Salmonella Outbreak Triggers Lawsuits Against Aladdin Mediterranean Café

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Health inspectors at Aladdin Mediterranean Café amid salmonella outbreak investigation.

News Summary

Nearly 100 cases of salmonella have been linked to Aladdin Mediterranean Café in San Diego, leading to multiple lawsuits from affected diners. The outbreak has raised concerns about the café’s food safety protocols. With a majority of affected individuals hospitalized, health officials are investigating the exact source of the contamination. In response, the café has closed for cleaning, reopened, and reassured customers of their commitment to food safety. As investigations continue, more lawsuits are expected to emerge.

San Diego, CA – Nearly 100 Salmonella Cases Linked to Aladdin Mediterranean Café Prompt Multiple Lawsuits

Three lawsuits have been filed against Aladdin Mediterranean Café, as diners claim to have contracted salmonella while eating at the establishment. These legal actions were announced by the lawyers representing the plaintiffs on Thursday, amid rising concerns about the cafe’s food safety protocols.

According to San Diego County health officials, a total of 98 probable and confirmed cases of salmonella were reported from individuals who dined at the café between April 25 and May 1. The affected individuals’ ages range from as young as 1 to as old as 90, with at least nine requiring hospitalization due to severe symptoms related to the foodborne illness.

The exact source of the salmonella outbreak remains uncertain, as investigations continue. These types of outbreaks are often complex, and officials routinely face challenges in pinpointing the origin of contamination.

In response to the outbreak, Aladdin Mediterranean Café voluntarily closed its doors on May 1 for a thorough cleaning and inspection. The restaurant was allowed to reopen on May 10 after successfully passing a health department inspection that resulted in an ‘A’ grade. The café took additional precautions by deep cleaning, discarding all food products, and ensuring that its food handlers completed a clearance process before re-entering the premises.

Details of the Lawsuits

Attorney Ron Simon, who specializes in food poisoning litigation, is currently representing over 50 clients in relation to the salmonella outbreak. He anticipates that additional lawsuits may emerge as more individuals come forward to report their experiences.

Among the plaintiffs, Charles McLaughlin described feeling very ill following a visit to the café on April 26, which resulted in a positive salmonella test. Another plaintiff, Nubia Munguia, experienced severe symptoms that necessitated hospitalization. Common salmonella symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever, which typically manifest within 12 to 72 hours after exposure.

Current Investigation Trends

The recent salmonella outbreak is part of a broader trend, with a total of 184 cases logged in San Diego County in 2025 thus far. This situation illustrates the persistent challenges that health officials face in managing food safety in public dining establishments.

Health inspectors have indicated that the potential contamination could stem from human or animal feces; the precise origins of the outbreak remain under investigation. Notably, investigations often occur after surfaces have been cleaned and suspect food has been disposed of, complicating the process of identifying the source of foodborne illnesses.

Response from Aladdin Mediterranean Café

The owner of Aladdin Mediterranean Café acknowledged the situation and expressed concern for those affected. The café’s management reassured patrons that customer health and safety remains their top priority. For over 32 years, the café has maintained high health department grades, emphasizing their commitment to food safety standards throughout their operations.

As the situation develops, health officials and attorneys continue to track the outbreak and its implications for the café and those impacted. This ongoing investigation highlights the importance of food safety measures in restaurants to prevent future cases of foodborne illnesses.