WEST CHESTER, PA — County health inspectors cited multiple food safety and sanitation violations during inspections conducted Friday at restaurants, bars, and food facilities across Chester County, according to reports released by the Chester County Health Department.
The inspections, which officials emphasized represent only a snapshot of conditions at the time of review, identified issues ranging from improper food storage temperatures and missing hand soap to plumbing leaks, sanitation lapses, and maintenance concerns.
At Giordano’s Pizza on East Cypress Street in Kennett Square, inspectors noted several violations during a follow-up inspection, including unlabeled squeeze bottles on the cookline, cardboard and dish rags lining kitchen shelving, and sauces held beyond the seven-day limit for foods prepared on site. Inspectors also found cut citrus garnishes stored at 54 degrees Fahrenheit instead of the required 41 degrees or below, and dirty espresso machine nozzles and milk frothers that required immediate cleaning.
Southbound BBQ Co. Commissary at the Elks Club of West Chester was cited for plumbing issues after inspectors observed water leaking beneath the sanitize compartment of a three-bay sink. The commissary kitchen was also directed to undergo a full deep cleaning beneath and behind food service equipment, sinks, dishwashers, and exhaust hood filters. Loose and detached tile base coves beneath sinks and dishwashers were also documented.
Teikoku Restaurant on West Chester Pike in Newtown Square received an extensive list of violations, including the absence of soap at multiple handwashing sinks, improper glove use by food employees, reuse of single-use food containers, and damaged food-contact surfaces such as a split wooden cutting board in the sushi station. Inspectors also cited blocked handwashing sinks, improper storage of fish wrapped in paper towels, dirty rice containers, and missing light shields near kitchen hoods.
At Tienda La Fortaleza on Railroad Avenue in West Grove, inspectors found obstructed handwashing sinks, improperly labeled eggs and repackaged foods, missing date markings on prepared items, and ceiling and shelving surfaces that were not easily cleanable. Some violations, including the lack of soap at a prep-area hand sink, were corrected during the inspection.
A follow-up inspection at VK Brewing Fairway Taphouse in Honey Brook raised concerns about wastewater disposal after officials determined the facility’s current operation no longer matched the approved septic system evaluation. Inspectors also required the installation of screens or air curtains on newly installed bi-fold doors separating indoor seating from an outdoor patio to prevent pest entry. The establishment was directed to submit plans by mid-February and complete installations before May 1.
Health officials reminded the public that inspections reflect conditions at a specific moment and may not represent an establishment’s long-term compliance history. Residents who observe unsanitary conditions or believe a facility requires investigation are encouraged to submit a confidential environmental health complaint at https://www.chesco.org/5843. Individuals who believe they became ill after eating at a food establishment are advised to call the health department directly at 610-344-6225.
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