Gastrointestinal Outbreak linked to Thanksgiving meals from Kanishka Cuisine of India

1534 1st Avenue South, Seattle, 98134 Washington, United States

Update January 13th, 2026:
Public Health has completed its investigation into the gastrointestinal illness outbreak linked to Thanksgiving meals from Kanishka Cuisine of India in Seattle. A total of 43 cases were identified, with no hospitalizations or deaths reported.

Health officials did not identify a specific food item as the source but determined the illnesses were consistent with bacterial toxins, which can develop when food is improperly cooled or held at unsafe temperatures. The restaurant was temporarily closed on December 4, 2025, corrected food safety violations, and was allowed to reopen on December 10, 2025, after meeting required standards.

The outbreak is considered over.

Source: King County Government


Update December 12th, 2025:
Public Health officials reported an increase in the number of people affected, with 43 cases now identified. Following continued food safety violations observed during a December 4 follow-up inspection, Kanishka Cuisine of India was temporarily closed. During the closure, unsafe food was discarded and staff retraining was required.

A subsequent inspection on December 10 found that proper food safety practices were in place, and the restaurant was allowed to reopen. Laboratory testing from four ill individuals was negative for common gastrointestinal pathogens, further supporting the suspicion of illness caused by bacterial toxins. The investigation remains ongoing, though officials indicated the outbreak appears to be over.

Source: King County Government


December 12th, 2025:
Public Health officials are investigating a gastrointestinal illness outbreak linked to Thanksgiving meals from Kanishka Cuisine of India in Seattle. The outbreak, affecting 35 people, is suspected to be caused by bacterial toxins. The investigation is ongoing.

The illnesses were reported following the consumption of Kanishka’s “Fusion Thanksgiving Feast” between November 27 and 28, 2025. Symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting began appearing from November 28 to 29. While no specific food item has been identified as the source, the symptoms align with those caused by bacterial toxins, which can develop when food is improperly stored at room temperature.

The outbreak was discovered after multiple reports of illness were filed. Public Health officials conducted interviews with 16 affected individuals and inspected the restaurant on December 2. They identified several food safety violations, including inadequate cooling methods and improper food storage temperatures. Despite efforts to educate the restaurant on safe food handling, a follow-up inspection on December 4 revealed ongoing issues, leading to the temporary closure of the establishment. Laboratory tests on affected individuals ruled out common pathogens, but bacterial toxins remain a suspected cause.

Source: kingcounty.gov/en/dept/dph/health-safety/disease-illness/foodborne-illness-outbreaks/2025-outbreaks/2025-11-28-kanishka