Clapham Bao Bun Eatery Closes Its Doors for Good Following Rodent Infestation Discovery

A Chinese restaurant in South London appears to have ceased operations permanently following a recent inspection that uncovered significant hygiene violations. Dumplings & Baos, situated at 31 Clapham Park Road in Clapham, received the lowest possible food hygiene rating of zero out of five after an evaluation conducted by the Environmental Health team from Lambeth Council on 26 March 2026.

In the wake of the inspection, the establishment voluntarily shut its doors, a move not uncommon among businesses addressing hygiene concerns. However, indications suggest that Dumplings & Baos has now closed indefinitely, with its contact number no longer operational and the business listed as ‘permanently closed’ on Google. A comprehensive report, obtained through a Freedom of Information (FoI) request by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), highlights that the restaurant took the step to close after a “large amount” of mice droppings was discovered across various areas of the premises.

Serious Hygiene Violations Identified

The inspection revealed concerning levels of pest activity, with droppings observed in critical areas such as the kitchen near the wok cooker and upright fridge, as well as beneath sinks. An inspector noted, “I observed pest activity [mice droppings] in the kitchen next to the wok cooker and next to the upright fridge, under the sinks in the kitchen.” Further findings included droppings on food trays, beneath the oven, and under tables in the bao bun preparation area located within the dining space.

Compounding the hygiene issues, inspectors found noodles and cooked chicken improperly cooling in the outdoor rear area, raising alarms about potential cross-contamination of cooked products. The cleanliness of the bar area was described as “very poor,” with significant dirt and debris present on the floor. During the inspection, authorities mandated that the restaurant undertake immediate remedial measures, including thorough cleaning and disinfection of all areas where droppings were found, along with regular monitoring of these spaces.

Food Safety Concerns and Customer Reviews

In light of the risks associated with contaminated food, inspectors urged the restaurant to ensure that all food remains indoors during the cooling process. Despite these alarming findings, Dumplings & Baos had previously enjoyed a commendable average rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 468 reviews on Google. The report summarised the situation, stating, “The premises was voluntarily closed due to a large amount of mice droppings found in the kitchen and around the food preparation area in the restaurant.”

As the local community reflects on this closure, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of food safety and hygiene standards in the hospitality sector.