To the Editor:
In response to Callie Hitchcock’s insightful opinion piece, “Oh, No, She’s Eating All Alone!” published on May 28, I would like to share a personal historical account relevant to the discussion around dining alone.
As an 82-year-old retired attorney, I have experienced societal attitudes toward women dining independently. In the 1970s, while practicing law, I participated in meetings organized by the Women Lawyers of Michigan at various restaurants. Occasionally, I would arrive early and chose to sit at the bar for a drink while waiting for my colleagues. However, I was confronted with a disheartening reality: I was advised that sitting alone at the bar would lead others to perceive me as a “hooker,” prompting the establishment to enforce a no-solo female bar policy.
This unjust treatment spurred us to take legal action under civil rights legislation, resulting in a successful lawsuit against the restaurant for discrimination. In a parallel incident, we also sued another restaurant that refused to hang our coats. Once again, we prevailed, and the damages awarded were subsequently donated to a local shelter.
Throughout my life, I have relished dining alone and prefer sitting at the bar, where I often encounter engaging conversations and interesting individuals. However, it’s worth noting that I have yet to receive a complimentary drink from any establishment during these outings.
Carole Chiamp
Bingham Farms, Mich.
To the Editor:
Reflecting on my early experiences working internationally, a memorable incident occurred in Milan. After finishing a busy morning of appointments, I decided to enjoy lunch at a quaint, elegant restaurant. When seated, the waiter inquired if anyone would be joining me, to which I replied in the negative.
The waiter then paused, asking if I hailed from Britain or America. Upon confirming my American nationality, he promptly returned with a small flag of the United States, displaying it at my table. This small gesture exemplified the warmth and hospitality often found in dining cultures abroad.
