RESTAURANTS in London’s Brick Lane making false claims that they’ve been recommended by Time Out are getting a tough warning about risking prosecution. The warning was made after complaints from diners about false recommendations’ displayed in some windows

By Mike Brooke

RESTAURANTS in London’s Brick Lane making false claims that they’ve been recommended by Time Out are getting a tough warning about risking prosecution.

The warning was made today by Tower Hamlets council after complaints from diners about false recommendations’ displayed in some windows.

The Town Hall has received 14 complaints so far this year about specific restaurants said to be falsely advertising that they have been highly recommended’ by Time Out and other publications.

ACTION

“We are going to take action over this,” warned council cabinet member Abdal Ullah.

“Where restaurants have been genuinely praised, they should be proud of displaying this in their windows.

“But if some are fabricating reviews for display, they are conning customers and not competing fairly for business.”

Tower Hamlets regards Brick Lane as the jewel in the East End’s crown—and does not want it tainted with dodgy practice which might put punters off.

REPUTATION

“It is illegal to display false recommendations,” added Cllr Ullah. “We’ll be taking action against anyone found doing this.

“Brick Lane is world famous and people come from miles for the food here.”

The Town Hall’s Trading Standards office is now looking into claims about reviews in eating out’ guides.