A man has hit out at what he described as a restaurant’s ‘discriminatory’ booking system after it insisted his party be "all female or a mixed group". The potential customer had enquired about making a booking for 14 people at the FireFly in Manchester for a birthday celebration.
But Nick, 26, who did not want to give his full name, claims he received an automated booking policy email back which said his group could not be all male. Nick, who was booking a party of just men, has labelled the policy ‘blatant sexism’ and has vowed to never return to the restaurant at One New Bailey.
Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, he said: “As a gay man I have lots of gay friends who I go out with for big birthday celebrations. Parties of six having to be just female or mixed is blatant sexism to me.
“I completely understand why they might want to do that, to stop a big group of lads causing trouble. But if you’re going to attract those types of people you need to be able to deal with it – have security on for a reason.
“I actually went for a meal there on Friday with my friends. I’ve been there before and really enjoyed it so I was going to see if there was any availability for my birthday which is next month."
The email said: "After 8pm we operate an over 21+ policy. Over 6 guests must be all female or a mixed group."
Nick added: “I just feel like they’re discriminating against half the population. It doesn’t make sense. The annoying thing is, I would have said it was my favourite restaurant. I loved the vibe – I would never go back.”
The Manchester Evening News has contacted FireFly for comment and this story will be updated if they make a statement.
