The Deck Est.2013 — Restaurant in Melbourne

3 differing horrible experiences at the deck.

A small group of us tried to enter the deck. Security refused to let a member of our group enter because he was not wearing a "collared shirt". This was bizarre to our group due to our friend being dressed very smartly in an expensive sweater and the dress code being so strangely specific. While standing outside contemplating what to do we witnessed security pick and chose who cannot and can enter (*note some were and were not adhering to this random dress code). When waiting we also witnessed an excessively violent alteration between security and some customers. Security violently escorted x5 men out of the venue. While doing so security full body tackled a customer and they had an extensive brawl on the street. Police were not called to this incident by security. That incident was one of the most violent security restraints I've ever witnessed in my life - which says a lot considering I work at Frankston hospital and work closely alongside the amazing security team there.

The second time we came to the deck we were granted entry with no issues. When we entered we had to pay an excessive $20 entry fee in CASH only. When we reached the bar itself, bar staff told us that their EFTPOS machines were broken and we needed to pay in cash. We had to use the ATM machine in the building (that had a charge fee for using it) to get cash out to buy drinks. Throughout the night my group witnessed bar staff randomly using EFTPOS with random customers during the night, then deny use to others. Very suspicious behaviour overall.

Last night a group of 6 of us tried to enter the deck. When we approached security they immediately denied entry to a specific member of our group for being "too intoxicated". Our group questioned this comment due to our friend quietly standing among us showing nil signs of excessive intoxication (e.g. nil slurred speech, standing straight and firm, nil aggression, etc.). When we questioned this comment security staff randomly changed their entire reasoning for not letting our friend in stating that they were not allowing people under the age of 25 into the venue. *Note: I was the only female in the group, I was first to try and enter and they granted me entry despite me being 23. I only refused to enter after realizing they were going to stop my friend from coming in also. Security also had NOT checked any other member of our groups ID to confirm ages despite denying entry to this friend purely due to his age. While standing outside the venue we witnessed numerous customers, mainly female, staggering into the building - who appeared extremely intoxicated. Security seemed to only turn down young male customers via their random choice. My group could not locate any information on the deck's website nor see any signage on the building with information about this age restriction.

I was mortified by my experience last night, not only was my male friend denied entry due to age, which breaks discrimination law under the Australian Human Rights Commission, but security had been painfully biased towards female customers (by initially granting me entry despite being under this "age restriction" but applying it to my male friend, by allowing excessively intoxicated women in but denying entry to males who were nowhere near as drunk, and having bizarre dress codes that only effect male customers).

After these 3 differing and horrible experiences at the deck myself and our extended friend group have completely sworn off the venue. As others have mentioned in reviews it appears security have some serious power trips taking place and there are some questionable legal behaviour occurring relating to cash/EFTPOS useage - excessively violent street restraints and clear discrimination against age and gender is appalling behaviour. I recommend staying very clear...

DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS VENUE!

In a world that strives for diversity and inclusivity, it is disheartening to witness instances of discrimination based on appearance and cultural expression. Recently, a distressing incident has come to light, highlighting the deep-seated prejudices that still persist in some social spaces. This post sheds light on the case of a bar denying entry to an individual solely based on their facial cultural tattoo, the esteemed Moko Kauae, taking a closer look at the implications of such discrimination and the importance of promoting cultural understanding.

Imagine stepping out for a night to take your friend who's visting from Aotearoa (New Zealand) for a couple of drinks before heading to a dinner resovation so early in the night 7pm, only to be confronted with a blatant act of prejudice. Such was the experience of my friend adornede with a stunning traditional Moko Kauae, a sacred and revered facial tattoo commonly worn by Māori women as a symbol of cultural identity, strength, and pride. As we eagerly approached the entrance of a renowned bar, recommended by friends, the bouncer abruptly denied us entry, citing the display of her cultural tattoo as the reason behind this unfair treatment.

The Historical Significance of Moko Kauae, Moko Kauae holds immense cultural significance within Māori communities. Passed down through generations, this intricate facial tattoo signifies a deep connection to whakapapa (genealogy) and honors the inherent mana (prestige) of Māori women. Each unique pattern embodies a wealth of ancestral knowledge, personal experiences, and tribal affiliations. It is not a mere fashion statement but rather a deeply cherished symbol of heritage, resilience, and spiritual connection.

The barring of entry solely due to an individual's cultural tattoo raises grave concerns about the prevalence of racism and cultural insensitivity at this establishment. Beyond the immediate exclusion faced by the person involved, it sends a distressing message to other cultural communities that their customs and traditions are not welcome or valued. Such discriminatory practices perpetuate division and hinder social progress by stifling the celebration of diversity and eroding the richness of our collective tapestry.

Instances like these serve as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for education, empathy, and cultural awareness. Genuine efforts to foster inclusivity require a comprehensive understanding of diverse cultures and their practices. By embracing cultural diversity, society can create an environment where all individuals, regardless of their appearance, heritage, or beliefs, are treated with respect and provided equal opportunities.

While this incident highlights a distressing act of discrimination, it should also act as a catalyst for change. It is imperative for individuals and establishments alike to educate themselves about different cultures and work towards creating inclusive spaces that...

The Deck is disgusting.

Bouncers here are on an obvious power trip. If you're wanting to go in wearing a pair of comfy shoes and some jeans good luck on getting in. Expect to wear a pair of suit pants and shoes to go along side of that, as well as a collared shirt. This is generally fine for some places, but The Deck is trying to be something it's not.

The prices for drinks were reasonable, up until the cashier tries to short change your $50.00.

If you're a man walking around at any time by yourself just be careful, the bouncers will try and throw you out once it gets too late in the night regardless of how much you've had to drink.

In my case I was leaving the men's room to meet back up with my girlfriend, sister in law and a few of their friends downstairs when I was violently dragged out the door as I'd "Had way too much to drink" (I'd had maybe 4 beers in three hours) Thankfully my girlfriend (Who had quite a lot to drink) saw what was happening, and tried to get them to leave me alone since I was fine. Bouncer said I had to go, but she could stay. As you'd expect, they were just using any excuse to get the males out so there was more women.

Needless to say my girlfriend and I called an Uber and left.

It was absolutely deplorable, disgraceful and they should be ashamed of themselves for actively doing this kind of practice. I wouldn't recommend this place at all unless you're

1. Female (As you could see why by reading my story)
2. Willing to put up with blatant sexism
3. A guy with a lot of girls to go with, and you're willing to stick to them like your life depends on it. Wanna go to the toilet? Better bring a couple of them with you.
4. You legitimately just want a bad time.

I know this is going to be met with a lot of scepticism, which is fine. You're entitled to your own opinion, just sharing an awful night out.

Management: If you are reading this, you should be ashamed for allowing this to happen to people, and allowing your staff to treat people the way I was treated. Me, some guy just trying to have a few beers on a Friday night. As a local I will actively go out of my way to avoid going here, and any of my friends who suggests it I tell them this exact same story.

Everyone else: If you're in Frankston, just go somewhere else. You're guaranteed to have a better time than...