WEST CHESTER, PA — The Chester County Health Department reported multiple food safety violations at several establishments following inspections conducted Thursday, March 20, 2026, while also listing a number of facilities found in compliance.
Health officials said inspection reports reflect conditions observed at the time of inspection and may not represent long-term compliance.
At Barclay Friends in West Chester, inspectors cited violations including improper thawing of fish in vacuum packaging, a leaking dish machine, unclean juice dispensing nozzles, and a refrigerator operating above the required 41°F for food storage.
Big Phil’s Bar & Grill in Pottstown received numerous violations, including improper reheating of food, a malfunctioning dishwasher that failed to reach required temperatures, and unsafe cooling practices for cooked meats. Inspectors also cited the facility for lacking a required HACCP plan for vacuum sealing and sous vide cooking, as well as overall sanitation issues requiring a full kitchen cleaning.
At D & L Meats at Oxford Farmers’ Market, a follow-up inspection identified ongoing facility maintenance issues, including improper sink usage, plumbing deficiencies, and the need for additional equipment to support proper sanitation and air drying.
Guatemex Market Inc. in Oxford was cited for inadequate hot water at hand sinks, unlabeled egg cartons, improper storage practices, and use of hand sinks for purposes other than handwashing. Inspectors also noted a fire hazard related to an unauthorized cooking appliance.
Microtel Inn & Suites in West Chester was cited for multiple violations, including lack of proper handwashing practices, absence of soap at hand sinks, inadequate cleaning and sanitizing of food contact surfaces, and insufficient food safety knowledge among staff.
The department also reported that several establishments were in compliance with food safety regulations at the time of inspection, including
- Grocery Outlet Bargain Market in Parkesburg,
- Holy Ghost Church in Phoenixville,
- Just Desserts by Val in West Chester,
- Pentecostal Church Immovable Boulder in Oxford,
- RDS Micro Market at Barclay in West Chester,
- Smoothie King in West Chester, and
- Spring House Spirits in Parkesburg.
The health department encourages residents to report unsanitary conditions or concerns through its Environmental Health Complaint form at https://www.chesco.org/5843. Individuals who become ill after eating at a food establishment are advised to call 610-344-6225.
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