WEST CHESTER, PA — Chester County health inspectors cited several food establishments for food safety and sanitation violations during inspections conducted June 16, including temperature-control issues, handwashing deficiencies, pest concerns, and equipment maintenance problems.
The most extensive list of violations was reported at White Manor Country Club in Malvern, where inspectors documented multiple food safety concerns in the pool concession area and halfway house facility.
According to inspection reports, employees were observed failing to wash their hands before putting on gloves and beginning food preparation tasks. Inspectors also cited staff for wearing hand and wrist jewelry while handling food. Additional violations included a malfunctioning refrigeration unit, missing sanitizer test strips and food thermometers, unsanitary food-contact surfaces, leaking fixtures, missing paper towels at handwashing sinks, and flies inside food service areas after an exterior door was left open.
At Saladworks in Jenners Village Center in West Grove, inspectors found potentially hazardous foods being held above the required 41-degree temperature threshold in a refrigerated salad preparation unit. According to the report, several chicken products, turkey, and diced tomatoes registered temperatures ranging from 47 to 51 degrees and were discarded during the inspection. Management reported that a service technician would inspect the unit the same day.
A follow-up inspection at The Red Sombrero in Kennett Square identified several continuing issues, including a lack of readily available soap at a handwashing sink, employees consuming beverages in food preparation areas, and sanitation concerns involving cooking exhaust hood canopies. Inspectors also cited the facility for modifications to a handwashing sink that could increase the risk of cross-contamination.
La Jalisciense Grocery Store in Toughkenamon was cited for labeling and date-marking violations involving prepared desserts, including flan, tres leches cake, and gelatin products. Inspectors noted the items lacked ingredient labels and required date markings.
A complaint-driven inspection at Chophouse Grille in Exton found drain flies throughout the facility. Inspectors warned that the pest activity could create contamination risks and recommended enhanced pest-control measures, drain cleaning, and increased sanitation efforts. According to the report, the restaurant is already utilizing increased pest-control services.
The Chester County Health Department notes that inspections represent conditions observed at the time of inspection and may not reflect a facility’s long-term food safety performance.
The following establishments were reported to be in compliance during inspections conducted June 16:
- AXL Chocolate Endeavors LLC, Phoenixville
- Giant Food Store #6301, Thorndale
- Giant Food Store #6516, Kennett Square
- J Scott Catering at Phoenixville Foundry, Phoenixville
- Lione’s Pizza, Downingtown
- Lord’s Pantry of Downingtown
- Target T-2905 West Goshen, West Chester
- Toot Valley Farm LLC, Lincoln University
- West End Fire Co. #3, Phoenixville
- Wyncote Golf Club, Oxford
Residents who observe unsanitary conditions at licensed food facilities may submit a complaint through the Chester County Health Department. Individuals who believe they became ill after eating at a food establishment are advised to contact the department directly at 610-344-6225.
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