WEST CHESTER, PA — A new round of food safety inspections across Chester County has flagged a mix of routine housekeeping lapses and more serious sanitation concerns at several area restaurants, cafés, and institutional kitchens. While all inspections represent only a snapshot in time, the latest reports from December 1 and 2 offer a revealing look into how well-known establishments are managing food handling, hygiene, and regulatory compliance.
Bravo Pizza in Paoli received multiple violation notices, including expired whole milk, improper raw chicken storage above ready-to-eat foods, chipped shelving in the walk-in cooler, debris accumulation on non-food contact surfaces, cracked floor tiles, and cluttered basement storage in need of purging and repair. The facility also lacked a currently certified food manager. The Health Department noted that a certification application must be submitted before a license to operate can be issued.
Dunkin’ on Nutt Road in Phoenixville was cited for sanitizer buckets lacking detectable sanitizer, personal items stored with food and single-use items, and unclean food prep equipment, including microwaves, sinks, and storage surfaces. Additional issues included mold-like debris in drains, improperly stored single-use items, an open dumpster, chemical spray bottles stored with food equipment, and widespread floor-level debris.
La Verona in Kennett Square was cited for missing shellfish tag documentation, uncovered food pans stacked in refrigeration, improper dry-goods scoops, missing sanitizer test strips, and the need for cleaning of ice machine components, fan covers, and dishwashing areas. Inspectors also ordered the replacement of torn door gaskets, resurfacing of prep shelves within 45 days, and replacement of a wooden kitchen table with stainless steel within 30 days.
Oxford Health Center Food Services received several high-priority violations, including a high-temperature dishwasher that failed to reach the required sanitizing temperature. Until repairs are completed, all warewashing must be done manually in the three-bay sink. Additional issues included a blocked handwashing sink, a leaking water supply line, missing caulk behind a dishwasher, and the absence of a certified food manager.
Starbucks in Exton was directed to install a splash guard at a handwashing sink to prevent contamination, clean multiple food and drink prep surfaces, repair damaged cove base and worn seals, replace burned-out lights, and properly label soap containers. The store also lacked an employee with a valid Chester County Certified Food Manager credential.
County officials remind the public that inspection results reflect conditions at the time of review and are not always indicative of long-term performance. Facilities are expected to correct cited issues promptly, and many violations are resolved during the inspection itself.
Residents who observe concerning conditions at any food establishment are encouraged to file an Environmental Health Complaint. Those who become ill after dining at a restaurant should call 610-344-6225 for immediate assistance.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.