Inspectors discover rodent nest in fridge after restaurant owner requested visit

An east London restaurant was closed on the spot after inspectors discovered a widespread rodent infestation including a mouse nest in the motor of a kitchen fridge.

Environmental health officers visited Pranzos Piri Piri in Leyton on 28 June, following a request from the owner for a food hygiene rating reassessment. As well as the infestation they discovered extensive food debris, dirt and grease on the kitchen floors and walls.

The restaurant, operated by Tecnodeals Limited, had previously held a food hygiene rating of one.

Cllr Khevyn Limbajee, cabinet member for community safety at Waltham Forest Council, said: “While we are always vigilant in monitoring hotspots, given the extent of the health and safety breaches at Pranzos, it’s shocking that Mr Raheem was confident enough to actively request an inspection.

“I am pleased to see that environmental health officers made such a swift intervention in shutting it down, and that Thames Magistrates Court agreed for it to remain closed until the risk to public health and safety is removed.”