Rodent and Roach Nightmare: South Florida Restaurants Shut Down Again!

15030 NW 7th Avenue, Miami - In the picturesque Sunshine State, where culinary delights blossom, a recent spate of health inspections has cast a shadow over several local eateries. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation has taken decisive action, ordering the closure of multiple South Florida restaurants due to alarming health violations.

Among the establishments facing scrutiny is May Fu in Miami, which remains shuttered after inspectors uncovered a live rodent creating chaos in its kitchen, along with extensive droppings scattered throughout the dining room and storage areas. Multiple inspections on June 25, June 27, and June 28 revealed persistent rodent activity that has left diners uneasy about the restaurant’s hygiene standards. The original inspection dated back to June 18, leading to the current predicament.

The Unpalatable Reality

Piccadilly Cafeteria in Hollywood is another prime example of the current health crisis. Closed on June 25, this establishment had 11 violations noted, including an unsettling mixture of live and dead roaches as well as unsanitary dishwashing practices. Surprisingly, there wasn’t even a certified food manager present during the inspection.

Meanwhile, China One in Davie, infamous for its recurring health issues, earned itself yet another shutdown, marking the third time it has faced such a fate. On June 24, inspectors discovered an unsettling number of both live and dead roaches nestled under cooking equipment, alongside a downright disturbing spider colony above the back door. The restaurant had previously been shut down on February 18, 2025, and again on February 24, 2024, for similar roach-related woes.

ENE Tasty Bakery Restaurant in Plantation also fell under scrutiny, ordered to close on June 24 for an array of 18 violations, which included pesky fly infestations and improper food temperatures. The findings pointed to a dire need for re-evaluation of sanitation practices across their operations.

Food Safety Under the Microscope

With such concerns taking center stage, it begs the question: how can restaurants better prepare for health inspections? According to the Florida Department of Health, effective food hygiene practices and proactive inspections can significantly reduce the risks of foodborne illness. The Department collaborates with food service establishments to promote compliance with the state’s standards, ensuring that consumers remain safe while enjoying their meals.

The Florida Administrative Code has seen updates since September 26, 2018, particularly in Chapter 64E-11, which focuses closely on food hygiene. The Department of Business and Professional Regulation regularly inspects restaurants, mobile food vehicles, caterers, and public food service events, ensuring they adhere to stringent safety regulations. For a more detailed look at inspection guidelines, businesses can refer to the comprehensive health inspection checklist provided by Webstaurant Store.

• Food Storage: Store food 6” off the ground and maintain separation from cleaning chemicals.
• Employee Hygiene: Ensure hairnets, regular hand washing, and clean uniforms for all staff.
• Sanitation: Maintain organized washing stations and apply appropriate sanitizing temperatures.

Inspectors recommend that establishments familiarize themselves with common health code violations and consult local health departments to ensure compliance. Conducting random self-inspections and engaging staff in safety practices can go a long way in bolstering a restaurant’s readiness for official scrutiny.

As these establishments lick their wounds and contemplate their next moves, it’s clear there’s much work to be done to ensure the safety of dining experiences in our vibrant communities. The path to redemption involves dedication, diligence, and a renewed commitment to food safety standards. After all, in the world of dining, diners deserve nothing less than excellence!

For further inquiries or to lodge complaints, patrons are encouraged to contact the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at 850-245-5520 or via email at FoodSafety@FDACS.gov. The fight for food safety won’t be won overnight, but each effort adds to a brighter and healthier dining scene for Florida residents.