Restaurant that denied Russell Crowe entry announces cheeky change to dress code

A Melbourne restaurant has cheekily backtracked after denying Russell Crowe entry due to his outfit.

Last week, Japanese-fusion restaurant Mr. Miyagi made headlines when staff at the venue turned away Crowe and his girlfriend Britney Theriot for wearing "slobby gym gear" after they played a game of tennis at a nearby court.

READ MORE: Harry Styles pauses concert after noticing woman's note

The 58-year-old actor later clarified that he was wearing a Ralph Lauren polo shirt he'd purchased that day, while Theriot wore a tennis skirt.

The restaurant requires diners to dress "smart casual" and says guests wearing "work-gear, activewear, singlets and thongs" will be denied entry.

READ MORE: Personal tragedy strikes Madonna's family

Owner Kristian Klein initially supported his staff's decision, saying customers must follow the rules regardless of status.

However, he appears to have changed his mind.

A new plaque inside the restaurant states diners must "dress smart casual... unless you're Russell Crowe. Then wear whatevs."

Klein posted a photo of the plaque on Instagram with the following caption: "Dear Russell. During your last visit it seems we got off on the wrong foot. After much reflection on what occurred, we have made a permanent change to our dress code. We would love to see you again in the future. You're always welcome at Mr. Miyagi."

The commenters on the Instagram post were divided.

READ MORE: Michael B. Jordan confronts reporter over 'corny' comment

"Good for you for applying the rules to EVERYONE," one person wrote.

"I understand rules and regulations. But in today's world, if someone is coming from an, let's say tennis game, there should be exceptions made," said another. "Not because of being a movie star, but because of being a normal couple who didn't have time to go home and change! The moral of the story is, those waiters lost big tips, and the establishment lost out on a big check! C'mon on, this is 2023!"