Michelin-star chef hits back at protesters
14 ARRESTS AFTER SIT-IN AT TOP RESTAURANT
MICHELIN-STAR chef Simon Martin has hit back after Animal Rebellion activists staged a sit-in protest at his restaurant Mana.
Police arrested 14 people on suspicion of aggravated trespass at the restaurant on Blossom Street, Ancoats, on Saturday evening.
They have since been bailed pending further enquiries, Greater Manchester Police said in a statement.
Video filmed inside the restaurant showed demonstrators holding mock menus aloft with the courses outlining the group’s demands, such as ‘support for farmers and fishing communities to transition to a plantbased food system.’
Award-winning chef-patron Simon said: “The protest last night at Mana disrupted the operation of a small business that has already suffered economically from Covid and the ongoing energy crisis during the busiest night of the week. Guests who were celebrating birthdays and anniversaries had their meals delayed by three hours, and our hard-working staff had to work into
the late hours of the night. While we tried to communicate with the protesters during the course of the evening, politely asking them to leave, they refused to speak with us.
“Whilst everyone is entitled to their opinions and beliefs, we are confused as to why the protesters chose to target a restaurant that prioritizes sustainability and animal welfare, instead of a corporate fast food chain.”
A spokesman for Animal Rebellion clamed that Mana was targeted because ‘it refuses to cater to vegans’ and has ‘a meat-heavy menu.’ Simon has responded to that claim to clarify that Mana offers a full vegetarian menu, but said: “We do not cater for
lactose intolerances for logistical reasons.”
In the footage filmed from inside the restaurant, police officers are seen filing into the restaurant as members of the public look on. They are seen to try and speak to some of those seated, who appear to remain silent. Green mock menus can be seen on the table, as some people film on their mobile phones. Towards the end of the video, it shows some officers putting handcuffs on one of the protesters. Simon added: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank our guests on the evening for their patience and good spirits.”