By N. John Gazey Santa Monica
It was a bit of a shock to read in Maria Rohloff’s restaurant column (“First meal of the day isn’t to be slept on,” page 8, March 13) that The Tudor House, a watering hole I have frequented … for more than 40 years, is “a bit feminine.” I had no idea! Straight away I went to see for myself if this favorite eatery of mine had indeed become unfriendly to men. Upon entering all seemed much the same as it was on my last visit. The young fellow behind the counter nodded a cheery greeting in answer to my ‘Ello! The freezer was, as always, filled with such bloke friendly fare as bangers, kippers, black pudding (blood sausage) and various strong cheeses. The shelves also contained many items beloved by males — pickled onions, HP Sauce and various curry flavored items. There was also lots of treats available for young boys — toffees, Humbugs, Wine Gums.
Upon entering the restaurant, I did notice that about two thirds of the diners were women, which gave me pause, but I was reassured when Christine, a very special Scottish lass, arrived at the table with my usual, a large glass of Guinness. As it was late in the day, I decided to forgo the British Breakfast and instead ordered an extremely masculine Ploughman’s Lunch, comprising of liberal helpings of pungent cheese served with eye watering pickles, salad and fresh baked muffins. After a second libation, I looked all around and then seeing no one to thump or swear at, I left without spitting on the floor. Ye Olde Tudor House is as always a male bastion however they do serve ladies. Even Maria Rohloff.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on March 19, 2008. Read the original PDF.