A salmonella outbreak linked to Aladdin Mediterranean Café in San Diego’s Clairemont neighborhood has resulted in at least 33 confirmed cases and eight hospitalizations, prompting legal action and a public health investigation.
Outbreak Details and Health Impact
San Diego County health officials reported that individuals who dined at Aladdin Mediterranean Café between April 25 and April 26, 2025, began exhibiting symptoms consistent with salmonella infection, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. The affected individuals range in age from 18 to 79 years old.
As of May 7, 2025, the number of confirmed cases has risen to 33, with eight individuals requiring hospitalization. Health officials are continuing to monitor the situation and have not yet identified the specific source of the contamination.
Legal Actions Initiated
In response to the outbreak, Ron Simon & Associates, a national food safety law firm, has filed lawsuits on behalf of affected individuals. The first lawsuit was filed in San Diego County Superior Court on May 6, 2025, representing Daniel Meza and Nubia Munguia, who both fell ill after consuming lamb and chicken dishes at the café on April 26. Munguia required hospitalization due to the severity of her symptoms.
A second lawsuit has also been filed by the same firm as the number of outbreak victims grows. The lawsuits allege that Aladdin Mediterranean Café failed to adhere to proper food safety protocols, leading to the contamination.
Restaurant Closure and Investigation
Following the identification of the outbreak, Aladdin Mediterranean Café voluntarily closed its doors to allow for a thorough investigation by the County’s Environmental Health and Quality Department. The restaurant remains closed as officials work to determine the source of the contamination and ensure that there is no ongoing risk to public health.
Health inspectors conducted environmental inspections on April 29 and May 2, 2025. While no violations were found during the May 2 inspection, the April 29 inspection noted a major violation related to food safety protocols and a minor violation concerning food holding temperatures.
Public Health Advisory
San Diego County health officials advise anyone who dined at Aladdin Mediterranean Café on April 25 or 26 and is experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, or fever to seek medical attention and report their illness to the County’s Department of Environmental Health. Prompt reporting can aid in the ongoing investigation and help prevent further cases.
Understanding Salmonella
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause gastrointestinal illness in humans. Symptoms typically appear 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food and can include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. While most individuals recover without treatment, the infection can be severe, especially for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Ongoing Monitoring and Legal Support
The situation remains under close observation by health officials, and the number of reported cases may increase as more individuals come forward. Ron Simon & Associates continues to accept cases related to this outbreak and encourages affected individuals to seek legal counsel to understand their rights and potential compensation.
For more information on the outbreak and legal assistance, individuals can visit the Ron Simon & Associates website or contact the County’s Department of Environmental Health.
