A hungry diner says she was turned away from a pizzeria by a bouncer because she wanted to dine alone.
The woman, who asked not to be named, decided to treat herself on her way home from work to a meal out at Detroit pizza specialists Ramona, in Manchester.
As she tried to get inside she said she was stopped by a bouncer who told her there was a “no singles” policy.
She told Manchester Evening News : “After a long day at work I thought I'd treat myself to a nice meal at Ramona on Swan Street. I paid £4 to park nearby for two hours and strolled up the path.
“A bouncer asked if I was meeting a party inside, and I replied 'no - just me.' I was told that in that case I wasn't allowed in. I genuinely thought they were joking. They weren't.
"I asked why as I have dined alone in restaurants many times before and never been turned away because of that. They said it's because they have a bar inside too. I was still confused and baffled.
“Then they said if they let me in, they'd have to let single men in too because it would be discriminatory. Apparently they have a 'no-singles' policy.
“I walked away feeling humiliated, angry and frustrated - not to mention hungry."
According to its website, the restaurant reserves the right to refuse large single sex parties, but has no mention of a 'no-singles' policy.
She added: "I find this absolutely shocking and am still in disbelief.
“I agree they shouldn't discriminate between men and women, but I have no idea why a single man would be a threat or danger.
"I am a headteacher - not that it really matters - but I had been to work so was reasonably well dressed, I wasn't drunk, and just wanted a bite to eat. I can't see one good reason why I was treated like this.
“There was no apology or empathy, just an attitude."
The restaurant said it does not have a 'no-singles' policy and is currently looking into the allegation.
Andrew Marshall Operations and People Director said: "It's not Ramona's policy to not welcome in single men and women.
“We are currently looking into the allegation and can't comment on individual cases."
