A former celebrity hotspot in Notting Hill was shut down after it was found infested with cockroaches, mice and rats.
Beach Blanket Babylon once boasted visitors such as the Prince and Princess of Wales, Rita Ora and Selena Gomez, but conditions at the restaurant got so bad that even food was contaminated with mice droppings.
Food safety officers from Kensington and Chelsea Council made the disgusting discoveries during a series of inspections at the restaurant on 45 Ledbury Road between September 2022 and March 2023.
The council’s inspectors also found droppings around the premises and packets of till white seeds, cocoa powder and flaked almonds gnawed by mice.
During an inspection in February 2023, officers also found no hot water and further issues with pest control.
The west London council ultimately took the business operators Robert Kenneth Newmark and Conor George Thomson-Moore to court following the inspections.
Mr Thomson-Moore pleaded guilty to four charges at City of London Magistrates’ Court on Thursday April 3 2025, and is due to be sentenced later this year.
Meanwhile, the charges against Mr Newmark were withdrawn.
Councillor Cem Kemahli, in charge of planning and public realm, said: “Neglecting food hygiene not only puts public health at risk, but also undermines trust and credibility within the community.
“The borough remains a hub for its vibrant restaurant scene for residents and visitors and it’s vital that businesses take necessary steps to keep their premises clean and safe.
“We will not hesitate to take action and call out those who not only blatantly disregard health risks but break the law as we continue to work towards becoming a safer and fairer borough.”