Salmonella Outbreak Under Investigation at San Diego Café

San Diego, CA – County public health officials are investigating a salmonella outbreak linked to Aladdin Mediterranean Café in the Clairemont neighborhood of San Diego. The outbreak has affected 14 individuals, with ages ranging from 18 to 79, who reported symptoms after dining at the café between April 25 and April 26, 2025.

According to the county, five individuals have been hospitalized due to the infection. The investigation is being conducted by the Environmental Health and Quality Department in collaboration with Public Health Services.

“No source of the outbreak has been determined; however, once the investigation is complete and it is determined there is no ongoing risk, the restaurant will be cleared to resume operation,” officials stated. Aladdin Café has voluntarily closed its doors to support the investigation, allowing health officials to conduct testing and interview staff.

Salmonella bacteria cause an infection known as Salmonellosis. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea that might be bloody or mucousy, abdominal cramps, and fever. Symptoms usually appear 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food, and the illness can last between four to seven days.

People at higher risk for severe illness from salmonella include children under five, adults over 65, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.

As of April 28, the county has documented 184 cases of Salmonellosis in 2025. In comparison, there were 753 cases in 2024, 685 in 2023, and 683 in 2022.