Thiruporur/Chengalpattu: Two popular local restaurants, “TOVO” and “Thambivilas”, have sparked outrage after their operator, M/s. Foodworks Gourmet Private Limited, allegedly backed by one of the country’s biggest corporate houses, was accused of chronic rent default, illegal occupation and issuing threats to the landlord’s management.

Landlord M/s. Edumind Solutions Private Limited states that Foodworks Gourmet was inducted in June 2023 as tenant in the first‑floor premises “Thambivilas” (Plot No. 2) and the ground‑floor premises “TOVO” (Plot No. 3) at Thiruporur Taluk, but has repeatedly failed to pay rent on time despite continuous reminders. The properties were originally purchased from and developed by Bhoomi and Buildings Private Limited, which first inducted Foodworks Gourmet as tenant; even the original developer is now reportedly finding it extremely difficult to deal with the tenant’s conduct and refusal to vacate.

Even after a detailed eviction and termination notice and adjustment of security deposits against mounting arrears, Foodworks Gourmet is alleged to be continuing to run “TOVO” and “Thambivilas” from the premises without clearing dues or handing over possession, with members of its management allegedly resorting to threats when called upon to comply. Calling this “blatant harassment and bullying by a corporate‑backed tenant against a smaller landlord”, Edumind Solutions describes the occupation as illegal and unauthorised, cites severe financial loss and mental agony, and appeals for strict exemplary action against such wilful corporate defaulters while strongly cautioning the public, local businesses and potential landlords to exercise extreme care and due diligence before entering into any dealings with “TOVO”, “Thambivilas” or M/s. Foodworks Gourmet Private Limited in light of this dispute. Representatives of Foodworks Gourmet Private Limited could not be reached for comment at the time of going to press.