Plaintiff Alleges Restaurant Violated Disability Laws

Brian Whitaker, a disabled individual, has filed a lawsuit against MGP XII Sunrise Village, LLC and Summer Kuk for alleged violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Unruh Civil Rights Act. The complaint was filed on February 25, 2026, in the Superior Court of California, County of Sacramento. Whitaker claims that during his visit to Teriyaki To Go in Citrus Heights, California, he encountered multiple barriers that hindered his access due to his disability.

Whitaker’s lawsuit highlights several accessibility issues at the restaurant located at 5439 Sunrise Blvd., which he visited in January 2026. According to the complaint, the sales and service counter exceeded the permissible height limits under ADA standards, making it difficult for Whitaker to complete transactions comfortably. Furthermore, he encountered non-compliant restroom facilities where obstructions prevented him from accessing essential amenities like sinks and coat hooks. The dining tables both indoors and outdoors also failed to meet accessibility standards by not providing adequate knee and toe clearance for wheelchair users.

The plaintiff argues that these barriers violate both federal and state laws designed to ensure equal access for individuals with disabilities. He emphasizes that these issues are not just minor inconveniences but significant impediments that cause discomfort and embarrassment. “These are not just small or ‘technical’ violations,” Whitaker asserts in his complaint, highlighting how such barriers impact daily life for people with disabilities.

Whitaker seeks injunctive relief compelling the defendants to remove all existing architectural barriers within a specified timeframe or provide alternative methods of accessibility if full compliance is not feasible. Additionally, he requests regular Certified Access Specialist (CASp) inspections to ensure ongoing compliance with ADA standards. The plaintiff also demands actual damages under the Unruh Civil Rights Act along with treble damages or statutory minimums for each instance of denied access.

Representing Brian Whitaker are attorneys Christopher A. Seabock and Nedra Weiss from Seabock Price APC based in Pasadena, California. The case is being overseen by Judge V. Bloxson under Case Number 2 Ris” 004 4 0G.