Hats Off to You

I’m not sure how to start this post, so I will just come out and say it. Why do people wear hats at the table when they’re eating? Will someone please explain it to me?

This morning, I went out for breakfast with my family. A simple thing. A social thing. But as I look around the room, I notice almost every table at the restaurant has at least one person wearing a hat while eating their food. Some of them toques. A baseball hat in most cases. One person who has their hat flipped backwards. And another wearing a full-on cowboy hat.

What. The. Hell?

When did this become a norm? I don’t mean to sound like a jerk, but really?! Why?

First of all, I find it rude. Traditionally, wearing a hat inside any house or establishment is considered disrespectful to the host.

Secondly, hats can obstruct eye contact, interfere with open communication and hide facial expressions. This may not seem like a big deal to some, but it sets the tone for interpersonal connections, especially when sharing a meal with others.

Thirdly, hats worn outdoors can collect dirt, dust, and other particles. Bringing these contaminants indoors can compromise cleanliness and contribute to an unhygienic environment. When you’re handling or eating food, this matters.

When I was growing up, this would not stand. I wouldn’t be allowed to eat.

Now, maybe this is old school. Perhaps I’m out of touch with what is acceptable and what is not. But if someone can give me a valid reason for wearing a hat indoors, at the table or otherwise, I’ll leave the matter alone. And no, “I just want to” does not count.

What are you protecting your head from? The fluorescent lights? The restaurant decor?? The imaginary birds that are going to swoop in and attack the few remaining hairs on your head???

(Hair thins out the older you get – this I understand. BUT still not a valid reason.)

Please, take this post for what it is – a man trying to understand. I can’t be the only one who grew up like this. Can I? And if I’m not, well, hats off to you!

When did basic manners become such a trivial thing?

If you have any thoughts, I’d love to hear them! Share in the comments section below.

Until next time.