An expensive restaurant in the Hamptons has been slammed after allegedly refusing to shelter people caught in an 80mph storm because they did not have reservations.
French bistro Le Bilboquet, nestled in Sag Harbor, is under fire for its rumored actions during the severe weather on Saturday amid July 4 celebrations.
The violent storm sparked chaos in the historic maritime village with reports of loose objects being whipped up in the winds and trees being uprooted.
Thousands had gathered in the area to watch the Independence Day firework display when the weather suddenly changed.
But as many in the crowd ran for cover, they were reportedly turned away from sheltering at Le Bilboquet.
‘Emergency alerts went off on [the] phone informing us that there were 80mph winds and to take shelter.
‘People were huddling inside their boats, and running, and screaming outside,’ a source told Page Six.
‘They wouldn’t let people in. They were like, “Do you have a reservation?” They left people outside with 80 mph winds.’
French bistro Le Bilboquet, nestled in Sag Harbor, is under fire for its alleged actions during the severe weather
Le Bilboquet in Sag Harbor describes itself as offering a ‘St. Tropez vibe on this side of the Atlantic’
Instead, guests reportedly sought refuge at the American Hotel, which is a four-minute walk inland.
Le Bilboquet in Sag Harbor describes itself as offering a ‘St. Tropez vibe on this side of the Atlantic,’ according to its website.
It has a sister restaurant in Manhattan as well as others across the country including in Palm Beach, Atlanta, Dallas and Denver.
‘No matter which of our doors you walk through, you are home at Le Bilboquet,’ the website states.
It also boasts about creating an ‘elegant atmosphere’ with its ‘golden rule’ being ‘dress to impress.’
Bilboquet owner Philippe Delgrange told Page Six that the establishment had done what it could during the adverse conditions.
‘Everyone from outside, from the very large deck, were safely moved indoors.
‘We managed the crowd as best as [we] could to ensure the safety and comfort of our guests,’ he said.
It claims: ‘No matter which of our doors you walk through, you are home at Le Bilboquet’
It also boasts about creating an ‘elegant atmosphere’ with its ‘golden rule’ being ‘dress to impress’
The Daily Mail has contacted Le Bilboquet for further comment.
Following Saturday night’s storm, thousands of residents were left without power.
Many traffic lights at intersections were also still defunct on Monday.
However, at the time of writing, there are no longer any weather warnings or advisories in effect in Sag Harbor, which attracts approximately 1.2 million visitors each year.
