The outbreak, which affected diners who ate at the restaurant between April 25 and May 1, prompted the café to voluntarily close on May 1 to allow for a full public health investigation. In a letter posted to customers, the restaurant stated that the County of San Diego's Department of Environmental Health and Quality performed "multiple, extensive health inspections and interviews" but was ultimately "unable to determine the source of the outbreak." As a result, the health department has granted Aladdin approval to resume operations.
While the restaurant did voluntarily close its doors, a sign initially posted outside the restaurant claimed the closure was due to a water heater issue. "Aladdin is temporarily closed due to an issue with our water heater," the sign read. "We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience this may have caused you. We are working to resolve this issue immediately. We will be back open within a couple days."
The outbreak quickly escalated in the days following the initial closure. Legal action was filed last week in San Diego Superior Court by two individuals who allege they became ill after dining at the restaurant, with one requiring hospitalization. Represented by food safety attorney Ron Simon, the plaintiffs are seeking compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and other damages. Simon, who specializes in foodborne illness litigation, said additional lawsuits may follow.
"No one expects to end up in the hospital from a night out at a local restaurant," Simon told reporters last week.
Symptoms of salmonella infection can include fever, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, often developing 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food. While most people recover without medical treatment, the infection can be serious for infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
"No one expects to end up in the hospital from a night out at a local restaurant," Simon told reporters last week.
Symptoms of salmonella infection can include fever, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, often developing 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food. While most people recover without medical treatment, the infection can be serious for infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
"We want to emphasize that our customers' health and safety is our number one priority," the restaurant wrote, noting that it has maintained an "A" health grade during its 32 years in business. The letter acknowledged the gravity of the allegations but reiterated Aladdin's commitment to cleanliness and quality, stating, "Serving high quality, fresh food is the ethos of our business."
In its letter, Aladdin expressed gratitude for the public’s support: "Your support and kind messages over the past week have provided us with so much comfort and strength… You are the best customers a business could hope for and we look forward to welcoming you back."
As of April 28, San Diego County had reported 184 salmonella cases so far this year.
Originally published on May 12, 2025.