Vikas Nath, a 63-year-old owner of a portfolio of top restaurants including the Michelin-starred Benares in Mayfair, has been accused of nine serious sexual offences against a single woman. The allegations, heard at Southwark Crown Court, span from June to October 2022 and include charges of rape, assault, and covert recording of private acts for sexual gratification.
Details of the Allegations
Prosecutors have outlined that Nath allegedly carried out sex attacks on the woman on two specific dates in 2022. He is accused of two counts of administering a substance to overpower her with the intent to engage in sexual activity, following claims that he spiked her drink. Additionally, Nath faces a single charge of rape, three counts of voyeurism, one of sexual assault, and two of assault by penetration.
Court Appearance and Denial
Nath, who resides in an apartment in Knightsbridge, appeared in court wearing a dark bottle green hoodie and jogging bottoms, and supported himself on a crutch. During the short hearing, he was remanded into custody. He has firmly denied all offences and is scheduled to stand trial in February next year.
His restaurant portfolio extends across the UK and Spain, with Benares being a notable establishment in London's upscale Mayfair district. The case has drawn significant attention due to his high-profile status in the culinary world.
