Soho House Bartender's Alleged Sexual Assault Lawsuit Sparks Workplace Safety Debate

A Soho House bartender has filed a lawsuit alleging that her supervisor at the ritzy LA venue drugged and raped her, igniting a scandal that has raised questions about workplace safety and corporate accountability. The woman, identified in court documents as Jane Doe, claims the assault occurred in September 2025 at Berenjak, the club's restaurant in Los Angeles. According to the complaint, the alleged perpetrator, Leonard Marcelo Vichique Maya, subjected her to repeated sexual advances, unwelcome physical touching, and made explicit comments about her appearance, including a remark that if they had met earlier, she 'would be pregnant by now.' These remarks were allegedly made in front of other supervisors and colleagues, creating a toxic work environment.

The lawsuit further accuses Soho House of failing to take corrective action after Doe reported the misconduct to two male supervisors. Despite her claims, the club conducted an investigation that concluded the rape allegations were 'uncorroborated,' leading to no disciplinary action against Vichique Maya. Doe alleges that she was forced to quit her job in February 2026 after continued harassment by Vichique Maya, even after informing three managers of the alleged assault. The lawsuit includes detailed claims that she was 'paralyzed and speechless' during the alleged attack, which occurred after a 'team-bonding' event where she consumed alcohol and awoke naked at Vichique Maya's apartment.

Doe reported the incident to her manager the following day, who allegedly responded by saying, 'these things happen between coworkers,' and dismissed her concerns, telling her, 'I have a restaurant to run; I can't have it blow up on me.' Despite her repeated complaints, Vichique Maya continued to work alongside her, and Doe claims she was subjected to ongoing sexual harassment during shifts. She filed a formal complaint with Soho House human resources in December 2025, only to be placed on indefinite leave while Vichique Maya remained employed. The investigation concluded in January 2026, with the finding that her allegations were not corroborated, prompting Doe to resign the following month.

The scandal has sparked concerns about the culture at Soho House, a global chain with 48 properties across 19 countries. Founded in 1995 in London as a hub for creatives, the club has become a magnet for celebrities and high-profile members, with annual membership fees reaching around $6,000. The company's recent decision to go private in a $2.7 billion deal led by MCR Hotels has added pressure to address internal issues. The lawsuit raises questions about whether the chain's elite reputation is masking a pattern of systemic failures in handling sexual misconduct claims, potentially risking the trust of its members and employees.

Soho House has not yet commented on the allegations, and no response has been received from Vichique Maya's attorney. The case could have significant legal and reputational consequences for the company, particularly as it navigates its transition to private ownership. The lawsuit also highlights the broader risks faced by employees in high-profile industries, where power imbalances and corporate inaction can perpetuate harm. With no corroborating evidence in the investigation, the outcome of the case may hinge on witness testimony and the strength of Doe's claims, which could set a precedent for future workplace harassment cases in the hospitality sector.