Filthy Northolt Restaurant Fined

It's believed Thamel Bar and Grill has now closed down

A dirty and rodent infested Northolt restaurant is believed to have closed down and its owner fined after inspectors found health and hygiene risks.

The Director of Thamel Bar and Grill on Pett's Hill, Vijay Rai, pleaded guilty on 29 October 2018 to two offences under the Food Safety Food (Hygiene) Regulations 2006 for failing to keep the premises clean and failing to have adequate procedures to control pests. 

Mr Rai also pleaded guilty for offences under Health Act 2006 for failing to prevent people from smoking in the premises and failed to display smoking signs. Mr Rai received fines totalling £4000 and was ordered to pay the Councils costs of £914.

Council officers first checked compliance at the business on 18 April 2018 after complaints had been received alleging smoking was taking place inside and licensing conditions were being ignored.

Initial checks found evidence of poor cleaning and rodent activity throughout the area including the main kitchen. An officer also discovered persons smoking in an enclosed area with no attempts being made to stop smoking; additionally, ‘no smoking’ signs were not displayed.

As part of the regular inspections throughout the borough, council officers carry out unannounced visits to check compliance and respond to service requests and complaints.

Councillor Joanna Camadoo, cabinet member for community safety and inclusion, said: “Our officers work closely with local businesses to help them to operate within the law and they give advice and to help them to be well-run and safe. 

“Food hygiene, licensing and smoking compliance is vitally important and businesses who aren’t within the law won’t be tolerated. Thamel Bar and Grill failed to show care and safety and we’re pleased to see a fine being handed down to them. It shows that both the council and the courts are serious about enforcement and punishing those who openly break the rules.”

The council’s regulatory services team advise food businesses to regularly check that cleaning standards and licensing are being maintained and food safety procedures are implemented at all times.

Customers can check the food hygiene rating of their favourite restaurant or takeaway on www.food.gov.uk.

More information about the food hygiene is available by calling 020 8825 6666 or emailing foodsafety@ealing.gov.uk.

6th November 2018