CHESTER COUNTY, PA — Health inspectors uncovered a range of food safety violations across Chester County during routine inspections this week, including a forced closure tied to a persistent cockroach infestation and multiple issues involving food temperature control and sanitation.
The Chester County Health Department released inspection reports for January 20, detailing conditions found at several licensed food establishments. Officials stressed that inspections represent a snapshot in time, but said the findings underscore the importance of strict adherence to food safety standards.
The most serious violations were cited at Sang Tong Thai on West Cypress Street in Kennett Square, where inspectors observed live and dead cockroaches in multiple life stages throughout the kitchen prep area. Dead roaches were found on countertops and shelving, and glue boards showed evidence of ongoing activity. The restaurant was ordered to close to allow for thorough cleaning and pest control.
Inspectors noted that management acknowledged a continuing roach problem and said weekly pest control treatments were underway. The facility was instructed to continue treatments and submit all pest control documentation to the Health Department. Additional violations included improper storage of cutting boards in a hand sink, uncovered food items in refrigeration, the presence of a can of Raid insecticide in the kitchen, and extensive cleaning deficiencies involving grease buildup, floors, drains, equipment, and shelving.
At Fox’s Pizza Den on Scarlett Road in Kennett Square, inspectors cited multiple sanitation and food handling violations. Pizza cheese and sauce were found sitting unrefrigerated on a counter, measured at 45 degrees Fahrenheit after two hours out of cold storage. Inspectors ordered the items returned to refrigeration and reminded staff that time and temperature control for safety foods must be held at 41 degrees or lower when not in active use.
Additional issues at the pizza shop included the absence of quaternary ammonia test strips for sanitizing sinks, improper air-drying of dishes on towels, a ripped exterior screen door near the restroom, and failure to properly clean and sanitize utensils every four hours during use. Inspectors also cited dirty walls near a hand sink and residue buildup around pizza equipment.
Simply Acai LLC, located on Carter Drive in West Chester, was cited for equipment and documentation issues. Inspectors found an inoperative refrigerator with ambient air temperatures reaching 51 degrees Fahrenheit, above the required 41 degrees, though no food was stored inside at the time. The unit was ordered to be serviced. The facility was also cited for inaccurate refrigerator thermometers and for failing to post required documents in public view, including its retail food license, certified food manager certificate, and most recent inspection report.
The Health Department reminded the public that all complaints about unsanitary conditions are investigated and kept confidential. Residents can submit concerns through the Environmental Health Complaint form at https://www.chesco.org/5843. Anyone who becomes ill after eating at a food establishment is urged to call 610-344-6225 rather than submitting an online form.
Officials said follow-up inspections will be conducted where required to ensure violations are corrected and public health protections are restored.
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