Salt Bae’s Empire Crumbles: Toxic Work Culture and Lawsuits Tarnish Celebrity Chef’s Reputation

Nusret Gökçe, internationally known as “Salt Bae,” has recently seen his fame and fortune shaken as he faces serious accusations from former employees.

The complaints refer to a toxic and oppressive work environment within his restaurant network. Nusret, who became famous for his theatrical way of salting steaks and the exorbitant prices of his restaurants, appears to be gradually losing the prestige that established him internationally.

The explosive rise of Salt Bae: From humble restaurateur to fame

The Turkish chef became the most famous person in the restaurant world in 2017 when a mere 36-second video of him salting a steak in his characteristic manner went viral. His salting move, with the salt falling from his hand like fairy dust, impressed the public, and he soon earned the nickname “Salt Bae.” His fame skyrocketed, leading to an unstoppable rise to the top, with NusR-et restaurants opening in cities like Milan, Dubai, Miami, and London, attracting celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Snoop Dogg, and David Beckham.

The ‘Golden Age’ and the glamorous image

His vision was not limited to refined flavours. His dishes, such as the Tomahawk steak poured with 24-karat gold leaf that cost £700, became legendary. His menu was full of luxurious, extravagant dishes that offered a high-end gastronomic experience. Customers, most of whom were celebrities, watched impressed as he ritually salted the dishes, with him often playing the restaurant’s “star,” stealing the show and constantly posting photos and videos on social media.

Allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct

His reputation, however, began to take a heavy hit. Former employees describe a “toxic” work culture that dominated his restaurants, where employees were pressured to work exhausting hours, and he imposed severe penalties for making mistakes.

The accusations coming from former employees include Nusret’s demand for female employees to give him massages, while others complain that he sought to “exploit” his fame with photos and selfies with his staff.

A former employee who spoke anonymously said the work atmosphere was “hostile and intimidating” and that she had been accused of minor infractions, such as drinking water, while employees obeyed unreasonable demands and worked excessively long hours.

The crisis and lawsuits: The ‘wicked’ world of Nusret

Lawsuits against him and his restaurants have begun to accumulate. From the case of a former barmaid who sued him for sexual harassment and insults in Manhattan in 2019, to allegations of employee exploitation and refusal to pay overtime, the image of Salt Bae is collapsing. The legal involvement regarding accusations of discriminatory behaviour and sexual harassment continues, creating a cloudy future for the progression of his career.

The relationship with P Diddy and the scandal

In addition to the complaints about the toxic culture in his restaurants, Nusret was back in the media spotlight due to his close relationship with the rapper P Diddy. Their friendship sparked reactions when Diddy was accused of violent acts against his former partner, Cassie. Despite the outcry, the chef continued to associate with Diddy, posting photos and statements on social media, which reinforced his negative image and the accusations of bad company that negatively affected his reputation.

From fame to outrage

Salt Bae’s fall from the top is preordained. From excessive extravagance and arrogance to complaints from former employees, his empire appears to be collapsing. Exorbitant prices, degrading work rules, and controversial social connections have cost him credibility internationally.

 (Information from protothema.gr)