Knightsbridge restaurant forced to close following cockroach infestation

A restaurant in London’s Knightsbridge has been fined over £16,000 and was forced to close after inspectors discovered a cockroach-infested kitchen.

Masgouf London, a restaurant on Connaught Street, pleaded guilty to all five offences contrary to Regulation 19(1) of the Food Safety and Hygiene Regulations 2013.

The owners were required to pay £16,245 in fines, costs and victim surcharges in monthly instalments.

The case was heard at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 25 October after the council’s environmental health team conducted an investigation.

On 5 October 2022, environmental health officers found live cockroaches and mice droppings at the site, as well as boxes of fresh fish stored outside in waste areas. Cooked meat and rice had also been left to cool incorrectly.

The restaurant was ordered to close immediately following the inspection.

Councillor Aicha Less, deputy leader and cabinet member for communities, public protection and licensing, said: “We want residents and visitors to enjoy the city’s fantastic bars and restaurants safe in the knowledge that food is not being cooked in appalling conditions.”

“Westminster City Council will continue to work with businesses to ensure the highest levels of health and safety standards are consistently maintained and educate staff in the best hygiene practice.”