
A New York gourmet market employee has taken legal action after her pricey salmon lunches mysteriously vanished from the workplace fridge, leading to an unusual court battle.
The plaintiff, whose name remains undisclosed, claims her specially prepared meals - including a $29 salmon dish - were repeatedly stolen at the upscale Citarella market where she works. The alleged thefts occurred despite her clearly labelling the food with her name.
Workplace Tensions Boil Over
According to court documents, the situation escalated when the employee confronted a colleague she suspected of being the culprit. The confrontation reportedly turned physical, with both parties accusing each other of assault.
The salmon saga began in 2022 when the worker noticed her meals disappearing. After multiple incidents, she began documenting each theft, even installing a camera that allegedly captured the suspect in the act.
Legal Action Taken
The lawsuit, filed in Manhattan Supreme Court, seeks unspecified damages for the stolen food and emotional distress. Legal experts note that while workplace lunch theft might seem trivial, it can create significant tension in professional environments.
Citarella, known for its high-end seafood and gourmet offerings, has declined to comment on the ongoing legal matter. The case highlights how seemingly minor workplace conflicts can spiral into major disputes.