A homeless man accused of enjoying a lavish £1,936 meal at one of London’s most iconic hotels without paying has appeared in court.
Mikko Luistinen, 58, is alleged to have dined at the five-star Dorchester Hotel on Park Lane in May 2022, indulging in a luxurious meal complete with wine, before allegedly leaving without settling the bill.
Staff at the prestigious Mayfair hotel contacted police, and Luistinen was arrested shortly after the incident. However, after being granted bail, he failed to appear for his scheduled court date and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
He was eventually detained earlier this month.
Appearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, Luistinen wore a green jumper and matching trousers, speaking only to confirm his name and date of birth. However, proceedings were delayed due to the absence of a Finnish interpreter.
District Judge Briony Clarke expressed regret over the court’s continued inability to secure interpretation services, apologising and adjourning the hearing until Tuesday 22 April, when an interpreter is expected to attend via videolink.
Luistinen, who has no fixed address, is charged with obtaining services dishonestly and failing to surrender to custody. He remains remanded in custody ahead of the next hearing.
