Memphis restaurant owner defends denying service to National Guard members

Published: Jul. 15, 2026 at 2:44 PM CDT|Updated: 3 hours ago

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - A Midtown restaurant owner is defending his decision on denying service to National Guard members.

Action News 5 received dozens of calls and emails Tuesday night from viewers about social media posts claiming Tamboli’s Pasta & Pizza turned away service members who were part of the Memphis Safe Task Force.

Memphis restaurant owner defends denying service to National Guard members
Memphis restaurant owner defends denying service to National Guard members(WMC)

We reached out to the owner, Miles Tamboli, who declined an interview. He said he and his business have received responses filled with “hatred and vitriol” from the community. In a statement, he confirmed the denial of service:

Since the incident, the business has faced backlash but has also seen an influx of support from the community, including District Attorney Steve Mulroy, who commented “great place!” on a Tuesday post featuring a menu item.

Memphis restaurant owner defends denying service to National Guard members
Memphis restaurant owner defends denying service to National Guard members(Facebook)

State Representative John Gillespie posted to social media Wednesday against the decision to refuse service:

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