El Centro D.F.’s Dubious Sneaker Policy Is No Longer, Plus More Intel

A racist dresscode?

Some would-be customers of El Centro D.F. accused the restaurant of racism when a bouncer at the taco joint turned away a black customer wearing high-top leather Converse sneakers — while allowing white customers with the same footwear entry, reports Washington Post. In response, El Centro fired the bouncer who denied the patron entry — and did away with the sneaker policy. [WaPo]

The switcheroo

Clarendon’s Faccia Luna, the longtime pizza place at 2909 Wilson Blvd, is soon opening up under new management — and a new name — reports ARLnow. The spot will soon be called Alto Fumo, and little else is expected to change. Faccia Luna first opened in 1992. [ARLnow]

The year in tipping

Eater National takes a look at what happened in tipping in 2017 across US restaurants — from new no-tipping spots (not unlike Brambleton newcomer Ahso) to restaurant owners/chefs being sued for skimmed tips. [EATER]

No-frills New Years

Want a bar that’s simply a bar on the biggest party night of the year? Brightest Young Things is on it. On the list? American Ice Company and All Souls (natch) among plenty others. [BYT]