News Summary
Central Florida’s food scene faces alarming shutdowns as multiple restaurants and a food truck are closed due to serious health violations. Reports reveal unacceptable standards and health risks, prompting questions about food safety in the region. Notable closures include Mr. Quick Restaurant, Hot Reggae Dogs 2, Como En Casa Restaurant, and Johnny Rockets, with varying responses during follow-up inspections. Health authorities urge stricter adherence to food safety regulations to protect public health in this vibrant culinary community.
Restaurants and Food Truck in Central Florida Face Shocking Shutdowns
Central Florida, a region known for its vibrant food scene, has recently experienced some unsettling news as multiple restaurants and even a food truck were shut down due to serious health violations from March 16 to March 22. According to the latest data collected by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, these closures raise questions about food safety standards in the area.
Mr. Quick Restaurant: A Shocking Discovery
On March 18, a well-known eatery, Mr. Quick Restaurant, located at 5615 W. Colonial Dr. in Orlando, was forced to close its doors after receiving a staggering 15 health violations. The list of violations was alarming, with reports indicating that employees were walking through sewage water just to use the wait station. Even more concerning was the discovery that the French toast mix, made with raw eggs, was stored above a container of pickles—definitely not your ideal food prep method. Additionally, salmon patties were found being held at incorrect temperatures, raising serious food safety alarms.
However, in good news for loyal customers, a follow-up inspection conducted the same day found only 10 violations, which were mostly minor, meaning that Mr. Quick was able to meet the necessary inspection standards to reopen.
Hot Reggae Dogs 2: A Sticky Situation
Another unfortunate closure occurred at Hot Reggae Dogs 2, located at 705 W. Colonial Dr. in Orlando, on March 19. This food truck was shut down due to 7 health violations, including signs of roach activity and food being stored at unsafe temperatures. Alarmingly, raw eggs were found to be stored directly above mayonnaise, which is a definite no-no in the food handling world. As of the latest updates, this food truck remains closed, leaving fans waiting for their favorite dishes.
Como En Casa Restaurant: A Few Too Many Violations
Como En Casa Restaurant, situated at 2960 W. S.R. 426 in Oviedo, faced even more severe scrutiny, being shut down on March 20 after racking up an astonishing 34 violations. Among the many shocking finds were instances of mop wastewater dumped directly on the ground and even larvae found inside a soda gun, which is enough to make anyone think twice about dining there! A cutting board near a cooler was also cited for being unacceptably soiled with food debris.
After a second inspection a day later, the restaurant was found to still have 7 violations, with only one being considered a high priority. However, they received a time extension for some food items and managed to prove they did not pose a threat to public health.
Rusty’s Seafood & Oyster Bar: Push and Pull
On March 17, another local favorite, Rusty’s Seafood & Oyster Bar in Cape Canaveral, was marked for closure due to 13 violations which included the presence of flying insects and a mold-like substance found on the ice machine—certainly not appealing to seafood lovers. However, a second inspection that day thankfully found no violations, allowing them to comply with the emergency order and resume operations.
Johnny Rockets: Rodent Woes
Last but not least, on March 20, Johnny Rockets located at 250 N. Atlantic Ave. in Daytona Beach had to shut down due to 12 serious violations, highlighting significant rodent activity. Yet, just like Rusty’s, a second inspection showed improvement with 9 violations, none of which were high priority, allowing them to meet the necessary standards for reopening.
A Look at the Bigger Picture
While these closures are alarming, it’s worth noting that Orange County recorded the highest number of warnings and complaints in Central Florida, totaling 36. Following closely were Volusia with 21, Brevard with 9, Lake with 8, Osceola with 8, and Seminole with 5. It seems that food safety is still a top priority, and efforts need to continue to ensure our favorite eateries meet all health standards. Chefs and restaurant owners play a critical role here, and food lovers are rooting for them to keep everything clean and safe. Let’s make sure our dining experiences are as enjoyable and safe as possible!
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Additional Resources
- Orlando Sentinel: 4 Central Florida Restaurants and 1 Food Truck Shut Down Last Week
- MSN: Inspections Lead to 4 Central Florida Restaurant Shutdowns Last Week
- Orlando Sentinel: 3 Central Florida Restaurants Shut Down Last Week
- Click Orlando: Popular Orlando Area Restaurants Closed Since September
- Fox 35 Orlando: More Orlando Eateries Closing
