More issues found at restaurant that had 110 violations

Summary

A Local 10 News investigation exposes the shocking state of China Buffet in South Florida, which has accumulated over 500 violations, including insect infestations, foul odors, and unsanitary conditions. Despite being ordered to shut down multiple times in 2024, the restaurant continues to face repeated violations with no sign of improvement. The report reveals poor hygiene practices, such as food being stored improperly and standing water in the kitchen. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, however, has not taken further action to permanently close the restaurant, sparking questions about the effectiveness of current inspection protocols.

Takeaways

• 😀 A South Florida restaurant, China Buffet, was cited with 110 violations during an inspection, raising concerns about food safety and sanitation.
• 😀 The restaurant owner claimed improvements were made after being shut down, but investigations found these claims were far from accurate.
• 😀 Inspectors have visited the restaurant 9 times since January, uncovering repeated violations in the kitchen and dining areas.
• 😀 Insects were discovered in the kitchen, highlighting the severity of sanitation issues.
• 😀 A foul odor was reported coming from a bathroom in the kitchen, which was filled with standing water and smelled like sewage.
• 😀 Kitchen equipment was found coated with grease and food debris, posing significant food safety risks.
• 😀 Fish was found sitting directly on the filthy floor, a clear violation of health standards.
• 😀 Despite the restaurant being ordered shut twice, it continued to operate and serve food after being given another chance to comply with regulations.
• 😀 The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation stated that they work with restaurant owners to help them meet health standards but do not have the authority to shut them down permanently.
• 😀 The ongoing violations at China Buffet have resulted in a total of 518 violations over multiple inspections.
• 😀 Local 10 News made it easy for the public to access restaurant inspection results via their smartphone app, ensuring greater transparency.

Q & A

What was the main issue exposed in the report?

The main issue exposed was a restaurant, China Buffet, which had 110 violations, including significant hygiene and safety issues, which prompted multiple inspections and closures.

How did the restaurant owner respond to the violations and the shutdown order?

The owner, Kevin, stated that after being ordered shut, the restaurant had made improvements and was 'great,' though the investigation revealed the opposite.

What were some of the violations found during inspections at China Buffet?

Some violations included insects in the kitchen, objectionable odors, grease-covered equipment, food stored at unsafe temperatures, and unsanitary conditions such as standing water in the kitchen bathroom.

How many times had inspectors visited the restaurant since the January shutdown?

Inspectors had visited China Buffet 9 times since the restaurant was ordered shut in January.

What was the total number of violations across multiple inspections?

A total of 518 violations were recorded, with repeated issues found during each inspection, indicating the restaurant's ongoing failure to meet health and safety standards.

What specific findings were reported during the most recent inspections?

Recent inspections found fish left on the filthy floor, unidentifiable and foul-smelling substances in the dishwashing area, and standing sewage-like water in the bathroom of the kitchen.

Why was the restaurant allowed to remain open despite numerous violations?

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation works with restaurant owners to bring them into compliance but does not have the authority to permanently shut down establishments. Local authorities have not provided clarity on why the restaurant has not been permanently closed.

What was the reaction when the reporter tried to speak with the restaurant owner?

The restaurant owner, Kevin, refused to speak with the reporter, even attempting to block the camera and not engaging with any questions about the restaurant's condition.

What did the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation state about their role in restaurant compliance?

The Department stated that it works with restaurant owners to achieve compliance and that it is not their responsibility to permanently shut down restaurants, despite the severe violations.

How does Local 10 News help viewers access restaurant inspection information?

Local 10 News provides an easy way for viewers to access any restaurant's inspection records statewide directly on their smartphones, making it easier for the public to be informed.