Mayfair restaurant can reopen with new conditions after alleged slashing

The Mistress of Mayfair, a high-end restaurant in Mayfair, has been permitted to remain open following a licensing hearing. The venue's licence had been temporarily suspended by Westminster City Council's Licensing Sub-Committee after an incident on August 10, during which Rhys Copas allegedly suffered a throat wound.

Mr Copas sustained an 8cm injury that exposed his voice box and damaged nerves. Lucci Guthrie, 28, has been charged with attempted murder in connection with the incident and is scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey.

Licensing Hearing and New Conditions

A full licensing hearing on September 7 determined that The Mistress of Mayfair could continue its operations, subject to a set of new conditions. These restrictions were put in place after licensing officers and police raised concerns about the venue's operation on the night of the alleged attack. The restaurant had voluntarily closed after the August 10 incident.

Concerns raised included the venue operating in a manner similar to a nightclub, which was not in line with its licence. Police also noted that the suspect's identification had not been scanned upon entry, a breach of the venue's licence conditions. Additionally, door staff were not wearing distinctive clothing.

A representative for Westminster City Council stated that the premises holder did not operate to the expected standard. While remedial action was commended, the council emphasised the expectation of compliance with licence conditions at all times.

Legal counsel for the restaurant, Gary Grant, indicated that the primary concern since the incident has been the victim's well-being and ensuring customer safety. He stated that if customers do not feel safe, the business has no purpose.

Operational Changes

The new conditions imposed on The Mistress of Mayfair's licence include an earlier cessation of alcohol sales on Sundays. The venue is also prohibited from being used as a dance floor. Furthermore, security staff must now be easily identifiable. The former General Manager has also been replaced.

Police were called to the venue at 12:20am on August 10, where Mr Copas was found to have suffered a significant bleed.