The Ornate Ice Cream Saloons That Served Unchaperoned Women

(via AtlasObscura)  Throughout the 19th century, restaurants catered to a predominately male clientele. They were places where men went to socialize, discuss business, and otherwise escape the responsibilities of work and home. It was considered inappropriate for women to dine alone, and those who did were assumed to be of low moral character. Demand for single ladies eateries led to the rise of ice cream saloons… read more here.