Introduction to Restaurant Inspections
State inspectors last week temporarily closed just one South Florida restaurant, with violations such as live roaches in the dining area and next to clean dishes, dead ones under the dishwasher, and a “can opener blade soiled with mold-like substance.”
The Sun Sentinel typically highlights restaurant inspections conducted by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation in Broward and Palm Beach counties. We cull through inspections that happen weekly and spotlight places ordered shut for “high-priority violations,” such as improper food temperatures or dead cockroaches.
How Inspections Work
Any restaurant that fails a state inspection must stay closed until it passes a follow-up. If you spot a possible violation and wish to file a complaint, contact Florida DBPR. (But please don’t contact us: The Sun Sentinel doesn’t inspect restaurants.)
Affected Restaurants
BROWARD COUNTY
Asahi Chinese & Japanese Restaurant
9240 W. Commercial Blvd., Sunrise
Ordered shut: April 28
Why: Six violations (one high-priority), including:
- Six live roaches “underneath clean ware-wash area by kitchen entrance,” “next to clean dishes,” “on floor in dining area” and “between flip-top and table on cook line.”
- Three dead roaches “under dishwasher” and “under crates of drinks by bathroom.”
- “Can opener blade soiled with mold-like substance.”
- “Multiple raw sushi [items] on menu not labeled.”
- Time/temperature issue involved cooked pork in walk-in cooler, which was not properly date-marked.
Status: Remained closed April 29 after a follow-up inspection found one high-priority violation. Reopened later that day after a third visit found no violations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the temporary closure of the Asahi Chinese & Japanese Restaurant due to severe health and safety violations serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in the food industry. Regular inspections by state authorities are crucial in ensuring that restaurants provide a safe environment for their customers.
FAQs
Q: How do I report a possible health violation at a restaurant?
A: You can contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) to file a complaint.
Q: What happens if a restaurant fails a state inspection?
A: The restaurant must stay closed until it passes a follow-up inspection.
Q: Can I contact the Sun Sentinel to report a health violation?
A: No, the Sun Sentinel does not inspect restaurants. You should contact the Florida DBPR instead.
