Ross, Welcome to Cheftalk! Black is only unlucky when it comes to cats crossing your path. The fine dining of yesteryear is much different than today. In todays world anything works. Look at broadway in NYC. At one time people would dress for a night out at the theater. Now people stop at a burger joint then go to the theater in shorts. I would look at what you expect a couple to wear to your restaurant and design it around that. If I were looking to cater to the suit and gown proud I would design the restaurant much different that a fine dining approach for a walk in off the street casual crowd. I have been to many "New age" restaurants across the USA that offer an open concept with a bar included in one large room. Like I said the fine dining dining room is much different that yesterday. people aren't looking for a stuffy approach to dining. They are looking for a feel good relaxed friendly atmosphere that offers people to laugh and have fun talking at a take without feeling like their eating in a church or library. There are restaurants in NYC that have dress codes, IMHO that is bullshit in todays world. I think the glove has to fit the hand, but, the hand also has to feel good in then glove. Think of how the world is today and how you want your customers to feel sitting in your restaurant.......I hope this helps........ChefBill
