Best and Worst Restaurant Inspection Reports in the Chattanooga Area for the Week Ending Feb. 27, 2024

Introduction

The latest round of restaurant inspections in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, Catoosa County, and Walker County revealed a mixed bag of results. The health departments inspect restaurants twice a year, grading businesses on a 100-point scale. Scores falling below 70 warrant immediate correction, with failure to meet critical standards leading to reinspection.

Highlight: Fulin’s Asian Cuisine Fails Inspection

The standout low performer of the week was Fulin’s Asian Cuisine located at 6011 Chesterton Way, Suite 103, with a record low score of 64. There were numerous violations noted by the inspectors, such as the person in charge failing to demonstrate control over foodborne illness risk factors during the routine inspection and the absence of an employee illness policy.

There was no observed hand washing by food prep employees throughout the inspection, and even the accessibility of the hand sink near the kitchen entrance was compromised due to the placement of carbon dioxide tanks. Additionally, all three hand sinks in the food prep area were without paper towels, and the dispensers were not functioning effectively.

On the inspector’s arrival, sliced raw pork was spotted on top of 50-pound bags of dry ingredients, showcasing improper food handling and storage processes. The cooler storage lacked order with no evidence of date marking temperature-controlled foods. Interestingly, the rice used for sushi was not time-stamped, and raw animal products were found thawing in a large bowl of stagnant water – a significantly flawed defrosting method.

The inspection also discovered multiple instances of live insect activity and numerous food items strewn on the floor in key areas such as the walk-in freezer, walk-in cooler, and kitchen.

Takeaways from the Report

The results of this inspection highlight the vital importance of rigorously adhering to critical health guidelines in providing safe dining experiences. The findings underline the need for restaurants to ensure sound food handling, adequate/instant accessible hand washing facilities, cleanliness, and pest control.

Residents can report health-related complaints to their respective health department: Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department at 423-209-8110, Catoosa County Health Department at 706-406-2030, and Walker County Health Department at 706-639-2574.

Though the failure at Fulin’s Asian Cuisine is a serious concern, it’s crucial to remember that results vary, and other restaurants within the area performed favorably during the same period. These inspections are conducted to ensure public health and safety and form an essential part of the restaurant and food service industry.