Cockroaches have plagued a popular chain coffee shop, with customers claiming they have seen “so many bugs”.
Several people have reported that the Costa branch in High Street, Harlesden, has had a bug infestation problem over recent weeks.
Costa says “immediate action” has been taken to resolve the issue.
Many people were revolted after a post was shared on Thursday (January 25) on the Love Harlesden! residents’ forum group on Facebook.
One person said: “Popped into Harlesden Costa this morning, which I don’t usually do, and now I know why – horrifically saw roaches crawling around. Disgusting.”
Several pictures were published, showing what appeared to be cockroaches on the shop floor and near the counter.
Such claims had also been made by other customers on the branch's Google review page.
Four weeks ago, one review under the name ‘Mr J’ said: “Went in to Costa today and right at the till is a cockroach. The man put a cup on top and left it on the counter while serving people. Twenty minutes later, it is still under the cup, also table and chairs are dirty and they seem to allow customers to put their feet on the sofa area with no socks on! ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTING!”
Another person wrote a week ago: “This Costa has a cockroach infestation. I ordered a drink and while I was waiting, I saw so many bugs scuttling across the counter and under the coffee machine. It was absolutely disgusting. I threw my drink in the bin. This is not hygienic at all.”
Over 98 people commented on the Facebook post, sharing their repulsion at the matter.
The Costa branch holds a 5/5 food hygiene rating after an inspection on January 24, 2023.
Inspectors found that both the hygienic food handling and management of food safety were ‘very good’, while the cleanliness and condition of facilities and the building was found to be ‘good’.
A Costa Coffee Spokesperson said: “We take the hygiene and cleanliness of our stores very seriously and have robust cleaning procedures in place in all stores. Since being made aware of this issue, our franchise partner, that owns and operates the store, has taken immediate action to rectify the matter."
Brent Council was approached to see if it would consider sending its environmental health team to the café to reassess its food hygiene rating.
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