Little Woodrow's reverses ban on face and neck tattoos

DALLAS, TX (KTRK) -- Little Woodrow's has reversed course on its ban against face and neck tattoos.

The Texas-based restaurant and bar chain released a new policy after some customers called the ban discriminatory. Internationally known tattoo artist and host of Spike TV's "Ink Master," Oliver Peck said he was denied service at a Little Woodrow's in Dallas because of his appearance.

"I would say from my point of view it's definitely a little discriminatory," said Peck. "Not everyone with a neck tattoo is in a gang. Sorry to break the news to ya."

On Tuesday, the company's lawyer, Philip Brinson said that the policy is not a ban on ink, but the restaurant would just prefer not to serve clients with neck or face tattoos.

However, tattoo enthusiasts came to Peck's defense on social media and left a series of negative reviews on the company's Facebook Page.

Rhonda Lujan wrote, "I have never been there before, but I don't think I will be going there. I have tattoos all up and down both of my arms I have tattoos behind my ears that goes down my neck."

Vance Sanders wrote, "People should not be judged based on looks. Please dont support this owner. Plenty of other places to go!"

Craig Dillion wrote, "I do not have any face or neck tattoos, but as a result of this archaic and discriminatory policy, i will not give this or any other Little Woodrow's my business."

Although some called the policy, "discriminatory" - attorney Britta Stanton said the restaurant was likely well within its rights. Legally, Stanton said people with tattoos aren't considered a "protected class" such as race, religion, sex and age are under the U.S. anti-discrimination law.

However, Little Woodrow decided to clarify its policy late Tuesday and released the following statement:

"Little Woodrow's does not have an issue with tattoos as evidenced by the fact that we had no restrictions on tattoos of any kind except at two of our sixteen locations. At those locations, we implemented a policy where we requested that neck and/or facial tattoos not be openly displayed. After further review, we have rescinded this policy. We continue to focus on providing a safe and comfortable environment for all our guests. The company regularly reviews and modifies its policies when it is deemed reasonable to do so."