Turning the Tables on Food Safety Lapses
Hibachi Express: A Lesson in Compliance
Hibachi Express, located at 4409 114th Street, was the primary focus of the health department’s scrutiny, receiving a dismal score of 56 out of 100. The litany of violations ranged from improper food storage and handling to unsanitary conditions, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul.The inspection uncovered a range of alarming issues, including raw shrimp stored at unsafe temperatures, ready-to-eat proteins that were not hot enough, and cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods. Employees were also observed failing to adhere to proper handwashing protocols, further compounding the risk of foodborne illness.In response to the findings, the health department took swift action, shutting down the establishment for 24 hours to facilitate a thorough cleanup and the development of a corrective action plan. This decisive move underscored the gravity of the situation and the need for the restaurant to take immediate steps to rectify the identified problems.Despite the extensive list of violations, the report indicates that the majority of the issues were addressed and corrected during the inspection itself, a positive sign that the restaurant was willing to take the necessary steps to regain compliance. The reinspection process allowed Hibachi Express to reopen its doors, signaling a new chapter in its quest to maintain the highest standards of food safety.
Jimmy’s Egg: A Crack in the Foundation
The health department’s scrutiny was not limited to Hibachi Express, as another local eatery, Jimmy’s Egg at 4406 114th Street, also faced significant challenges. The inspection uncovered 22 violations, ranging from improperly stored food items to the lack of a certified food manager on-site.Among the priority violations were outdated food products, such as diced ham without a date mark and tomatoes held past their use-by date. Cleanliness issues were also a concern, with dirty knives found on a prep table and a cart blocking the hand sink. The report also highlighted the presence of medication stored alongside clean wares, posing a potential cross-contamination risk.While the violations were substantial, the report noted that most of the issues were addressed and corrected during the inspection, indicating the restaurant’s willingness to take immediate action to address the concerns raised by the health department.
Rudy’s “Country Store” and BBQ: Heating Up Compliance
Rudy’s “Country Store” and BBQ at 4930 S. Loop 289 was also scrutinized, with inspectors uncovering 17 violations. The primary concerns centered around temperature control and food storage, with sausage and pulled pork not maintained at the required minimum temperature of 135°F, and raw chorizo stored above ready-to-eat items, posing a cross-contamination risk.The inspection also revealed issues with the sanitizer solution, which was found to be either too weak or too strong, potentially compromising the effectiveness of the sanitization process. Additionally, the 3-compartment sink was not properly plumbed, and some containers used for food storage were damaged or broken.Similar to the other establishments, the report noted that most of the violations were addressed and corrected while the inspector was on-site, demonstrating the restaurant’s commitment to addressing the concerns and regaining compliance.
Cesiah’s Pandaseria: A Panda-monium of Violations
Cesiah’s Pandaseria, located at 1519 34th Street, was the final establishment under the health department’s microscope, with 16 violations identified. The issues ranged from improper food storage and handling to a lack of necessary equipment and documentation.The inspection uncovered eggs stored at unsafe temperatures, as well as raw beef thawing in a 3-compartment sink, rather than under running water or in a refrigerated environment. Additionally, the can opener was found to be dirty, and glass cleaner was not properly stored, posing potential contamination risks.Other concerns included the lack of sanitizing test strips and the presence of a plastic pitcher and steel wool in a hand sink, which are intended for handwashing only. The report also noted that the waste pipe from the hand sink was draining directly onto the ground, further exacerbating the sanitation issues.While the violations were significant, the report indicates that the majority of the issues were addressed and corrected during the inspection, demonstrating the restaurant’s willingness to take immediate action to address the health department’s concerns.
Redemption and Renewed Commitment
The series of health violations uncovered at these Lubbock restaurants underscores the importance of maintaining a steadfast commitment to food safety and sanitation. By addressing the identified issues and implementing corrective measures, these establishments have the opportunity to regain the trust of their patrons and demonstrate their dedication to providing a safe and enjoyable dining experience.The health department’s role in this process is crucial, as it serves as a watchdog, ensuring that local eateries uphold the highest standards of food safety. The temporary closure and subsequent reinspection process provide a clear path for these restaurants to rectify their shortcomings and emerge as shining examples of compliance.As these Lubbock restaurants navigate the road to redemption, it is essential that they remain vigilant in their efforts to maintain a culture of food safety. This includes ongoing staff training, meticulous record-keeping, and a proactive approach to addressing any potential issues that may arise. By embracing these best practices, these establishments can not only regain their standing but also set a new standard for food safety in the local community.