A New York City dining experience turned horrifying when a Queens woman claims she bit into a human fingertip in a chicken wrap she ordered last year. The shocking allegation has led to a lawsuit against the Astoria-based restaurant, Create.
The Terrifying Bite
According to court documents obtained by TMZ, Mary Elizabeth Smith says she ordered a chicken wrap from Create in Astoria, Queens back in November 2023. But when she took a bite, she discovered what she claims was human tissue — a fingertip — in her mouth.
Smith alleges the incident caused “severe, catastrophic, and permanent injuries,” and she is seeking damages for the shocking ordeal.
Finger DNA Confirmed
Smith’s attorney, Robert Menna, said his office sent the fingertip to a lab, which confirmed it was human tissue from a woman.
The lawsuit alleges the restaurant was negligent, arguing that “you simply can’t serve food with human tissue.” Menna adds that, even if the finger came from a food processing plant or distributor, it’s still the restaurant’s responsibility to inspect food before serving it to customers.
Restaurant Owner Denies Claims
Create owner Teddy Karagianni has strongly denied the allegations, calling the lawsuit “ridiculous,” “disgusting,” and a quick cash grab.”
He explained that his female employees work as cashiers, not in the kitchen, making it “highly unlikely” that a fingertip could end up in food prepared at his restaurant. He added:
“A finger would have to be missed by several layers of workers — from delivery to cooking — for it to end up in a wrap.”
Karagianni also encourages Smith to take a DNA test, but maintains that the alleged fingertip did not originate from his staff. He’s even considering slander claims against Smith for the publicity around the lawsuit.
Smith, meanwhile, reportedly told the New York Post that she was “permanently traumatized” by the experience, adding that she had to undergo strong antiretroviral therapy to protect against any potential exposure to deadly diseases.
Multiple Layers of Responsibility
While the restaurant denies direct responsibility, Smith’s legal team emphasizes that restaurants are ultimately accountable for the food they serve. Menna told TMZ:
“Even if it didn’t come directly from an employee, it’s still their restaurant and food, and their duty to uphold standards.”
Smith is pursuing compensation for the physical, emotional, and psychological trauma caused by the alleged incident.
Public Reaction
The bizarre case has sparked a flood of reactions online:
- “I can’t even eat chicken without checking it now!”
- “This is nightmare-level dining.”
- “Wait, a finger in your wrap? That’s insane.”
Photos of the alleged fingertip were included in the lawsuit, further fueling media coverage and public outrage.
What’s Next
The lawsuit will continue through the New York court system, with Smith seeking damages for the shocking claim. Legal experts say high-profile food contamination cases like this are rare, but they can draw major media attention — especially when human tissue is allegedly involved.
Until the case is resolved, the restaurant maintains its denial, while Smith’s team insists the matter underscores the importance of food safety and accountability.
Would you ever return to a restaurant after something like this? Share your thoughts below!
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