French restaurant, accused of racism against Black customers, faces investigation

ANKARA (AA) – The Paris Prosecutor’s Office has opened an investigation against a French restaurant in Paris over racism charges.

Three Black women of African descent were not let in the Manko Restaurant near the Champs-Elysees Street in Paris on the grounds that they did not dress up in evening clothes, Le Parisien reported.

After the video footage of the incident went viral on social media, the restaurant received public criticism.

The Paris Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation into the incident for discrimination based on origin, ethnicity or nationality.

After the backlash, the restaurant management posted an apology letter on its social media.

“Manko respects a charter of values that promote equality, respect, tolerance and benevolence for all. The necessary sanctions were immediately and permanently taken,” its management said.

Artists call for boycott of Manko

Several artists, including DJ Snake, singer Vegedream, and French rapper Naza called for a boycott of the restaurant on social media.

In 2020, another restaurant on Champs-Elysees Street prevented a group of customers wearing headscarves from entering the restaurant.

The video footage of the incident has been watched by more than 1 million people, and received negative reactions.

However, there was no official apology, investigation or prosecution following the earlier incident, given the prevailing environment if intense Islamophobia in France.