News Summary
The Chattanooga area health departments have released the latest food service establishment inspection scores, evaluating local restaurants based on rigorous health and safety standards. This year’s results show a range of compliance levels, from significant failures to high achievers. Notably, improvements have been noted, including a dramatic rise in scores for Yoki Buffet. The inspections highlight essential practices that ensure diner safety, and local residents are encouraged to voice any health concerns directly to the appropriate departments.
Chattanooga Area Food Establishments Inspection Scores Released
It’s that time of year again, folks! The local health departments in our beloved Chattanooga, as well as nearby Hamilton, Catoosa, and Walker counties, have rolled out their latest food service establishment inspection scores. Remember, these inspections happen twice a year, and establishments are graded on a 100-point scale based on specific criteria aimed at keeping diners safe and healthy.
What Do the Scores Mean?
It’s essential to understand that these scores represent a snapshot of each restaurant’s food safety practices. If an establishment scores below a certain threshold and fails to meet critical standards, it could face re-inspection. However, it’s crucial to remember that these scores don’t account for any on-the-spot corrections made during the inspection. So, some of the scores may seem a bit harsh if the establishment quickly addressed issues afterward!
How to Voice Your Concerns
Feel like you have something important to say about a food establishment? It’s easy to file health-related complaints with local health departments. Here’s how to contact them:
- Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department: 423-209-8110
- Catoosa County Health Department: 706-406-2030
- Walker County Health Department: 706-639-2574
This Week’s Scores – What’s Cooking?
The latest inspection scores for the week ending February 4, 2025, reveal a range of situations in our area. Here are some highlights:
- Sitar Indian Restaurant (200A Market St.) scored 70. They faced serious issues, like a management failure to control foodborne illness, multiple problems with onions, a dish machine that lacked sanitizer, and numerous food items that weren’t date-marked.
- Asia Buffet (6901 Lee Highway) followed closely with a score of 73, dealing with a blocked hand sink, improper food temperature holding, and uncovered food in cold storage.
- Then, we have The Best (150 Pearl Drive, LaFayette, GA) coming in at a score of 74. They lacked knowledge of proper temperature checks and hand-washing protocols, which is a big no-no, especially when raw chicken was above raw bacon!
- McAlister’s Deli (541 Signal Mountain Road, Suite 287) received a score of 86, while Twisted Confections (1809 Sunshine Lane) scored 87. Both seem to be doing pretty well!
- In the high scorer section, we have Gondolier, Zaxby’s, and Dunkin’ Donuts. Each achieved scores of 90+. Way to go, team!
Some Areas for Improvement
Other establishments are worth mentioning for their need to clean up their act. Pupuseria Marelyn #1 on Ringgold Road scored 73, struggling with improper date marking and inadequate sanitizer. On the other hand, Crust on South Broad Street scored a concerning 68, citing dirty surfaces and even rodent droppings, which is a little *too* close for comfort.
Survey Says…
It’s great to see that this week, no establishments received failing scores. In fact, a shoutout goes to Yoki Buffet on Paul Huff Parkway, which dramatically improved from a previous score of 33 to an impressive 88 on their follow-up inspection! Proof that hard work pays off!
Remember, just because a restaurant scores 73 doesn’t mean it’s failing! It’s all about striving for improvement and creating a safer dining environment for everyone. Here’s to enjoying great meals in a safe and healthy setting!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chattanooga Community Unites Amidst Challenges
Health Violations Report: Local Restaurants Face Scrutiny
Tennessee Schools Face Investigations Amid Childcare Safety Concerns
New Eateries Opening in Chattanooga: Raising Cane’s and Dutch Bros
Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Adulterated Onions & Improper Food Temperatures
- Wikipedia: Restaurant Inspection
- Local 3 News: Chattanooga Restaurant Almost Fails Inspection
- Google Search: Restaurant Health Inspections
- Times Free Press: Live Roach & Raw Meat Juices in Chattanooga Area
- Google Scholar: Food Safety Inspections
- Local 3 News: Evidence of Rodents in Chattanooga Restaurant
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Food Safety
- Times Free Press: Moldy Cheesecake & Raw Meat Issues
