Racial Profiling Experience at the Polo Lounge, Beverly Hills…

I have been a loyal patron of the Polo Lounge in Beverly Hills since 2005. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed countless visits without ever facing discrimination, even while wearing a head covering as part of my Muslim faith. That history made what happened on this day both shocking and deeply upsetting.

Before my visit, several Middle Eastern associates had warned me that they had experienced rudeness from some of the staff — especially the manager, Pepe De Anda. I brushed it off, confident in my own positive history with the establishment. But when I arrived and took a seat on the outdoor patio, that sense of security quickly unraveled.

The waiter approached my table and, without any greeting, said, “Hats are not allowed.” Calmly, I explained, “I am Muslim, and I have been coming here since 2005 without any issues regarding my head covering.” He smirked and replied, “That’s a good excuse,” before gesturing for me to follow him to the manager.

I approached Pepe De Anda and immediately asked for his business card — which he handed me — before explaining, “I’m Muslim, and that is why I cover my head.” His response was curt: “We have a no-hat policy,” he said, pointing toward a sign. He then added, “I just told this gentleman to remove his hat,” nodding toward a nearby guest.

I noticed the man in question — an older white gentleman — sitting with his hat resting on his knee. I quietly remarked, “I don’t think he’s Muslim, but you can ask him. I been coming here for years” That’s when Pepe’s demeanor shifted from dismissive to aggressive. He snapped, “I DON’T CARE. Just leave,” and abruptly took back the business card he had just given me.

I asked for my card back and requested the corporate number so I could file a complaint. I pointed out that I had seen multiple guests wearing hats throughout my years coming to this establishment, but Pepe repeated, “I don’t care,” this time stepping toward me and placing his hand lightly on my shoulder. He began guiding me toward the exit, still saying, “Just leave”, Just leave!

What began as a casual afternoon at a place I had frequented for nearly two decades turned into a moment of humiliation and exclusion — one that made me feel singled out, unwelcome, and judged because of my religion.

*After a simple search online. You can see here there are 3 males wearing hats sitting on the patio.

*Is this a case of discrimination?

*Why is it a Muslim male can’t wear a hat due to his religion?

*Yet, 3 other males can?

*Here is an employee wearing a bucket hat.

*Is that a part of their policy?