The Belmont — Restaurant in Charleston

Upon our arrival, my friend and I, both corporate executives visiting from out of town, were met with an unexpected and troubling situation. As we entered the restaurant, the server immediately informed us that we were not welcome because my brother had been banned for the week. I’ve never encountered a restaurant that imposes such a strange punishment, as if we were children. My brother asked the server why he had been banned, to which the server replied that it was at the owner’s discretion, and we would need to speak to them directly.

I found it incredibly disheartening and disappointing to be turned away from an establishment that should be welcoming. In an attempt to clarify the situation, I asked the server whether my brother was being accused of trespassing, but again, he insisted we speak to the owner. This experience only reinforced the many reviews I’ve read that mention individuals of color being made to feel unwelcome. It’s deeply troubling that discrimination like this continues to exist in...

Initially, my boyfriend and I had positive experiences at this establishment and visited frequently due to its convenient location and welcoming atmosphere. However, we were recently informed that my boyfriend is no longer allowed in because the owners believe he is involved in illegal activity—an accusation that is both baseless and deeply concerning.

My boyfriend is a hardworking individual who earns his living legally, and it is disheartening to see such unfounded assumptions made about him. This experience has led us to question whether racial bias played a role in this decision, especially given similar concerns shared by others. Discrimination—whether intentional or not—has no place in any business, and I encourage the owners to reflect on their actions and the impact they have on their community.

To those who value inclusivity and respect, I would advise caution before supporting this establishment. Everyone deserves to be treated fairly and...

My colleagues and I went to The Belmont tonight. We had delicious food earlier in the evening and many of us ordered drinks. Later in the evening, we returned and some people in the party ordered drinks. A couple people in our party requested water and the waiter answered affirmatively, saying he'd bring water. After waiting and not receiving water, a member of our group asked a second time for water. The waiter replied saying "We're a business." After exchanging viewpoints, the waiter maintained that he would not serve us water, even though we patronized the establishment earlier in the evening and members of our group were currently spending money at The Belmont. As a small group of five, at a mildly busy establishment with no line that night, this behavior from the waiter was unprofessional and unwarranted. My colleagues and I intend to not patronize this establishment...