IHOP Apologizes After Server Tells Black Teenagers To Pay Upfront For Meal

(RTTNews) - IHOP President Darren Rebelez has issued an apology after a server at a Auburn, Maine restaurant asked a group of black teenagers to pay upfront for their meal.

President Darren Rebelez said "IHOP and our franchisees have zero tolerance for actions that are or allude to discrimination of any type."

"The franchisee of this location is working to contact the affected guests directly to apologize for this incident and are taking appropriate actions in line with their HR policies," Rebelez said.

"For 60 years, IHOP and our franchisees have strived to create a warm and hospitable dining experience for all guests, and this isolated incident is not reflective of that ongoing commitment."

The restaurant will be temporarily shut down Thursday for employee training.

The Auburn restaurant's management also issued an apology on its Facebook page. "We apologize sincerely on behalf of our waitstaffs actions. A meeting has taken place with all of our staff members. Everyone has been made aware of these inexcusable actions and reminded how we handle matters correctly in the future. We have rectified the situation and can guarantee this is not what we condone to go on within our restaurant. Please spare our credibility, as this situation is not a reflection of the service we strive to deliver."