Homosexual waiter wins £21,500 compensation after harassment at Yauatcha

A homosexual waiter who worked at the Michelin-starred Yauatcha in London has been awarded more than £20,000 after he sued the restaurant for sexual harassment and constructive dismissal.

Vincent Ma told a panel at Central London Employment Tribunal that he had had his nipples tweaked by a diner and was humiliated by two male managers who simulated a sexual act in front of him at the Soho restaurant, which is owned by Hakkasan.

Ma was told by duty manager Imran Khaleel that his nipples were "sexy" when erect; and when he was groped by a customer, Khaleel asked him if he liked it. Ma also suffered homophobic jokes, including Khaleel pretending to kiss another male manager in front of him.

The tribunal ruled that Ma suffered harassment on the grounds of sexual orientation and was constructively dismissed. He was awarded £21,500 for lost earnings and injury to feelings.

After winning the case Ma commented: "I am delighted to have won but the money cannot compensate me for the harassment and humiliation I experienced."

Hakkasan declined to comment.

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By Kerstin Kühn

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