Controversy Hits Shahnawaz Ranch in Riverside County Over Allegations of Inhumane Slaughter Practices

A new pop-up restaurant at Shahnawaz Ranch in Perris, Riverside County, California, has come under fire following allegations of inhumane livestock slaughter. The establishment, which opened earlier this summer, drew approximately 250 visitors but is now facing serious scrutiny following a complaint from the animal rights group Animal Outlook.

Rafi Khan, the restaurateur behind the project, envisioned a cultural dining experience featuring Karachi highway-style barbecue and halal tacos on the 20-acre ranch. Despite a successful opening night that attracted food enthusiasts from cities as far as San Diego and San José, the operation faced a setback after Animal Outlook lodged a formal complaint with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in late June.

The organization's allegations arose from a livestock slaughter event held at the ranch during the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha. It claims that the animals were killed without the necessary federal inspection. The USDA launched an investigation into the matter in mid-July.

On July 18, shortly after the pop-up's opening weekend, Riverside County Sheriff’s Department officials issued a cease-and-desist order, citing the lack of permits for operating a food business and entertainment venue as well as complaints from neighbors regarding the event's scale and animal slaughtering activities.

Khan, who runs multiple food establishments in the area, reported that the incident has generated hateful backlash directed at him and his business. While he has not received any formal communication from the USDA, he has temporarily halted operations while working to conform to legal requirements.

The allegations gained further attention with details from veterinarian James Reynolds, who reviewed footage captured by Animal Outlook, suggesting that some animals suffered prolonged and painful deaths. Animal Outlook's legal director, Jareb Gleckel, noted that while ritual slaughter follows distinct regulations, there is less margin for error than in conventional facilities.

In response to the controversy, the Shahnawaz Ranch website has removed information about the pop-up restaurant, now featuring a form for visitors to collect updates on its status. Khan expressed hope for a resolution, stating, "We have to find a way to figure this thing out." As the situation remains fluid, the ranch's operations continue to be under scrutiny as it seeks to address the allegations.