A north-west Sydney restaurant has apologised to customers after a customer complained that a rat was found in a woman’s salad.

Tatsuya West Ryde was open this afternoon, two days after the rodent was discovered on Tuesday.

Pictures posted in a Google review showed the slimy, lifeless pest the size of an adult hand.

“I’d eaten half of it at this point,” the woman claimed.

“What’s even more shocking is that they continued to serve food to other customers that weren’t aware.”

It was described as “unacceptable and disgusting” by another customer sitting near the woman.

There have been six individual reviews about the incident.

The restaurant apologised for the incident in a response to the woman’s one-star review.

“We sincerely apologise for this incident,” it wrote.

“The issue originated from a delivered salad box which we are currently investigating with our supplier and local food authorities.

“We are taking all necessary steps to prevent such incidents and appreciate your understanding.”

In a statement to 9News, the restaurant’s owner said the cause of an incident was under investigation.

“Google reviews are based on personal opinions, not verified facts,” they said.

“An incident did occur, and the cause is currently under investigation.

“We have responded to the incident appropriately and are continuing to follow up with additional measures.”

Ryde Council has been contacted for comment.