Yes-definitely a red herring told by the employee at the Uni who probably took meals in Claudias restaurant. Using this story and diverting attention away from themselves.
I don’t think it was because there is no reason why he would make that up. That little nugget has really no relevance at all being 24 hours prior. Maybe he forgot....didn’t think it was relevant ....which actually it wasn’t because the police have got no further with it and have possibly questioned her acquaintance.