WEST CHESTER, PA — Health inspectors fanned out across Chester County this week, uncovering a range of food safety violations at popular eateries, from improperly chilled foods and unlabeled chemicals to pest activity and restricted pesticides used in kitchens.
According to reports released by the Chester County Health Department, inspections conducted on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, revealed multiple violations at restaurants and food facilities in West Chester and Downingtown.
Officials emphasized that each inspection represents a snapshot in time and may not reflect an establishment’s long-term compliance history.
At Alessandro’s Pizzeria LLC on East Boot Road in West Chester, inspectors cited several temperature-related violations, including pizza prep foods and sauces held well above the required 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Garlic and oil and tomato sauce were measured as high as 66 degrees and 57 degrees, respectively, while foods in prep units were found at up to 50 degrees. Inspectors ordered that affected units not be used until they could properly maintain safe temperatures. Additional issues included food scoops stored directly in dry goods, an empty paper towel dispenser at a handwash sink, an unlabeled chemical spray bottle, and exposed raw wood in the mop sink area.
Brandywine Valley Bread, LLC on Lincoln Highway in Downingtown was cited after inspectors observed a restricted-use pesticide being applied inside the facility by a non-certified individual. The pesticides were removed during the inspection. Inspectors also noted a young child present in the food preparation area, improperly labeled prepackaged crostini, dust accumulation on a hood above a stove burner, and cooked carrots and butter left at room temperature. Those foods were promptly refrigerated after inspectors determined they had been out for less than two hours.
At Fiorello’s Café on East Gay Street in West Chester, inspectors reported light roach activity along the main cookline. The facility was already receiving pest control services and was instructed to continue weekly treatments, submit reports to the health department, and thoroughly clean and disinfect affected areas. Inspectors also cited the café for improper shellstock tagging, after raw clams and mussels were found in a bain marie without required identification tags.
Health department officials reminded the public that residents who observe unsanitary conditions can submit an Environmental Health Complaint at https://www.chesco.org/5843. Complaints are investigated confidentially. Anyone who becomes ill after eating at a food establishment is urged to call 610-344-6225 instead of submitting an online form.
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