Jersey Mike’s Shut Down After Shocking Health Violations in Delray Beach

455 NE 5th Avenue, Delray Beach, Florida, USA - A Jersey Mike’s location in Delray Beach found itself in the hot seat after a health inspection on June 17, 2025, led to its closure by Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation. This unfortunate turn of events underscores the importance of stringent health standards in food establishments, a core tenet of public health that we should not take lightly.

The inspection revealed a startling number of violations, with five categorized as „high priority,“ three as „intermediate,“ and four as „basic.“ Notably, small flying insects were discovered in various parts of the establishment, including alarming sightings on food items, such as bread and to-go paper bags. This paints a rather unsavory picture for customers hoping to enjoy a meal at the eatery, located at 455 NE 5th Avenue.

Details of the Inspection

The high-priority violations were indeed alarming. There were reports of live insects around hygiene-critical areas, like the hand sinks and food displays. Additionally, there was a “Stop Sale” issued due to loaves of bread being deemed unwholesome—a serious concern for any food retailer. Other violations included improperly stored cleaning supplies and temperature control issues with sliced tomatoes, which were supposed to be kept at 41°F or lower but were recorded at a concerning 59°F.

Beyond these high-priority issues, the intermediate violations raised eyebrows, particularly the absence of soap at the handwash sink in the ladies‘ restroom and food-contact surfaces on the soda machine that were soiled with food debris. Basic violations were not to be overlooked either; they included an unsightly accumulation of debris and rust on kitchen surfaces, culminating in a leakage problem at the triple sink. The need for proper sanitation practices was evident, as the inspection ultimately found that the quaternary ammonium compound sanitizing solution was not at the required strength.

A Reopening and Moving Forward

Fortunately for Jersey Mike’s, a reinspection the following day allowed the establishment to reopen, though lingering basic violations remained unresolved. This quick reopening serves as a reminder of the crucial checkpoint inspections play, as outlined by the Florida Department of Health’s Environmental Health section, which oversees food service establishments across the state. As detailed by Florida Health, these inspections are critical for ensuring compliance with food safety regulations that protect public health.

The Department conducts these inspections unannounced, allowing for an authentic assessment of conditions without prior warning. This practice helps to safeguard against potential outbreaks tied to foodborne illness, primarily attributed to lapses in handwashing, temperature control, and facility cleanliness. Regular training and internal inspections are vital for establishments seeking to ensure compliance and promote a healthy dining experience.

In light of this incident, it’s worth noting the broader implications for food safety regulations in our communities. Health department inspections, conducted by trained sanitarians, are not merely box-ticking exercises; they play an essential role in evaluating everything from food handling to facility maintenance. When diners choose to eat out, they expect not just a meal but assurance that their health is a priority. After all, who wants to discover that their favorite sandwich spot has been treading the line of safety?

As the dust settles on this incident at Jersey Mike’s, it serves as a wake-up call for both food service providers and patrons alike regarding the importance of clean, safely prepared food. Let’s hope this restaurant—and others across our vibrant community—takes the necessary steps to not just meet regulations but to uphold the trust of their loyal customers.

For more information about health department inspections and food safety practices, check out Boca News Now, Florida Health, and Enviro-Master.