"where were you hiding so many of these"
THIS. it shouldn't matter what i wear as long as i can pay for the service. dress codes are for stuff like wedding reception where i eat for free
while I personally agree, I feel like maybe there's some sense to it depending on how you look at it
The way other guests present themselves and behave can have a notable effect on the general atmosphere. Like, everyone following a set dress code and etiquette is completely different from if both of those were totally free-form.
This true the same way whether everyone is there "for the occasion" (like wedding etc.) or "for themselves" (like in a fancy restaurant)
Sounds kinda pompous, but then again so are probably many of the people who prefer such an experience for their outings