The Southampton pub where people pay to be insulted

The Duke of Wellington is the first pub in the city to herald “Rusty's Diner” - a rude night-time event where customers enjoy the worst possible dining experience.

Pub managers Rusty Pitlee, 39, and his husband Rob, 40, were inspired by Karen's Diner, an international chain of theme restaurants where customers are roasted by rude staff. 

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Head Chef Rob said: "Rusty came up with the idea and worked out what we could do. We finalised the event together."

He added: "It's a bit like a Karen's Diner. As soon as (customers) come in the experience starts."

"People come to be insulted, they love it. For example, when the customer asks for cutlery, the waiter tells them to get it themselves," said Rusty.

The Rusty's Diner menu (Image: Newsquest)

The Facebook page of the Bugle Street pub warns customers to "really search Karen's Diner online before booking this event with us". 

The couple have even come up with a special Rusty Diner menu, featuring basic b**** burgers, dirty fries and Harry's boring veggie dog.

"The food is normal, it's the service that is bad," Rob said.

The menu carries a rude note at the bottom asking customers to let them know about allergies and dietary requirements.

It adds: "We are not f****** mind readers." 

Pub manager Rusty Pitlee (Image: Newsquest)

Reflecting on their last event in November, Rob said: “The customers say it's brilliant, best night they've ever had.

“We've had two (events) already. One first customer came to the second event. We book out experiences for families.”

Seats for this unusual event have previously sold out in less than 20 minutes.

Ex-bouncer Nick, 45, tried to get into Rusty's Diner on the first Rude event night.

"I lost out because of how quickly it booked up," he said.

"I spoke to people, they said it was amazing."

He added: "The Duke of Wellington should be a destination pub."

Due to popular demand, Rusty and Rob are looking to organise another rude night.

Details will be advertised on the pub's Facebook page.

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