Restaurant Chain "Great White" Accused of Racist Practices Against Asian and Black Customers

Allegations of Segregation and Discrimination

• 💡 A viral video by content creator Cassidy Cho highlighted allegations that the restaurant chain "Great White" segregated Asian customers, seating them in a corner while non-Asian patrons occupied the main area.
• 🎯 This alleged pattern of behavior was reportedly experienced by the same customer on multiple occasions.
• ⚠️ Further allegations suggest that Black customers, including Harvard fellow Charles Blow, were also subjected to discriminatory seating practices, with staff claiming no openings despite available tables.

Historical Reviews and Similar Incidents

• 🔍 Online reviews dating back years from Great White's Larchmont location mentioned a lack of diversity among waitstaff and claims of deliberately delayed service for Black patrons.
• 🚫 An incident at the Venice location involved an Asian family being prevented from sitting on benches while waiting for a table.
• 🎭 The situation has been compared to an episode of "Curb Your Enthusiasm" where patrons were segregated based on perceived attractiveness.

Former Employee Testimonies

• 🗣️ Former employees of "Great White" and its sister restaurant "Grand Blanco" (Spanish for "Great White") have come forward with disturbing accounts.
• 🚨 Management allegedly instructed staff to limit the number of "ethnic-looking people" and prioritize seating "hot-looking people."
• 🚫 Employees were reportedly told to inform Black customers that the restaurant was at capacity, even when it was not.
• ⚠️ One former employee, Sarah Rose, reported that management openly made fun of her for being the "token black hire" and that owners allegedly touched female employees inappropriately.

Owners' Response and Company Statements

• ❌ Owners Sam Trude and Sam Cooper have vehemently denied all allegations, calling them "outrageous and completely false."
• 📢 A statement from Great White claimed, "Everyone is welcome here. That has never changed and it never will."
• 🧐 The restaurant chain stated that "Great White" is named after a shark and has nothing to do with race.
• 🏢 "Grand Blanco" recently announced a change in ownership and management as of June 1st, 2025, stating a commitment to creating a welcoming space.

Public Reaction and Impact

• 💬 The viral video and subsequent testimonies have sparked widespread discussion and condemnation online.
• 📉 Customers who experienced or witnessed these alleged practices have stated they will not return to Great White locations.
• ❓ The core question remains: why would someone enter the service industry if they intend to discriminate against a significant portion of the public?