Boston's 'Salt Bae' restaurant fails COVID-19 safety regulations and must close, city says
A popular Instagram star is catching flak after Boston's Licensing Board ordered his latest restaurant venture to close for failing to meet COVID-19 public safety standards, a city spokesperson revealed.
The restaurant, Nusr-Et Boston, is part of a chain of steakhouses headed by Turkish celebrity chef Nusret Gökçe."
"Salt Bae," as he is better known, became famous on social media for the dramatic flair he added when butchering and salting his meat.
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Turkish chef Nusret Gökçe shot to fame in early 2017 after his peculiar technique for sprinkling salt was filmed, and memed to the enth degree. Supplied
Violations listed on the city's website included patrons and employees not wearing masks, along with blocked fire exits. Multiple complaints on the city's 311 website also described cramped quarters, with many customers and employees going maskless.
Video Gökçe posted to Instagram last week showed people closely lined up outside the restaurant, most in masks but some without, as crowds cheered the chef.
The city responded to the violations by ordering the restaurant to immediately cease operations, and indefinitely suspended its alcohol beverages license.
An emergency hearing has been scheduled for September 29, a city spokesperson confirmed.
The restaurant chain did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
