Chris Cuomo tells restaurant owner who 'banned' vaccinated customers that he 'sounds like an idiot'

On Cuomo Prime Time Wednesday, Chris Cuomo invited Huntington Beach, California restaurant owner Tony Roman on for an interview that quickly began to go off the rails. Roman made headlines recently when he posted a sign in the window of his restaurant, Basilico’s Pasta e Vino, stating that they would only serve unvaccinated customers. The sign also read, “We have zero tolerance for treasonous, anti-American stupidity.” Roman explained, in his own way, that the sign was to keep out those who would be upset by it.

“Like I say to people when they ask me, if they're so blinded with their rage and their hate,” Roman said, “I tell them, ‘You know what, if you don't understand it, maybe we should put up a sign that says you're too stupid to come into the restaurant.’ I mean, it’s very simple.”

The interview was painfully awkward at times and contentious at others, as Cuomo and Roman compared vaccination status, Roman listed far-right talking points on COVID-19 restrictions, and even brought up Cuomo’s brother, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. Then the interview came to its inevitable end.

“You’re pro-freedom but people can't wear masks. Tony, it doesn't make sense. It really doesn’t,” Cuomo said. “I gave you a chance to make the case. I wish you well. I hope your family stays safe.” “I made my case,” Roman replied. “You didn't have much to say. You didn’t have much to say.” “I mean, honestly, you sound like an idiot,” Cuomo responded, “so there’s not much to say. Tony, good luck with it. See ya.” “And so do you,” Roman retorted. “Yeah, only for having you on the show,” Cuomo said as Roman disappeared from the screen.