URGENT UPDATE: Five restaurants across Central Florida were shut down last week due to serious health code violations, as confirmed by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. This crackdown occurred from February 15-21, 2023, raising immediate health concerns for patrons in the area.
The first closure took place at Orange Taiwan Express located at 3601 Columbia St., Orlando, on February 17. Inspectors discovered 20 violations, including a high-priority issue regarding rodent activity. A second inspection on February 20 revealed 12 violations, but all were resolved, allowing the restaurant to meet inspection standards.
Another troubling case unfolded at China Garden, situated at 2550 W. Colonial Dr., Orlando, which was shut down on February 19. Inspectors found a staggering 24 violations, with three classified as high priority, including the use of nonfood-grade bags in contact with food and roach activity. Subsequent inspections on February 20 still showed the same serious violations, but with an administrative complaint filed, the restaurant was allowed to reopen after addressing the issues.
The Chimi Spot at 3900 S. Goldenrod Road, Orlando, was also affected, being shut down on February 20 due to 11 violations, three of which were high priority related to rodent activity and improper food separation. A follow-up inspection revealed a decrease in violations, prompting a time extension for compliance.
In Satellite Beach, Brevard Alin’s Thai Street Food faced closure on February 19 after inspectors found nine violations, including a high-priority rodent issue evidenced by 103 rat droppings. A follow-up on February 29 confirmed improvements, allowing the restaurant to reopen with an administrative complaint.
Finally, PizzaVola CB at 5240 N. Atlantic Ave. #150, Cocoa Beach, was shut down on February 17, with inspectors identifying 16 violations, seven of which were high priority involving sewage issues and temperature abuse of food items. A subsequent inspection on February 18 cleared the restaurant of any violations, allowing it to resume operations.
Across Central Florida, a total of 2,605 violations were recorded during inspections, with Orange County reporting the highest count at 1,135, followed by Brevard with 395 and Osceola at 351. These alarming figures underscore the urgent need for vigilance in food safety.
As these restaurants work to rectify violations and restore consumer confidence, the community is urged to remain cautious and informed. The public’s health is at stake, and authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. Stay tuned for more updates as we follow this developing story.
