The flamboyant proprietor of an acclaimed Indian restaurant in Cheshire has reportedly fled the United Kingdom after being slapped with a series of serious food safety charges. Sajjadur Aziz Malik, 49, is believed to have left the country following the discovery of a widespread cockroach infestation at his historic eatery, The Cottage.
Historic Venue, Modern Scandal
The restaurant, situated in a 16th-century former guesthouse in Warrington, traded heavily on its historic connections. It was reputedly where Oliver Cromwell stayed during the English Civil War, and the site from which he sent dispatches proclaiming victories. The building even bears a plaque commemorating this link. Malik's establishment, which opened in 2002 and underwent a National Trust-approved refurbishment, won a regional Tommy Miah award in 2018 and counted comedian Roy 'Chubby' Brown among its clientele.
However, this illustrious history was shattered by contemporary failings. Environmental health inspectors from Warrington Borough Council discovered both live and dead cockroaches throughout the premises. The pests were found inside almond flour, sugar, and spices, as well as within refrigerators, freezers, chillers, and even a food preparation bowl.
Charges and Disappearance
The restaurant was shut down in December 2024 after receiving a damning zero-star food hygiene rating the previous July. Malik was subsequently charged with 11 offences under the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013. The allegations paint a picture of systemic neglect:
- Failing to control pests, with cockroaches found throughout food preparation and storage areas.
- Storing ingredients in non-sealing bins, leading to contamination.
- Maintaining unhygienic equipment, including a cooking range and a broken fridge used for desserts.
- Having grease-encrusted extraction units and inadequate hand-washing facilities.
- Failing to ensure staff were properly trained in food hygiene.
When the case was heard at Warrington Magistrates' Court, Malik failed to appear. A warrant was issued for his arrest, but the council's lawyer, Rachel Maddocks, stated they believed he had "fled the country" and could not be found. His company, Samco Spice Limited, also faces charges. The case was adjourned until 11 March to allow investigators time to locate him.
From Restaurateur to Fugitive Entrepreneur
According to his Facebook profile, Sajjadur Aziz Malik, originally from Oldham, is now living in Bangladesh. There, he claims to be running a business that encourages young entrepreneurs. He also states he has a media background and previously worked with Channel 4. Companies House records list him as having run a Bangladeshi TV company and a multi-media organisation.
The historic site of The Cottage now houses a new Indian restaurant called Flaver's, which has achieved a five-star food hygiene rating. The dramatic fall of the once-celebrated Cottage serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of food safety standards, regardless of a venue's reputation or historic pedigree.
