On Friday, owners of the Turkey Leg Hut announced a new dress code for their restaurant. Soon after, the internet exploded with their opinions on what some call anti-Blackness over the Houston eatery’s new rules, reported The Houston Chronicle.
The restaurant is a Black-owned establishment in Houston’s Third Ward. The restaurant became popular for its gigantic turkey legs that are often dressed in other ingredients. The food is so popular that it has drawn celebrities and is known for long lines and crowded eating areas.
However, after the announcement of dress code changes, many people question how a Black-owned restaurant could enact rules that seemingly target urban attire.
“We were forced to put this new policy in place as we remain committed to ensuring all guests are comfortable while visiting us,” the restaurant stated in a Facebook post. “We are not a club. We are a family-friendly restaurant and will continue to maintain our standards as we welcome everyone to the Turkey Leg Hut.”
Due to the new rules, which include a ban on baggy pants and du-rags, some commenters accused the restaurant of anti-Blackness.
our own ppl be anti black . the line outside be wrapped around twice in texas heat . on top of that it’s just in 3RD WARD .. you called the “turkey leg hut” & in the middle of the hood & serve finger foods & u want a strict dress code ? BYEE https://t.co/0KrY0QlJ2s
— all blm (@Zoie_Zhane) July 3, 2021
That comment is not wrong. The restaurant’s facade does not give Michelin star vibes.
I have never been to the Turkey Leg Hut and never will be. How are you gonna be a BLACK establishment in the middle of a historically BLACK area of Houston with a hella Anti-Black, internalized racist af dress code policy for a joint that sells excessively smothered turkey legs? https://t.co/caLAxVHFr5
— Talia Mirai | Pin Up Commissions on Patreon (@TaliaMirai) July 3, 2021
Outside of the anti-Blackness accusations, Black Twitter dragged the restaurant in the best way they knew how.
Blessed day. Would you be so kind as to accompany me to the Turkey Leg Hut? Under His eye…. pic.twitter.com/hN2DBfIicy
— Sweet Ambitchions (@ShikeraCallihan) July 3, 2021
How I’m pulling up to eat at the turkey leg hut pic.twitter.com/53Eb5O200N
— I EAT 🐱 FOR EBT (@TheRealEWILLZ) July 2, 2021
Me placing an order at Turkey Leg Hut https://t.co/JwNSb7VhVC pic.twitter.com/aRWfyIqSnJ
— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) July 2, 2021
However, the restaurant owners are resolute, and no change to the new policy has been announced.
“3 hours before we open, 🤔 let’s get this dress code started, lol 😂 I mean this beautiful Saturday going … rain and all we rocking … thought a hater said something 👌 … we love y’all,” they posted on Instagram.
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If you decide to visit, make sure you’re wearing your good t-shirt.
