The good news? He is inviting them back for a free meal.
“I am relieved to be able to finally offer my fullest apologies to all those who were affected by the outbreak at the Fat Duck,” Blumenthal said in an e-mailed statement. “It was extremely frustrating to not be allowed to personally apologize to my guests until now,” he said. “I wish to invite them all to return to the Fat Duck at their convenience.”
"It was deeply upsetting to all of us that your enjoyment of The Fat Duck was not as we had intended it to be," he said in the letter. "I would be delighted if you would consider returning to The Fat Duck at a time that is convenient to you."
He adds: "If this is not appropriate to you personally, please contact us and we will address each individual situation with our insurers."
Chef Blumenthal wanted to write to the diners months ago, but the collective heads of his lawyers and insurance people almost exploded advising him against it.
The Health Protection Agency said in a report last month that they were hit by norovirus, also known as the "winter vomiting bug," (the what?) and that it was probably introduced by contaminated shellfish.
The restaurant, located in the village of Bray, west of London, reopened in March. Diners can choose from a variety of dishes, including a multi-course, at only $208 per person.
