Woko, a popular Asian restaurant chain, was forced to cease operations at the Saint Genis 2 shopping center in Saint-Genis-Laval, near Lyon, this Tuesday, December 9, 2025. The closure, mandated by the Rhône Prefecture, comes after inspectors uncovered severe hygiene violations, posing a significant threat to consumer health.
Cockroaches and a Litany of Failures: The Full Extent of the Crisis
The decision to close the establishment followed a formal notice issued on November 13, 2025, indicating a deteriorating sanitary situation. The subsequent inspection, conducted by two agents from the Departmental Directorate for the Protection of Populations (DDPP) of the Rhône, revealed a shocking state of affairs.
The most alarming discovery was the presence of live and dead cockroaches within the production and storage areas. However, the list of deficiencies extended far beyond this initial finding, painting a grim picture of systemic neglect:
- A clear lack of maintenance and cleaning of production, staff, and storage facilities, as well as equipment.
- Absence of HACCP references, an adapted Guide to Good Hygiene Practices (GBPH), or an internally validated Sanitary Control Plan (PMS).
- No management or monitoring of high-risk operations.
- Poor conditions for storing and preserving raw materials and prepared foodstuffs.
- Lack of self-monitoring procedures.
- Possession of expired food products.
- Absence of traceability for foodstuffs.
- Inadequate handwashing facilities for the activity.
- Lack of a hygienic space for storing work uniforms.
One customer, identified as Steph, shared a harrowing experience on Google Reviews in November 2025: “I just left the restaurant and I’m still in shock. I found a cockroach running on my plate. The staff looked down but had no reaction other than a refund, which is the bare minimum. I should have been paid compensation! I’m traumatized, I don’t dare go anywhere else in the mall. A nightmare!”
“A Threat to Consumer Health”: Official Statement and Reopening Conditions
The Rhône Prefecture explicitly stated that the continuation of Woko’s activities “constitutes a threat to consumer health due to the significant probability of contamination (microbiological, chemical, physical) and the resulting risks of intoxication.”
To reopen, the restaurant owners will be required to implement 48 specific modifications. Reopening will only be considered after a new inspection confirms all necessary improvements have been made. When contacted by actu Lyon, the restaurant declined to comment on the situation.
Unanswered Questions and Broader Implications
This incident raises critical questions about the oversight of hygiene standards in popular dining establishments, especially within busy commercial centers. How could such severe breaches persist despite an earlier formal notice? What mechanisms are in place to ensure ongoing compliance, and are they sufficient?
The closure of Woko serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking behind the doors of seemingly reputable eateries. For consumers, it underscores the importance of vigilance and the need for robust regulatory enforcement to safeguard public health.
The full financial and reputational impact on the Woko chain and the Saint Genis 2 shopping center remains to be seen. However, the immediate consequence is a significant blow to consumer trust and a clear message that hygiene standards are non-negotiable.
The incident also highlights the power of public feedback and the critical role of official inspections in uncovering and rectifying such serious issues. As the restaurant works towards meeting the required standards, the community will undoubtedly be watching closely to ensure that such a situation does not recur.
