A popular restaurant favored by the Beckham family has faced backlash after implementing a controversial new policy banning certain diners, sparking outrage over its dress codes, social media restrictions, and claims of elitism, with some questioning its long-term viability.

 

Victoria and David Beckham cut a typically stylish figure as they joined their brood for dinner at swanky Michelin-starred restaurant Dorian in London's Notting Hill last October

 

One of the Beckham family’s favorite restaurants has found itself at the center of controversy after it implemented a new policy banning a certain type of diner—infuriating regulars and fans alike.

The restaurant, a high-end hotspot known for its celebrity clientele, has attracted a significant amount of attention not only because of its famous patrons but also due to its recently introduced restriction, which has left many customers questioning its fairness and the direction it is taking.

The move comes after reports of customers being turned away simply for failing to meet new criteria set by the restaurant’s management.

These restrictions, which some have described as arbitrary, involve specific dress codes and restrictions on the number of social media photos diners are allowed to take while at the restaurant.

The Beckham family, known for their association with the restaurant, has frequently been spotted enjoying meals there, but it’s unclear whether they had any influence on the decision to implement such a policy.

The decision has caused a significant stir, with several diners expressing frustration at the new rules.

Many patrons who have been long-time supporters of the restaurant feel alienated by the policy, which seems to target individuals based on their perceived social status or appearance.

Complaints about being refused service for not adhering to dress codes or taking pictures inside the restaurant have been flooding social media platforms, with many calling out the restaurant for its lack of transparency and fairness.

 

Chris D¿Sylva, the owner of Dorian in Notting Hill, west London

 

Critics argue that the policy is out of touch with the times, especially given the growing influence of social media and the fact that many customers use these platforms to promote their experiences at restaurants.

Social media influencers and celebrities, in particular, are known for frequenting the establishment, but now it seems that only those who meet the restaurant’s high standards of behavior are welcome.

This elitist attitude has led to accusations of snobbery and discrimination, with some questioning whether the restaurant is trying to cater only to the ultra-wealthy elite.

Interestingly, this move comes at a time when the restaurant industry as a whole is grappling with issues of accessibility and customer satisfaction.

Many businesses have faced backlash in the past for their policies, and this particular establishment has found itself under a microscope as a result.

While some defend the restaurant’s new rules, saying that it is merely aiming to maintain an exclusive and refined atmosphere, others argue that the move could alienate loyal customers who have supported the business for years.

The Beckham family, whose association with the restaurant has been well-documented, is reportedly unhappy with the situation.

Sources close to the family claim that they did not approve of the new policy and have expressed disappointment at the negative publicity surrounding the restaurant.

As influential public figures, David and Victoria Beckham’s opinions on such matters are often taken seriously, and their association with the restaurant has played a large role in its rise to fame.

If the Beckhams distance themselves from the establishment, it could have serious consequences for the restaurant’s reputation and future business.

 

The Beckham clan dine at Michelin-starred Dorian which opened in 2022

 

Some fans of the restaurant, who have been loyal patrons for years, are also speaking out in defense of the establishment, arguing that it is simply trying to uphold high standards and maintain an air of exclusivity that draws in the right kind of clientele.

These supporters believe that the restaurant has every right to implement such rules in order to differentiate itself from other dining establishments and preserve its unique identity.

However, for many, the new policy feels like a step backward in an industry that is increasingly about inclusivity and making dining experiences accessible to all.

With a growing emphasis on diversity and equality, policies that appear to favor a select group of people over others are seen as outdated and out of touch.

The backlash from customers is a reminder of the importance of customer service and the potential risks that come with implementing policies that alienate large segments of the population.

 

Mr D¿Sylva grew so tired of uppity customers that he now reviews them. (pictured: Exterior of Dorian)

 

The controversy has put the restaurant in the spotlight, with many questioning its long-term strategy. Will this policy result in a shift toward an even more exclusive clientele, or will the restaurant realize that such restrictions may only limit its potential?

In an age where word-of-mouth and online reviews can make or break a business, it’s unclear whether the restaurant will be able to maintain its high status while facing such a backlash.

As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the decision to ban certain customers from Beckham’s favorite restaurant has sparked an ongoing conversation about exclusivity, customer experience, and the evolving nature of the restaurant industry.

With social media providing a platform for both praise and criticism, it will be interesting to see how the restaurant navigates this controversy and whether it can find a way to please both its loyal patrons and the new customers it aims to attract.

 

A table at Dorian is hugely in demand. The opportunity to book a table at 8.30pm is not possible for members of the public