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The 61-year-old felt otherwise and said he noticed people glaring at him as he walked into the restaurant.

"As I’m walking in, I notice right away, that they’re sizing me up, they’re looking me up before I even said a word," he said to CBS46.

The former Atlanta Hawks player says he requested a table outside and the employees said they did not have any available, despite plenty of empty seats. He also noted a woman working at the restaurant saying "…and plus, you have sweatpants on, and we’re trying to keep a level of elegance."

Wilkins justified being in compliance with the dress code, wearing designer casual pants and a t-shirt.

"During this time, I’m seeing people walk up in shorts, sneakers and shirts on," he recalled. "I know racism, I grew up with it, I’ve had a cross burning in my yard when I was in high school.”

Online reviews of Le Bilboquet show a history of complaints about the restaurant’s dress code, which most feel have racial undertones.

According to CBS46, one critic said she was denied because she “was curvy and had leggings.” Another reviewer said he was told jackets were required and was escorted out of the restaurant.

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