A prominent Michelin-starred restaurant owner stands accused of spiking a woman's cocktail with a date-rape drug at one of London's most exclusive private members' clubs, with prosecutors alleging he acted out of impatience rather than pursuing genuine seduction.
Exclusive Venue Incident
Vikas Nath, a 63-year-old restaurateur with establishments across the UK and Spain, allegedly used a straw to introduce gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) into the woman's spicy margarita while seated in the rooftop garden bar of Annabel's in Mayfair. The incident occurred on January 15, 2024, at the celebrity-frequented venue known for its discretion and exclusivity.
Alert Staff Intervention
Observant bar staff reportedly witnessed Nath retrieving a small Madagascan vanilla extract bottle from his pocket, dipping a straw into the container to draw liquid, then transferring the substance to the cocktail. Their quick thinking prevented potential harm when they substituted the contaminated drink with a fresh version before the woman could consume it.
Prosecutor Tim Clark KC told Southwark Crown Court that Nath disposed of the GBL bottle in a toilet cistern as police were en route to the establishment. While Nath admits to spiking the beverage, he maintains his intention was merely to help the woman relax rather than facilitate sexual activity.
Prosecution's Allegations
Mr Clark presented a contrasting narrative to jurors, suggesting Nath grew frustrated with what he perceived as insufficient romantic progress. Text message evidence revealed exchanges where Nath expressed desires to "get laid, not hold hands" and questioned whether he possessed the patience for "old-fashioned seduction."
Surveillance Evidence
The court heard concerning details about surveillance equipment at Nath's Knightsbridge residence, where a motion-activated camera was installed in the bedroom. Nath acknowledged previously using such devices to covertly record intimate encounters, though this admission forms part of a broader evidential picture rather than direct proof regarding the January incident.
"This case presents unusual circumstances because there's no dispute that Mr Nath spiked her drink," explained Mr Clark during proceedings. "His acceptance comes as little surprise given that CCTV footage from Annabel's captured the act clearly. Thanks to vigilant staff members, the compromised beverage was secured and the potential victim was promptly warned."
Defence Position and Ongoing Trial
Nath's legal team has entered not guilty pleas to charges of attempting to administer a substance with intent and possession of a Class B drug. The defendant claims to have been experiencing personal difficulties at the time of the alleged offence, suggesting emotional distress contributed to his actions.
The trial continues as jurors examine conflicting narratives about motivation and intent, with the prosecution emphasizing text messages indicating sexual frustration and the defence highlighting Nath's claimed psychological state. The case underscores ongoing concerns about drink spiking in social venues and the responsibilities of hospitality staff in identifying suspicious behaviour.
