The first fine dining Armenian restaurant in London has closed after receiving a £60,000 fine after a Home Office raid.In the UK, not only Indian or Bangladeshi restaurants, even the most finest and expensive restaurants, employ illegal workers.After four unlawful workers were discovered during an unexpected enforcement visit, the owners of the upscale Lusin restaurant, where a kebab costs £46, were given the penalty.It is known that the employees were citizens of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. In September 2023, the Home Office reported that its officials conducted a "intelligence-led visit" to the location, which is close to Green Park and the Ritz Hotel. Four individuals who were discovered to be engaged in illegal labor were taken into custody and later released on bail.The Mira Food group, which owns the business, was handed a £60,000 penalty by the Government earlier this year.

Lusin opened its doors in October 2022, serving a menu curated by a two-Michelin-starred chef.

Its “famous cherry kebab” cost £46, while a mixed grill would set diners back £85.

The London branch was the latest expansion for the restaurant chain, which also has established eateries in the Saudi Arabian cities of Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar.

Its existing locations have served members of the Saudi Arabian royal family, as well as the late Kofi Annan, former secretary general of the United Nations.

A Home Office spokesperson said: “We are determined to clamp down both on illegal working and the exploitative treatment of illegal workers.

“Vulnerable individuals can find themselves trapped in unsafe and insecure conditions, facing exploitation and even modern-day slavery, often facilitated by organised criminal gangs.”

The Lusin building, in Hay Hill, is now up for rent.A notice posted on the restaurant’s window reads: “We regret to inform you that Lusin will be closed starting from 14th September 2024.

“We thank you for your continued support and loyalty.”