Smoking Ban

In response to “Smoked Famine?” Owners of Eateries Say Ban Would Hurt Business,” Jan. 23:

While many of those at the Spago meeting did, indeed, represent “glitzy restaurants,” there were an equally large number of owners like myself who have small establishments who are very much against a smoking ban. This is not an issue about class or even smoking. It is one more government regulation that affects everyone’s rights. But my bistro is 11 inches inside the border from West Hollywood and I will be that close to competition that allows smoking even though I now make every effort to accommodate the desires of nonsmokers.

If people are serious about smoke-free restaurants, let the free market create them. Otherwise, we may soon be obliged to no longer serve red meat because someone finds that offensive as well.

DALE PAYNE

Chef/Owner, Dale’s Bistro

Los Angeles