Simpson's-in-the-Strand fights to clear its name

Historic London restaurant Simpson’s-in-the-Strand is fighting to clear its name following a food poisoning incident last year.

Westminster Council environmental health officers issued a food hygiene improvement notice on the property after 31 customers fell ill. Further investigations linked an outbreak of salmonella to an event at the restaurant on 18 March 2005.

Owner The Savoy Group is currently embroiled in an appeal against the allegations at Marylebone magistrate’s court.

The court has heard that inspectors found evidence of eggs from non-vaccinated flocks at Simpson’s. Simpson’s lawyer, David Travers, played down the incident however, saying that egg samples taken from the restaurant had not shown any signs of salmonella.

“There was an allegation some guests got salmonella. This cannot be proven,” he said.

The Savoy Group and Westminster Council have refused to comment while the hearing is adjourned. Both parties said they were confident of victory when the verdict is announced on 30 March.

By Jen Crothers

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